IPL Hair Removal Device Review UK 2026
Quick verdict
Score: 8.7/10
Best for: Long-term hair reduction at home, on light-to-medium skin with dark hair
Not for: Very dark skin, or light/grey/red hair - IPL needs dark hair on lighter skin to work, and it's a cosmetic device, not permanent removal or a medical treatment
Bottom line: A practical Other for gradual, long-lasting hair reduction - used correctly and consistently.
The Other provides a simple at-home approach to long-term hair reduction, with results depending on how it is used. The device is described only as an Other, so performance details are not stated. A realistic expectation is appropriate, with consistent use important and suitability tied to the correct skin and hair tones, as IPL is designed to target dark hair on light-to-medium skin.
Pros
- Long-term hair reduction from home, cheaper than salon courses over time
Cons
- Only suits light-to-medium skin with dark hair - not dark skin or light/grey/red hair
- Gives long-term reduction, not instant or total permanent removal
- Needs a full course plus top-ups, and consistent use over weeks
How It Works and Results
IPL hair removal devices use pulses of light to target pigment in the hair. The resulting heat is intended to damage hair follicles to reduce future regrowth over time, rather than remove hair instantly. Results vary depending on factors such as hair thickness, the timing of growth cycles, and how consistently sessions are carried out. Some people notice smoother skin after several rounds, while others see partial reduction. It is also common for treated hair to shed gradually instead of disappearing immediately.
Skin Tone and Hair Colour Suitability
Skin tone and hair colour suitability largely determine how well IPL hair removal can work. IPL targets pigment in the hair with pulses of light, and the heat is intended to damage follicles over time rather than remove hair instantly. In general, IPL works best on darker hair because more pigment absorbs the light, and results may be weaker on very light, red, grey, or white hair. On the skin side, darker or more tanned skin can absorb more light and increase the risk of irritation, so careful patch testing is important. A user should assess both hair shade and baseline skin tone before committing.
Intensity Levels and Flashes
They should start by understanding how the device's intensity levels and flashes work together, because correct settings affect both results and comfort. For IPL hair removal devices, intensity is typically adjusted to match skin response, while flashes deliver pulses during each treatment pass. A user generally begins at a lower level, checks for mild warmth, and then increases only if the skin remains calm after the session. If redness persists, the setting is likely too high, and the device should be used less aggressively next time. Consistency matters, as skipping or rushing flashes can reduce effectiveness.
Body Areas and Attachments
After choosing suitable intensity levels and managing the flash rhythm, the next factor is where the device will be used and what attachments, if any, are meant for those zones. An IPL routine is typically matched to the manufacturer's allowed body sites, because results and suitability can vary by region. The device should be checked for facial use, underarms, legs, arms, bikini lines, and any other supported areas. Some units include removable heads designed for different body contours, which can help with reach and contact. If attachments are not provided, more care is needed on curved areas to maintain good skin contact.
Comfort, Speed and Safety
Comfort is influenced by skin preparation, timing, and ensuring the skin is dry and clean before use. For safety, stop use if burning or strong redness occurs and watch for signs of irritation. Avoid using the device on broken or tanned skin, and do not treat areas that should be excluded, including the eyes and the genitals. Speed typically improves when technique is consistent, since smoother gliding and more even coverage can reduce the need to repeat passes, although areas with changing hair density may take longer. Overall, careful pacing helps reduce missed spots and lowers the chance of discomfort.
Who Is This IPL Device For?
Who the bareSilk Other is for depends on how closely the person can match the device's intended use and skin requirements, because IPL works best when skin and hair characteristics fall within the safe limits. For many buyers, it suits those who want home hair reduction and can follow the manual's skin checks and use steps. It may be less suitable for people with skin conditions, active irritation, or uncertain hair-colour match. It is also aimed at users comfortable with repeat treatments over time, rather than expecting one-off results. IPL is designed for long-term reduction by targeting pigment in dark hair on light-to-medium skin. It does not work on very dark skin, and it will not be effective on light, grey, red, or white hair. This is a cosmetic product, not a medical treatment, so it is important to avoid the eyes, broken or irritated skin, tattoos, moles, and tanned skin, and to avoid the genitals. A patch test is recommended, and a doctor should be consulted if pregnant, on medication, or with a skin condition.
Where to Buy in the UK
Where can an Other be bought in the UK? Shoppers typically find options through mainstream retailers such as Amazon UK, John Lewis, Currys, AO, and Argos, alongside online marketplaces that list similar IPL hair removal devices from multiple sellers. Beauty-focused sites may also stock them, and some brands sell direct through their own UK web pages, which can simplify returns. Buying in-store can make it easier to review the build and packaging, although stock can vary by location. Online buying is generally more convenient, but item details are not always presented clearly, so it helps to compare key information and check returns policies for the specific seller.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Other actually work?
Used regularly and correctly, IPL like the Other can give long-lasting hair reduction - hair grows back finer and sparser over a course of treatments, with top-ups to maintain it. It works best on light-to-medium skin with dark hair, and results vary from person to person. It's a cosmetic device, not a one-off permanent removal.
Is IPL permanent hair removal?
IPL gives permanent hair REDUCTION rather than total permanent removal - most people see far less, finer regrowth after a full course, then use occasional top-up sessions to keep it that way. Calling it "permanent removal" overstates it; "long-term reduction" is more accurate.
Who can use the Other - does it work on all skin tones?
IPL works by targeting the pigment in dark hair, so it suits light-to-medium skin with dark hair best. It does NOT work on very dark skin (risk of burns) or on light, grey, red or white hair (no pigment to target). Always check the brand's skin-tone chart and do a patch test first.
Does the Other hurt?
Most people feel a warm, mild snapping sensation rather than real pain. Start on a lower intensity and build up. If it's painful, lower the setting - and never use it on irritated, broken or recently tanned skin.
How long until you see results with the Other?
Most people do a treatment every week or two for the first 4-12 sessions, with visible reduction usually after several sessions, then move to occasional top-ups. Consistency matters - skipping sessions slows progress. Results and timelines vary by person.
Is the Other safe to use, and where should you avoid?
Used per the instructions on suitable skin, IPL is generally well tolerated, but it's a cosmetic device - not a medical treatment. Avoid the eyes and the area around them, broken or irritated skin, tattoos and moles, and don't use on the genitals. Patch test first, and if you're pregnant, on certain medications, or have a skin condition, check with a doctor. This is general guidance, not medical advice.