Review: Philips Lumea Precision home IPL device

Philips Lumea Precision is a new-generation update of the Lumea IPL device, which we trialled in the spring of last year.

Lume Precision is physically very similar to its predecessor, with the same body and charging system (you plug it into the mains via a detachable cable). It has a couple of new additions - firstly, a new case, which slightly resembles a Breville toastie maker when closed, and has snugly-fitting compartments for the Lumea, its charger and even the plug it comes with. Everything fits neatly and securely in the case, which means it's good for travelling.

Secondly, there's an alternate attachment for the business end - a smaller window with stronger light filters (on the right, below). This allows you to blitz sensitive areas, including the face, which will be great news for anyone who was frustrated by other IPL machines' limitations in being able to tackle facial hair.

There's also the advantage of a longer time between charges, and shorter pauses needed between flashes. This makes a real difference, especially when you're covering larger areas like the legs. I found that I could do both lower legs in half an hour (or within the duration of an episode of Firefly, anyway) without the machine needing a cool-down break or running out of power.

There are one or two tiny design fixes I wish Philips would make to the Lumea - most notably, I wish they'd move the setting adjustment buttons away from the handle, as it's very easy to accidentally ramp up the power while gripping the unit and give yourself a stronger zap than you intended. Ouch.

I also wish there was some kind of protective cover over the lens when using the regular attachment - the window doesn't have any kind of cover so any dust or bits of white eyeliner pencil (which I use to mark out guidelines on my legs) can get onto the lens and potentially cause damage and get burned onto the lens if they're not cleaned away quickly.

Those very small gripes aside, this is definitely the best IPL device I've tried. It's quick, efficient, very simple to use and has plenty of settings and options that allow you to get a good result whatever your skin's sensitivity or the area you're using it on.

I found over time that ease of use is a real factor with IPL machines - the Boots Smooth Skin has really fallen out of favour with me because of the corded handset and the need to apply conductive gel while using it. It's a terrible reflection on me, but it was just too much hassle to use. I find it very boring and painstaking to IPL myself and as a result I often put it off. Having a machine that's fast and easy to use maximises the chances of me sticking with it long enough to see real results.

Since using the Lumea Precision I've totally de-hairified my lower legs to the point where I only need to shave them about once every two weeks. When you compare the half-hour spend every other week with all the time and expense of shaving daily in the shower, it's most definitely worth it. And who doesn't need an excuse to sit down and watch an episode of their favourite box set once every couple of weeks?

Lumea Precision costs £449 and is available from Boots.com


Disclosure - PR sample