Silk'n is an IPL (intense pulsed light) device cleared by the FDA for permanent hair reduction that is designed for use on the body (excluding the genitals), but can be used on the face from the cheekline down. It requires multiple treatments to have the best results.

Read about their others model Silk'n SensEpil and Silk'n Flash & Go both with built-in skin sensors.

How Does Silk'n Work?

This device applies Home Pulsed Light™ (HPL™) technology, using optical energy to disable hair growth.

The hair shaft needs to absorb this light energy and then transform it to heat.

Who Can Use It?

Those with a naturally dark skin color cannot use Silk'n because burns, blisters and/or changes in skin color can result.

Dark hair responds the best to these light-based treatments. Shades of brown may also respond to the system, but typically require more treatments. Because the light energy is targeting dark pigment (melanin)- white, gray, or blond hair will not benefit from using the system. Red hair isn't totally ruled out here, but possibly may see a reduction of hair.

Does Silk'n Hurt?

The feeling can be likened to a slight sensation of heat. Everyone has their own tolerance to pain/discomfort, but other factors come into play. You might feel more pain if you have sensitive skin, or very dark or thick hair. The first time using the device is usually the most uncomfortable, and then often subsides with further uses for most people.

Silk'n has five settings that you can adjust to your sensitivity.

Using the highest setting will also produce more heat, which often brings better results.

How Effective Is It?

Hair grows in different stages: growing, resting and shedding. Because all of the hair isn't on the same stage at any given time, multiple treatments are needed to get the hair in the growth phase, for the system to be most effective. The company recommends treatments spaced every two weeks for the first three to four uses. If hair has grown back after these first three to four treatments, then additional treatments should be given until the desired results are achieved.

According to the Silk'n hair removal clinical study of 150 females using the hair removal system these were the average hair reduction results after six months "41% in the underarms, 54% on the legs, 43% in the bikini area and 52% on the arms."

Reviews:

• My personal experience using Silk'n on my legs and underarms in Part I.

How Much Does It Cost?

The suggested retail price was $800 when first released. On April 13, 2009 the price was reduced to $599. It currently retails for $499. A lamp cartridge that comes with the system has a life of about 750 shots. "That should cover one treatment session for two legs, two arms, two underarms and bikini line for an average body size" according to the instructions booklet. The control panel displays warning lights when you are close to or have reached the 750 shot limit. Replacement lamp cartridges retail for $49.
SensEpil retails for $499 and replacement cartridges for $49. Flash & Go retails for $299 and replacement cartridges, $40.

Where Can I Get Silk'n?

on the original system or get Silk'n SensEpil (buy direct).