2020 Trends in Hair Removal: What Buyers Should Know
A guide to 2020 hair removal trends, covering at-home IPL devices, safety certifications, and what UK shoppers should prioritize.
The hair removal landscape shifted dramatically in 2020, with a clear move away from traditional salon appointments and toward long-term, at-home solutions. For UK buyers, this meant navigating a flood of new devices and techniques while also paying closer attention to safety standards and value for money. Whether you are a first-time buyer or looking to upgrade your routine, understanding the key trends of that year will help you make a smarter, safer purchase.
The Rise of At-Home IPL and Laser Devices
The most significant trend of 2020 was the explosive growth of at-home Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) and laser hair removal devices. With salons closed for extended periods, consumers sought professional-level results from their own bathrooms. Unlike shaving or depilatory creams, these devices offer a semi-permanent reduction in hair growth by targeting the follicle with light energy. Buyers in the UK were drawn to models with multiple intensity levels and skin-tone sensors, which made the technology feel safer and more accessible. When choosing such a device, look for one with a long-lasting lamp life and a treatment window that matches your routine, as these factors directly impact long-term cost-effectiveness.
Understanding CE, UKCA, and FCC Marks
As the market became saturated with devices, understanding certification marks became more critical than ever. In 2020, any electrical product sold in the UK had to display the CE mark, indicating conformity with EU safety, health, and environmental requirements. However, with the transition period ending, many manufacturers began preparing for the UKCA (UK Conformity Assessed) mark, which now applies to most goods sold in Great Britain. For those buying imported devices, the FCC mark (though a US standard) was also a useful indicator of electromagnetic interference safety. A genuine device will list these marks on the box or in the manual—if a product lacks them, it is likely a non-compliant import, which may not be covered by your consumer rights under the Consumer Rights Act 2015.
The Push for Sustainability and Ethical Choices
UK consumers in 2020 became increasingly conscious of the environmental impact of their beauty routines. The sheer waste of disposable razors and single-use waxing strips led many to seek out recyclable and refillable alternatives. This drove a trend toward brands offering replaceable heads for electric razors and plastic-free hard waxes. Additionally, there was growing scrutiny of animal testing within the sector. Savvy buyers began checking for the Leaping Bunny or Cruelty-Free International approvals, ensuring that their chosen products were not tested on animals at any stage of production. This ethical awareness was no longer a niche concern but a standard expectation for mainstream retailers like Boots and Superdrug.
Shifting Aesthetics and Consumer Expectations
Finally, 2020 saw a definitive shift in aesthetic preferences, largely accelerated by lockdown life. With less pressure for constant, bare-skin grooming, many people embraced a more natural, "low-maintenance" approach. This did not mean abandoning hair removal but rather prioritising comfort over perfection. Consumers began seeking out sensitive-skin formulations, fragrance-free creams, and gentle exfoliating tools to prevent ingrown hairs. Expectations also changed in terms of transparency: buyers wanted clear guidance on hair colour and skin tone compatibility, as IPL devices are not effective on all hair colours. Brands that provided honest, detailed guides and responsive customer service outperformed those relying on exaggerated claims. In conclusion, the defining trends of 2020—at-home technology, rigorous safety standards, ethical sourcing, and a realistic approach to results—reshaped the UK hair removal market. By focusing on certified devices from reputable brands, understanding the importance of compliance marks, and aligning your purchase with your personal skin and hair type, you can achieve smooth, long-lasting results without compromising on safety or values. Always read the fine print, and remember that the best device is one you will use consistently and correctly.