everything that i've read indicates that home lasers are a bit lacklustre ["entirely useless" is a more common phrase]
...whether that is because they really are a bit carp, or if it's because the people using and reviewing haven't given the necessary time, i don't know.
i'm up to my sixth professional session and it's only just starting to show a real effect.
it's certainly painful on the face, but speaking for myself, any pain is endurable to get rid of the hideous stubble that stands between me and The Pass.
it doesn't necessarily have to be ridiculously expensive, either; i got one of those Scoopon deal things and got six months worth of treatment [six-odd sessions] for $200 aud.
again, anything is worth finally being free of it.