If you’re tired of shaving, razor burn, ingrown hairs, or constantly keeping up with appointments for professional treatments, you’re not alone. As we head into warmer weather and start reaching for shorts, swimsuits, and sleeveless tops, smooth skin suddenly feels a lot more important. A few months ago, I decided to try at-home laser hair removal with the JOVS device after previously investing in professional laser hair removal years ago…and honestly? It has been a game changer. In this post, I’m sharing my honest JOVS review, what results I’ve seen, what to expect, who it works best for, and everything women over 40 should know before investing in an at-home device. At-home IPL (intense pulsed light) devices can effectively reduce hair growth over time, especially for people with darker hair and lighter skin tones, though consistency and maintenance treatments are usually required.
Why Women Over 40 are Switching to At-Home Laser Hair Removal
Let’s be honest…after 40, convenience starts to matter a whole lot more. Time is money! Between busy schedules, family, work, travel, and everything else life throws at us, many women are looking for beauty routines that save time, simplify life, and actually work. That’s one of the biggest reasons so many women are making the switch to at-home laser hair removal.
For years, professional laser hair removal was the go-to option, but the cost of appointments, scheduling, maintenance visits, and travel time can add up quickly. Many women are realizing they can get noticeable hair reduction from the comfort of home for a fraction of the long-term cost. Convenience and affordability are consistently cited as major reasons people choose home devices over professional treatments.
Another big reason? Goodbye razor burn and constant shaving. As skin matures, it often becomes more sensitive and irritation-prone. Frequent shaving can lead to razor burn, bumps, dryness, and ingrown hairs—especially in areas like the underarms and bikini line. Many women love that at-home devices help reduce how often they need to shave over time.
Women over 40 are also prioritizing low-maintenance beauty. Instead of weekly waxing appointments or daily shaving, many are looking for long-term solutions that make getting ready easier. While at-home devices are not usually a one-and-done treatment and do require consistency, many users report smoother skin and slower regrowth after several weeks of use.
And honestly? There’s something really empowering about being able to do treatments on your own schedule—in pajamas, in your bathroom, without appointments or awkward salon visits!
The key is having realistic expectations. At-home laser hair removal is more of a hair reduction tool than instant permanent hair removal. But for many women over 40, the convenience, smoother skin, and reduced maintenance make it feel completely worth it.
How JOVS Technology Works
JOVS Venus Pro II IPL Hair Removal device uses IPL technology. But a few things stand out compared to other IPL devices on the market…
- It has a Skin Rejuvenation Mode- Not only does it remove hair, but it also helps smooth the skin.
- 12.5cm sapphire cooling technology- The quick cooling sensation helps reduce discomfort and soothe the skin.
- 0.5-second flash time- It has a fast zapping time which allows you to do your treatment faster and more effectively.
- Adjustable wand head- The adjustable head makes it easy to hold and maneuver to different angles and areas on your body.
- Adjustable strength- You can choose the strength at which you want the flash to work. It ranges from 1-6 in intensity.
Laser vs. IPL: What’s the Difference?
If you’ve been researching at-home laser hair removal, you’ve probably noticed the terms laser and IPL being used interchangeably…but here’s the truth: They are not the same thing.
While both are designed to reduce unwanted hair over time, they work a little differently and can give different results depending on your skin tone, hair color, and goals. The biggest difference comes down to the type of light technology they use.
Laser Hair Removal
Laser hair removal uses one concentrated wavelength of light that precisely targets the pigment (melanin) in the hair follicle. Because the light is more focused, laser treatments tend to be more targeted and often work faster with fewer sessions…especially when done professionally. Laser treatments are also generally considered more effective for a wider range of skin tones, depending on the type of laser being used.
Pros of laser hair removal:
✔ More targeted treatment
✔ Often faster results
✔ Can work on a wider range of skin tones
✔ May require fewer sessions overall
Cons:
✖ Professional treatments can be expensive
✖ At-home laser devices tend to cost more
✖ Some devices can feel more intense during treatment
IPL (Intense Pulsed Light)
IPL stands for Intense Pulsed Light, and despite what many people think, it’s not technically a laser. Instead of using one focused beam of light, IPL uses a broad spectrum of light (more like a camera flash) to target pigment in the hair follicle. IPL devices are extremely common in the at-home hair removal world because they tend to be more affordable and easier to use.
Pros of IPL:
✔ More budget-friendly
✔ Common in at-home devices
✔ Easy to use at home
✔ Great option for convenience
Cons:
✖ Usually requires more sessions
✖ Results may take longer
✖ Often works best on lighter skin tones with darker hair
✖ May not be ideal for very dark skin or very light hair colors.
So Which One Is Better?
It really depends on your goals. If you want the most powerful, targeted results, professional laser treatments often win. But if your goal is convenience, lower cost, and being able to treat yourself at home, IPL can still be a fantastic option…especially if you’re consistent. Many women over 40 love at-home IPL because it helps reduce shaving, razor burn, and maintenance without salon appointments.
The biggest thing to remember? Consistency matters more than perfection. Whether you choose laser or IPL, hair reduction happens gradually over time…not overnight.
Pros and Cons of At-Home Devices
If you’ve been considering at-home laser hair removal, you’re probably wondering: Is it actually worth it?
The truth is, at-home devices can be an amazing investment for the right person…but they’re not perfect. Like most beauty tools, there are pros and cons to consider before you buy. For many women over 40, the convenience alone makes them feel completely worth it. Dermatologists generally agree that at-home devices can reduce hair growth over time, but results vary depending on consistency, skin tone, and hair color.
Pros of At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices
✔ Convenience
One of the biggest perks is being able to do treatments on your own schedule…no appointments, no driving across town, and no awkward salon visits. You can literally do treatments in pajamas while watching Netflix! Many women love the flexibility of treating areas like underarms, legs, and bikini line from home.
✔ Saves Money Long-Term
Professional laser hair removal can cost hundreds (sometimes thousands) of dollars over multiple sessions. While at-home devices require an upfront investment, many people find them more affordable over time compared to regular waxing or professional maintenance appointments.
✔ Less Shaving + Fewer Razor Bumps
Many users notice slower regrowth, finer hair, and less irritation over time. If you deal with razor burn, ingrown hairs, or sensitive skin…especially around the bikini line or underarms…this can be a huge benefit.
✔ More Comfortable Than Professional Treatments
Because at-home devices use lower energy than professional lasers, many people find them more comfortable and less intimidating. Some newer devices even include cooling technology to make treatments feel gentler on the skin.
Cons of At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices
✖ Results Take Time
This is probably the biggest thing to know:
At-home laser hair removal is not an overnight fix.
Most devices require several weeks of consistent use before seeing noticeable reduction, and maintenance sessions are often needed to keep results up. Hair grows in cycles, so patience matters.
✖ Not Ideal for Everyone
Most at-home IPL devices work best on lighter skin tones with darker hair because they target pigment in the hair follicle. Blonde, gray, white, or red hair often doesn’t respond as well. Some darker skin tones may also need extra caution depending on the device.
✖ Less Powerful Than Professional Treatments
At-home devices are intentionally less powerful for safety reasons. That means they’re often slower and may not give the same level of hair reduction as in-office laser treatments. Think hair reduction, not always complete hair removal.
✖ Consistency Is Required
Skipping treatments or stopping too soon can slow progress. These devices work best when you follow the recommended schedule consistently for several weeks or months.
So… Are At-Home Devices Worth It?
If your goal is convenience, smoother skin, less shaving, and long-term hair reduction without salon appointments, many women find them absolutely worth it.
But if you want fastest possible results or complete hair removal, professional laser treatments may still be the better option.
For me, the biggest win has simply been this: Less maintenance. Less razor burn. More convenience. And honestly, that feels like a pretty big beauty win after 40.
How to Use JOVS Safely and Effectively at Home
It’s really easy! Here’s a step-by-step how to use the device at home:
- Start with clean, shaved, and dry skin.
- Put on the safety goggles to avoid harming your eyes
- Plug in the device and power it on.
- Choose the level of strength (1-6).
- Choose the mode you want to flash.
- Hold down the button so it flashes automatically and start zapping away!
Results to Expect After Multiple Sessions
When I first started using the JOVS Venus Pro II IPL Hair Removal, I used it almost every day for 2 weeks. I had a trip to Mexico on the horizon and I wanted to be hair-free! Once I started seeing change in my hair growth (after about 2-3 weeks) I only used the device a few times a week to keep up.
As with all skincare products and devices, consistency is key! After using the device for several months, I can skip shaving my under arms and bikini lines for days and weeks at a time! I no longer have razor burn and awkward bumps. I LOVE it!! It’s one of those things that you don’t know you need until you have it. Now, I can’t imagine living without it!
I had purchased a cheap laser device on Amazon several years ago but this one is so much better! I especially love the cooling effect and the fast time.
Read my full review HERE!
JOVS Discount Code
Any skincare device is quite an investment. So it’s always nice when you can save a little money! Save $100 on your JOVs VENUS PRO II LASER HAIR REMOVAL with this discount code at checkout: JOELLEN100
FAQs
- Does at-home laser hair removal actually work? Yes…for many people, at-home laser hair removal can significantly reduce hair growth over time. Most at-home devices actually use IPL (intense pulsed light), which targets pigment in the hair follicle to slow regrowth. Results are usually gradual and require consistency. Many users notice finer, slower-growing hair after several weeks of treatment.
- How long does at-home laser hair removal take to work? Most people begin noticing slower hair growth within a few weeks, but visible results typically improve after 6–12 weeks of consistent use. Because home devices use lower energy than in-office treatments, patience and consistency are key.
- Does the JOVS hair removal device hurt? One thing many people like about the JOVS device is its built-in cooling technology, which helps make treatments more comfortable. Most users describe the feeling as warm or mildly tingly rather than painful…especially compared to waxing or professional laser sessions.
- Who is at-home laser hair removal best for? At-home IPL devices generally work best for people with darker hair and lighter skin because the technology targets pigment in the hair follicle. Very light blonde, gray, white, or red hair may not respond as well. Some darker skin tones may also need extra caution depending on the device and settings.
- Do you have to keep using at-home laser hair removal? Usually, yes. While results can last for months or even years for some people, occasional maintenance treatments are often needed to keep hair growth minimal over time. Think of it more like maintenance than a one-and-done treatment.
- Is at-home laser hair removal worth it? If you’re tired of shaving, razor burn, waxing appointments, or the cost of professional laser treatments, many people find the investment worth it…especially for commonly treated areas like the legs, underarms, and bikini line. Convenience is one of the biggest benefits.
At the end of the day, at-home laser hair removal isn’t a magic overnight fix…but for me, it has absolutely been worth the investment. I love the convenience of doing treatments at home, avoiding razor burn, and not having to schedule expensive maintenance appointments. Like most beauty treatments, consistency matters, and results take time…but if smoother skin with less maintenance sounds appealing to you, the JOVS device may be worth considering. Just remember: the best beauty routines are the ones that make your life easier and help you feel more confident in your own skin. Many experts note that home IPL devices work best when used consistently over several weeks and typically require maintenance treatments to maintain results.
Here are other blogposts that you might enjoy:
- My Summer Waterless Skincare Routine (Oliveda AM + PM Guide)
- What’s the Difference Between Bronzer and Contour
- How to Apply Olive Rose Skin Tint (Without Settling Into Lines)
- Contour for Mature Faces: A Simple Guide
- Effortless & Elegant Easter Dresses for Women Over 40
- How to Apply Cream Blush for Women Over 40 (Using Olive Rose Blush Glow)
- Waterless Beauty Before You Buy: What You Need to Know
- Laser Hair Removal at Home: Does the JOVS Device Actually Work?
About the Author
JoEllen is a licensed esthetician, certified makeup artist, and certified John Maxwell coach, speaker, and trainer. She works with women helping them look and feel confident. She loves teaching women simple beauty techniques so they can feel empowered to try it at home. Her motto is that when you look and feel good, you do good!
*This post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase an item featured in this post, I get a small portion from the sale. Thank you!
