Comparing Pure Switch and Pure Adapt IPL hair removal devices

Deciding which SmoothSkin IPL hair removal device is best for you

In this article, we’re comparing our most recent innovation – Pure Switch to our Pure Adapt. Pure Switch launched in late 2025 as a breakthrough in at-home IPL hair removal as the world’s first 3-in-1 IPL with ice cooling technology and smart attachments for full body versatility.  

Why choose SmoothSkin IPL?

With over 40 years of expertise, SmoothSkin has been at the forefront of IPL technology from the very beginning – in fact, we’re the inventors of the technology. Some of our proudest milestones and achievements are:

• First company to launch an at-home IPL hair removal device
• Over 7 million devices sold worldwide
• More than 7000 clinical treatments performed

Our devices are designed and developed in the UK, with in-house manufacturing to ensure consistent quality and performance. With strong clinical evidence and in-house R&D teams, we continuously push the boundaries of IPL, launching many of the world’s firsts within IPL:

·       Patented auto skin tone sensors for personalised treatments

·       Balance of speed and power for fast and powerful treatments

·       Most recently, the first to launch Sapphire Ice Cooling and versatile attachments for fast and precise treatments in 1 device

Learn more about SmoothSkin IPL technology here. 

What is IPL hair removal? 

IPL (Intense Pulsed Light) is a clinically proven technology that targets the pigment in hair follicles to break the cycle of hair regrowth. Over time, this results in long-lasting hair reduction and smoother skin.

The technology behind both devices

Both Pure Adapt and Pure Switch are built on the same core technology, meaning you can expect the same level of performance from either, with:

• Up to 99% hair reduction in 12 weeks
• Visible results in as little as two uses
• Up to 12 months of smoother skin
• Unlimited flashes
• Built-in UV filter
• Patented auto skin tone sensor
• Skin contact sensor for added safety

In practical terms, you will get the same results with both but should consider how and where you’ll use the device, comfort preference and available features.

Why choose Pure Adapt? 

Pure Adapt is our most popular IPL device, offering advanced technology and clinically proven results in a streamlined design. Built on the same core IPL technology as Pure Switch, it delivers the same long-term hair reduction and consistent performance.

Designed with an adaptable curved treatment head, Pure Adapt glides easily over the body for fast, efficient treatments with fewer missed spots. It also includes the same intelligent features you’d expect from SmoothSkin, such as auto skin tone sensing and multiple comfort settings for personalised treatments.

Pure Adapt is ideal if you:

• Want a high-performance IPL device with proven results
• Prefer a streamlined design without additional attachments
• Primarily treat larger areas like legs, arms and underarms
• Are looking for a lower price point while still investing in premium IPL technology

Available in multiple colour options, including sage green and champagne, Pure Adapt combines performance, design and value in one device.

What is the difference between Pure Switch and Pure Adapt?

Pure Switch is our latest innovation with over 4 years of research and development behind the scenes to bring it to market. Key technology upgrades include:

1.      Painless treatments with Sapphire Ice Cooling technology

Pure Switch is the only SmoothSkin device with Sapphire Ice Cooling technology – this technology cools the skin to a comfortable level, so you don’t feel a thing, even in your most sensitive areas.

Unique ThermoSense technology ensures treatments are always kept to the same temperature. 

2.      Designed for the whole body with two additional attachments

Pure Switch comes with two attachments for full-body versatility.

Speed Mode (Adapt+ head) gives 2x faster treatments with our Adapt Plus technology that adapts to the curves of your body for fewer missed spots.

Precision Mode (smaller head) for treating smaller areas such as upper lip, fingers and toes with ease.

3.      Clinically proven to reduce up to 95% hair reduction in 2 uses¹

4.  Faster treatments 

A full body treatment with Pure Switch takes just 7 minutes when using Ice Mode on underarms and bikini line and Speed Mode on legs.

¹ – in a clinical study on lower legs. individual results may vary.

How to decide which IPL device is best for you

When choosing between Pure Adapt and Pure Switch, it helps to consider how and where you will use your IPL device.

If you’re more likely to use your IPL device for full body treatments including bikini line, underarms legs and face – choose Pure Switch for:

ü  Added comfort of Ice Cooling technology on sensitive areas such as bikini line and underarms

ü  Faster treatments on legs

ü  Precise treatments on smaller areas such as upper lip, fingers and toes

ü  Extra treatment heads for versatility and choice

If you’re looking for a high-performance IPL device with a more streamlined design and plan to use your device mainly on larger areas like legs, arms and underarms – choose Pure Adapt for:

ü  The same clinically proven hair reduction results

ü  An adaptable curved head for smooth, efficient treatments and fewer missed spots

ü  Intelligent features like auto skin tone sensing and comfort settings

To learn more about the latest addition to the range, you can read more about Pure Switch here.

Pure Switch or Pure Adapt – which should you choose?

Ultimately, both Pure Switch and Pure Adapt are designed to deliver the same long-lasting results, so the right choice comes down to your personal preferences, routine and budget. Whether you prioritise enhanced comfort and added versatility, or a streamlined device with advanced technology at a more accessible price point, you can feel confident you’re choosing a clinically proven IPL solution.

What do the reviews say?

“I came back to provide an update to my review. I bought this in September and used it like it said to do, one time a week. It works. My hair is gone. It's so worth it.” – Corrine, Verified Purchase

“I really love this product! It removes hair seamlessly! It is virtually painless too. I would highly recommend to family and friends.” – Mollie, Verified Purchase

“This hair removal product is the very best I've ever had. As a Greek/American I have had my more than my equal share of body hair. It's plagued me for the last 30 years. I was first in line for spa treatments, I've tried various home hair removal methods and after years of doing this I still felt like a hairy ape. This product, however, worked wonders for me. Nothing currently on the market can compare. It's fast, strong, easy to handle, and the best thing for me is it works! Quickly, too. After 2 months of using it weekly I am literally hair free for the first time in my life. I can't describe the life altering changes it's made in how I view my own body. It has different features such as intensity. For sensitive areas it has a cooling feature. The light pulses are speedy which result in an all body treatment that takes less than 40 minutes. All in all, this gets a 10 star rating from me. I love it.” – Katherine, Verified Purchase

Frequently asked questions

Is Pure Switch more effective than Pure Adapt?
Both devices use the same core IPL technology, meaning you can expect the same long-term hair reduction results. If you’re looking for additional comfort through ice cooling technology and added versatility of treatment heads, choose Pure Switch.

Is IPL hair removal safe to use at home?
Yes, SmoothSkin devices are clinically tested and include built-in safety features such as skin tone sensors and UV filters.

Does IPL work on all skin tones and hair types?
IPL works best when there is a contrast between the skin and hair and is suitable for light to medium-deep skin tones and dark blond to black hair colors. Refer to our skin and hair chart for suitability.

How often should I use IPL?
One treatment per week for 12 weeks is recommend with SmoothSkin IPL devices for up to 12 months of smoother skin. Switch to maintenance treatments as needed to keep regrowth at bay.

Compare our full range of IPL products here. 

Ready to shop Pure Switch? Shop here.