An epilator is an electric device that removes hair from the root using rotating tweezers, leaving skin smooth for up to several weeks.
If you are tired of shaving every other day, an epilator offers a longer-lasting alternative that works on legs, underarms, arms, and even the bikini area. Unlike razors that cut hair at the surface, epilators grasp multiple hairs at once and pull them out from the follicle, similar to waxing but without the sticky mess. The result is smoother skin that takes longer to regrow, and with regular use, many people find the hair grows back softer and finer.
How Does an Epilator Work?
Epilators use a row of tiny, electrically driven tweezers or discs mounted on the head of the device. As you glide the device across your skin, these tweezers open and close rapidly, catching hairs and pulling them out from the root. Braun describes epilators as a root-hair-removal method, which is why the results last considerably longer than shaving.
Because the hair is removed from the follicle, it takes time to grow back. Most people get anywhere from two to four weeks of smoothness per session, depending on their hair growth cycle. Some manufacturers even claim their epilators can remove hair that is shorter than what waxing can catch, which means you do not need to wait for a certain growth length before using it.
Modern epilators come with features aimed at making the experience more comfortable. Higher-end models from Braun and Philips include massaging rollers or a cooling glove to reduce discomfort. There are also wet and dry options; some devices are fully waterproof and can be used in the shower, but this depends entirely on the specific model, so check the manual before bringing it near water.
How Do You Use an Epilator Correctly?
Using an epilator takes a little practice, but the technique comes down to four principles: angle, direction, pressure, and speed. Prepare your skin first, then follow these steps:
- Exfoliate before you start. This helps lift ingrown hairs and makes it easier for the tweezers to grab each hair.
- Hold the epilator at a 90-degree angle to your skin so the tweezers make full contact.
- Move against the direction of hair growth. This allows the tweezers to catch the hair from the root rather than breaking it mid-shaft.
- Glide slowly and lightly. Rushing can snap hairs, which increases the chance of ingrown hairs.
Press gently. A common mistake is pushing the device hard into the skin. This not only makes the process more uncomfortable but also reduces effectiveness because the tweezers cannot grab the hairs cleanly. Let the device do the work and simply guide it over the skin.
After you finish, moisturize the area to calm your skin. If you are new to epilation, your first session may feel a bit intense, but most people find that subsequent sessions become easier as the hair grows back finer and sparser. For a detailed comparison of the best devices for both your face and body, our tested roundup of face and body epilators covers the top-rated options.
What Are the Most Common Mistakes People Make?
Several errors can turn epilation from a smooth experience into a painful one. The first is moving too fast; hurrying breaks hairs instead of pulling them cleanly from the root. The second is using the wrong direction, which reduces the epilator’s ability to grip the hair. The third is skipping exfoliation, which raises the risk of ingrown hairs over time.
The fourth mistake is assuming every epilator can be used wet. While many modern models are waterproof, wet use is a feature that depends on the specific device. Verify your model’s capabilities in the manual before using it in the shower or bath. According to WebMD’s guide on epilators, it is also worth noting that while the device works well on legs and arms, the skin in sensitive areas like the underarms and bikini line can take longer to get used to the sensation.
| Common Mistake | Why It Hurts Results | What To Do Instead |
|---|---|---|
| Pressing too hard | Increases discomfort and prevents clean hair removal | Touch the epilator lightly to the skin |
| Moving too fast | Breaks hairs, leading to ingrown hairs | Glide slowly against hair growth |
| Going with the grain | Tweezers struggle to grip hair at the root | Always move against hair growth direction |
| Skipping exfoliation | Increases the risk of ingrown hairs | Exfoliate before every epilation session |
| Assuming wet use | Can damage a non-waterproof device | Check the model’s manual before using water |
The best way to get comfortable with an epilator is to start on your lower legs where the skin is less sensitive, then work your way up as you get used to the sensation. Giving your skin a day to recover between sessions on different areas helps minimize irritation. If you are choosing between brands, Braun’s current line includes the Silk·épil 9 series, while Philips offers the Epilator Series 9000, both of which are available on the US market. Braun’s US epilator page provides full details on their current models and features.
References & Sources
- Braun US. “Epilators — Female Hair Removal.” Official product page for the US market covering current Silk·épil models.
- Braun UK. “How to Epilate.” Official guidance on technique, angle, and preparation.
- WebMD. “What to Know About Hair Removal With an Epilator.” Medical overview of epilation benefits and caveats.