If you’re looking to up the ante in your skin-care routine, you might be ready for what beauty insiders have long gatekept: at-home lasers. You’re likely already familiar with the in-office versions found at dermatologist offices, aesthetics clinics, or laser spas like Skin Laundry and beyond, where treatments can be expensive and difficult to keep up with regularly unless you have both the time and the budget. As these tools use light energy to spur skin’s healing processes, they work wonders to boost skin tone, texture, and elasticity for visible improvement in fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots.
Fortunately, a small but growing category of FDA-cleared, expert-approved devices is making that same technology more accessible, allowing you to use a laser consistently, on your own schedule. The market is still far from saturated, with only a handful of options available, all at a premium price point.
Vogue’s Favorite At-Home Lasers for Anti-Aging:
While they are an investment, these tools can complement a daily skin-care routine and even in-office procedures. The best at-home lasers for anti-aging are more cost-effective than repeated professional treatments, require no appointments, and are always within reach. The trade-off is that results take longer and tend to be more subtle.
Ahead, we asked two board-certified experts everything you need to know about the best at-home lasers, and rounded up a few editor-approved options worth considering.
In This Story:
- Do at-home face lasers really work?
- What type of laser is best for at-home use?
- What are common mistakes with at-home lasers?
- How do you use at-home laser devices?
- Are at-home lasers safe for all skin tones?
- How We Tested
- Meet the Experts
Lyma Laser
- Why We Love It: If you’re not looking to break the bank, but are okay with giving it a light bruise, the traditional Lyma Laser remains a great option, following its 2020 debut. According to double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Yael Halaas, MD, it uses low-level “cold” laser technology to stimulate collagen and improve skin tone, texture, and fine lines, all without heat or downtime. “It’s painless and safe for all skin tones, but requires daily, consistent use (15 to 30 minutes) for gradual results.” In other words, it’s best suited for those after subtle, long-term rejuvenation, not anyone expecting immediate or clinic-level results.
- Editor’s Experience: “I’ve wanted a Lyma Laser since its inception, but only recently got my hands on one. Unlike most beauty tools that end up collectsing dust under my bed, I’ve actually been consistent with this one, mostly because it’s so easy to use. There’s no need for a conductive gel, although it does come with one that can enhance penetration if you want to use it, and you don’t have to commit to an app or long, drawn-out treatment session. I’ll use it during a cameras-off Zoom or while half-watching TV. It’s also surprisingly sturdy, which makes it easy to travel with. I’ve even used it mid-flight, partly because I’m addicted to the quiet satisfaction of feeling better than my peers.” — Iman Balagam, contributor
- Laser Type: 808nm near-infrared cold laser
- Specs: FDA-cleared, cordless, rechargeable battery
- Best For: Wrinkles, pigmentation, sagging, and skin elasticity
Nira Pro 3 Laser
- Why We Love It: According to board-certified dermatologist Debbie Palmer, MD, the Nira Pro is a non-fractional 1450nm laser best suited for targeting fine lines and uneven texture. What sets the Pro apart from the original, aside from the price tag, is its higher energy output and faster treatment time, which can translate to more noticeable wrinkle reduction over time. Dr. Halaas adds that it’s a good option for anyone looking for more visible anti-aging results without committing to in-office procedures, and the design allows for a bit more precision during use. That said, it’s not ideal for very sensitive skin, as some users report mild discomfort.
- Laser Type: 1450nm non-fractional, non-ablative diode laser
- Specs: FDA-cleared, 9 adjustable power levels
- Best For: Fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity
Tria FRX Skin Rejuvenating Fractional Laser
- Why We Love It: Unlike IPL devices, the Tria Laser is a fractional 1440 nm non-ablative laser, delivering more powerful, targeted results. Dr. Palmer notes that, compared to Nira, the Tria is fractional and delivers more heat, which can lead to erythema, so treatments are best planned with a bit of downtime in mind. It’s also not ideal for darker skin tones or anyone particularly sensitive to discomfort, as it tends to feel more intense (a prickly, warm sensation) than IPL. If you’re concerned, the brand recommends testing the device on your outer forearm at your intended treatment level before using it on your face.
- Laser Type: 1440 nm non-ablative fractional laser
- Specs: FDA-cleared, 3 treatment levels
- Best For: Fine lines, wrinkles, and dark spots
Lyma Laser Pro
- Why We Love It: Atop every skin-care aficionado’s wishlist is the Lyma Laser, which comes in both the traditional version and the Pro version (with a roughly $3,000 price difference between the two). According to Dr. Halaas the Lyma Laser Pro is a more powerful version with a larger treatment area and faster results, making it suitable for both the face and body. For which, the treatment lens is nearly four times larger, allowing it to cover areas like the stomach or thighs more efficiently. “It works the same way—a cold laser with no downtime—but covers more skin in less time,” she says, noting that it’s best for patients who prioritize efficiency and are committed to daily use. Given its price tag, however, it’s not ideal for beginners.
- Laser Type: 808nm near-infrared cold laser
- Specs: FDA-cleared, cordless, rechargeable battery
- Best For: Wrinkles, pigmentation, sagging, and skin elasticity
Nira Precision Laser
- Why We Love It: The most affordable option on this list, the Nira Laser is still expert-approved. According to Dr. Halaas, it’s a non-fractional laser designed primarily for fine lines and wrinkles, especially around the eyes and mouth. It uses gentle, heat-based stimulation and is recommended for daily use, just a few minutes per area. Due to its size, it’s best suited for targeted treatments on smaller zones, but not ideal for full-face use or deeper skin concerns.
- Editor’s Experience: “The Nira was the first at-home laser device I ever tested, and it’s since been passed down (stolen) by my mom, who now uses it daily. It’s incredibly easy to use; all you need is clean skin and a few minutes to spare. There are five power levels (the NIRA Pro has nine), so you can ease your way in, with each setting gradually increasing in intensity. I didn’t find any of the levels painful, but I have a relatively high tolerance. My only note is that, compared to the Lyma, it feels a bit more flimsy, and it’s noticeably louder.” — Iman Balagam, contributor
- Laser Type: 1450nm non-fractional, non-ablative diode laser
- Specs: FDA-cleared, 5 adjustable power levels
- Best For: Fine lines, wrinkles, and skin laxity
Everything You Need to Know
Do at-home face lasers really work?
According to Dr. Halaas, at-home laser devices for skin rejuvenation do work, just within limits. “They can stimulate collagen production, especially with consistent use over a few months,” she says. “But they’re much weaker than professional treatments, so results are slower, not permanent, and require maintenance.” Dr. Palmer agrees, noting that at-home facial lasers can “mildly improve collagen, fade brown spots, and reduce fine lines,” but typically require weeks to months of consistent use to see results.
What type of laser is best for at-home use?
According to Dr. Halaas, for skin rejuvenation, look for devices using either 808 nm (like Lyma) or 1450 nm (like NIRA), which are commonly used to target collagen and texture.
What are common mistakes with at-home lasers?
As with most things, user error is the biggest issue. Start by reading the instruction manual, as every device is slightly different. Common mistakes include using the wrong intensity for your skin type, treating tanned skin, overusing the device, and skipping protective eyewear. Another big one is expecting immediate results. These devices are a slow burn, and stopping too soon is often why people think they don’t work.
How do you use At-Home Laser Devices?
Each device varies, so follow the instructions exactly. That said, most don’t require much prep beyond clean, dry skin. No elaborate pre-ritual necessary.
Are at-home lasers safe for all skin tones?
It depends on the device. In general, Dr. Halaas notes they “work best on light skin with dark hair, and not as well on lighter hair or some darker skin tones,” which is why it’s important to check each device’s guidelines before using.
How We Tested
When we test and review a product, we take a holistic approach to deliver well-rounded product recommendations. First, we lean on Vogue’s vast network of experts—from board-certified dermatologists to celebrity estheticians—to gain professional acumen on the industry’s standout products, ones these specialists would actually use on their clients. We pair their expertise with our editorial best practices to curate the thoughtful edits you read on our site.
As it relates to at-home lasers, we selected the best based on the following characteristics: modality, laser type, usage, frequency, ease of use, and the skin-care concerns they address. To do this, we paired our own personal tests of each formula with expert guidance and reviewer insights to determine which we would recommend to you.
Meet the Experts
- Yael Halaas, MD, FACS, is a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon in New York City.
- Debbie Palmer, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist based in New York.
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