Best Epilators of 2021

Epilators come in all shapes and sizes. Some are better for your face and sensitive areas, some your legs, and some for a whole body groom. Whatever your need, I’ll help you find the best epilator for you through my comprehensive epilator reviews and buying guide.

Hair removal can be a frustrating and often expensive experience. If you’re like me, you’ll have tried countless different methods to find what works best for you. Waxing can be messy and expensive, and I was sick of having to wait for hair to grow back. Shaving was followed by stubble and an endless re-buying of blades. Finally I tried the epilator, and fell in love.

Epilating gives you the best of everything – the silky smooth skin that comes with shaving and the long-lasting benefits of waxing, without the mess. Plus you don’t have to wait for your hair to grow out so long between treatments!

Top 10 Best Epilators

Picture	Model	Comments	Rating
Picture	Model	Comments	Rating
	Braun Silk Epil 9	Our #1 Recommendation! If you want hassle-free epilation, this one's for you. We think it's the best on the market.	10/10 (Our Review)
	Braun Silk Epil 7	A feature-packed all rounder that epilates body and face. Wet & dry.	9/10 (Our Review)
	Philips Satinelle HP6401	Excellent value. Corded and hard to beat for quality.	8/10 (Our Review)
	Braun Silk Epil 5	One of the best corded epilators on the market!	8/10 (Our Review)
	Panasonic ES-ED90	One of our all time favorites. Wet & Dry. Does everything you need it to and more!	9/10 (Our Review)
	Braun Face 851	The best choice for facial epilation. Includes a facial cleansing brush that really makes this device great.	9/10 (Our Review)
	Emjoi AP-18 Emagine	A real powerhouse from a well respected company. 72 tweezers for ultimate smoothness.	8/10
	Braun Silk Epil 3	An older Silk Epil model, but still extremely effective.	7/10
	Epilady Legend	Can be used corded or cordless. The original epilator brand and still one of the most popular.	8/10 (Our Review)
	Remington EP7030	Can contend with the best at a great value. Wet & dry, face & body, 2 speeds.	8/10
	Emjoi Soft Caress Gold	24k Gold plated hypoallergenic tweezers. Works corded and cordless. Absolute luxury.	8/10 (Our Review)

Continue reading for a detailed review of each of the top epilators. If you’d like to learn how to choose the best epilator for you, skip down to our epilator buying guide.

Detailed Reviews of the 10 Best Epilators:

Here’s an in-depth look at each of the best epilators on the market.

Braun Silk Epil 9 Epilator

The Braun Silk Epil 9 is the highest selling model, and arguably the best epilator on the market. The Silk-Epil 9 is a feature-packed, whole body device. It is cordless, and can be used dry or wet. It’s the whole package!

For a detailed analysis, check out my full review of the Braun Silk Epil 9,  or see below for the highlights.

Top Features

• 40 Tweezers that can remove hairs 4x shorter than waxing can.
• Comfortable shape makes it easy to hold and maneuver in hard to reach areas.
• Wide epilation head helps remove the most hair with each stroke, making it quicker to treat large areas.
• Wet/Dry Operation – Critical if you want to use your epilator in the shower, which is much more comfortable than dry epilating.
• Two Speed Settings – Having the option to change the speed setting is a nice bonus. You can utilize the lower speed setting to make epilating sensitive areas less painful.
• Pulsing Vibrations make for a more gentle experience on your skin.
• Pivoting head makes it easier to maneuver along the contours of your body, for a more comfortable experience.
• Cordless Operation – Battery powered so you can use the epilator wherever you want, without the hassle of a cord being in the way or needing to be close by a power outlet.
• Rechargeable Battery – Important for battery operated epilators, the batteries are easily recharged between uses.
• Built-In Light makes it easier to use in the shower or other areas with poor light. Don’t underestimate how convenient that is – your shower is darker than you think!
• Washable epilation head – Removes for easy washing – essential for good hygiene!
• Includes additional accessories that

What’s Included

• Braun Silk Epil 9 Epilator
• Shaver Head – Very convenient for trimming hairs before epilating or for grooming sensitive areas like the bikini line.
• Trimmer Cap – Fits over the shaver head to control the length of hairs being trimmed.
• Skin Contact Cap – Fits over the base epilator head to maximize skin contact for the most efficient epilation.
• Facial Cap – Fits over the epilator head to limit the treatment area to a more narrow strip. This is convenient for treating small, sensitive areas like the face.
• Facial Brush – Separate battery-powered exfoliating brush. Exfoliation is important to prevent ingrown hairs when epilating.
• Charging Cable

Compare Braun Silk Epil 9 Models

There are currently three different models of the Braun Silk Epil 9 on the market. Frankly, they are all very similar and comes down mostly to the “extras” that are included. Here’s a breakdown.

All three of the Braun Silk Epil 9 models include the epilator itself, several helpful caps for treating various areas of the body (as detailed above), and a super convenient shaver head.

The Braun Silk Epil 9 9-579 is the standard model. This is the single most popular epilator on the market, and the one that most women choose.

This model comes with a standalone facial brush. I personally found that the brush wasn’t powerful enough, but this wasn’t an important feature for me, so I simply don’t use that accessory.

The Braun Silk Epil 9 961 was the next upgraded model. Instead of the standalone facial brush, it includes a full set of facial brush heads that are powered by the epilator itself. This makes them much stronger and more effective.

The kit includes a massaging cap, a deep exfoliation brush, and a gentle exfoliation brush. It’s worth upgrading to this model if you value having a full skin care kit at your disposal.

The Braun Silk Epil 9-890 SensoSmart is the newest version introduced by Braun. The main upgrade here is the new SensoSmart technology, which is pretty neat. An indicator light helps guide you by letting you know when you are applying the right amount of pressure for effective epilation.

They’ve also eliminated the facial brushes altogether with this model, but are now including a standalone battery-powered trimmer. The trimmer is intended for tidying up the bikini line and other sensitive areas, but I’ve found that the included shaver head does the job just as well. So go for this this newest model only if you want that awesome new SensoSmart technology!

Overall Review

The Braun Silk Epil 9 is my current recommendation for the best epilator on the market. It’s a reliable, general purpose epilator that can be used on all areas of the body. It’s cordless, wet & dry operation makes it very convenient to use in any situation. The included shaver head is a great bonus, that I use on a regular basis. And it includes many extra features that help make epilating quicker and more comfortable.

While it may be a bit more expensive than some more basic models, I really think it’s worth the extra few dollars for a better experience. If you need an even more detailed review, check out my full review here.

Philips Satinelle HP6401 Epilator

The Philips Satinelle Essential is by far the most popular value-priced epilator on the market. And for good reason – it’s reliable and it’s cheap. This is a no-frills corded epilator, best suited for treating large areas like the legs. It can only be used dry – so no shower sessions for this one!

For more details, check out my full review of the Phillips Satinelle, or continue reading for the highlights.

Top Features

• Perfect for treating large areas, like the legs. However, the manufacturer suggests it can be used on all areas of the body including the bikini line.
• Ergonomic design makes it easy to hold and maneuver.
• Washable epilation head removes for easy cleaning.
• 2 speed settings allow you to adjust the intensity to your personal preference.
• Reliable performance from a trusted manufacturer.
• Price – this is one the lowest priced epilators on the market.

What’s Included

• Philips Satinelle Epilator
• Efficiency Head – This cap fits over the epilator and helps position it for maximum hair removal.
• Power Cord

Overall Review

If you’re not looking for an epilator that can be used in the shower, then it makes sense to go with a corded epilator. That’s because you won’t need to worry about battery life or recharging, which is necessary with cordless models. The worst thing that can happen is having an epilator die while you’re in the middle of epilating. This never happens with a corded epilator.

The Philips Satinelle is arguably the best corded epilator out there, and it’s also the best epilator you can get for the low price point. It is extremely popular for a reason. It offers the essentials with reliable performance, at a very affordable price.

It lacks some of my favorite features from the higher end models – like ability to use wet, a shaver attachment, cap for epilating facial hair, or a built-in light. But if your budget is more limited, then this is a solid epilator that will get the job done.

Panasonic ES-ED90 Epilator

For those looking for a lower priced alternative to the Braun Silk Epil 9, that still allows for wet and dry use, the Panasonic ES-ED90 is a nice middle-ground option.

For complete details, check out this full review of the Panasonics ES-ED90. Or read on for the key points.

Features

• Wet/Dry Operation so you can use in the shower for greater comfort.
• 48 Tweezers on a wide epilation head for quick and efficient hair removal.
• Pivoting head flexes to conform to the contours of your body.
• Two Speed Modes so you can reduce the intensity for a more comfortable epilating experience.
• Washable epilation head – Removes for easy washing under running water.
• Built-In LED Light makes it easier to use in dark areas like the shower.
• Cordless Operation – Battery powered so you can use the epilator wherever you please, without worrying about power outlets or cords.
• Rechargeable Battery – Important for battery operated epilators, the batteries are easily recharged between uses.
• Includes a shaver head for trimming hairs prior to epilating, or grooming bikini area. However, I found that it was not quite as effective as others that I’ve tested.
• Pedicure attachment for treating feet is a fun bonus! But it does wear out quickly, as is similar in effectiveness to a standard pumice stone.

What’s Included

• Panasonic ES-ED 90 Epilator
• Shaver Head – convenient for trimming hairs before epilating or grooming sensitive areas of the body.
• Bikini Comb – helps control length of hair trimmed with the shaver. This is perfect for trimming the bikini area.
• Gentle Epilator Cap – Helps position the epilator for a more gentle experience. Hair removal will take longer with this cap in place, but will be more gentle on sensitive skin.
• Gentle Epilator Head – Reduces epilation area to a small strip. Convenient for treating the face or other small areas of the body.
• Pedicure Buffer Head – Essentially an electric pumice stone. This is a fun feature, but I did find that it wears out rather quickly, as you would expect with any pumice.

Compare Panasonic Epilators

Panasonic produces three different epilator models that are all essentially the same device with various attachments. This can make comparing the devices a bit confusing – so here’s what’s included in each.

Overall Review

The Panasonic ES-ED90 epilator is another solid choice. It offers some cost savings versus the Braun Silk Epil 9, but also comes with some trade offs. In my experience, the shaver head is not quite as effective, and that’s a feature I use very often. And while I love the idea of the pedicure attachment, it didn’t last long enough to be worth paying extra for, in my opinion.

However, the Panasonic is definitely effective at it’s main job – epilating! And it comes from a reliable manufacturer with a good reputation. This makes it a solid choice for an affordable wet & dry epilator. So if you want all the functionality  at a lower cost, and are willing to give up a few comfort features to get it, this may be the best epilator for you.

Emjoi AP-18R Epilator

As far as mid-range epilators go, the Emjoi AP-18R is a great option. You won’t be spending a lot for a big name brand, but will be getting a strong device. This model is for dry epilation only.

Key Features

• Dry Epilator – Dry epilation can be more efficient, but is also generally more painful than using a device in the shower.
• Corded or Cordless operation – You can use the epilator while it’s plugged in or remove it for battery-powered operation. This is really convenient, as you can have the best of both worlds.
• Two Speed Settings to adjust for more sensitive skin.
• 72 tweezers- making it one of the most efficient and powerful epilators on the market.
• Patented Glide Technology that helps make epilating a bit more comfortable
• Silver Ion technology claims to provide antomicrobial protection.

What’s Included

• Emjoi AP-18R Epilator
• Power Cord
• Travel Pouch
• Cleaning Brush

Compare Emjoi AP-18 vs Emjoi AP-18R

There are two models of this Emjoi Emagine Epilator. The only significant difference is that the Emjoi AP-18R is rechargeable, and can be used as both a corded or cordless epilator. The original Emjoi AP-18 can only be used when plugged in to a power source. The  price difference is nominal, so definitely go for the rechargeable version.

Overall Review

Emjoi has been producing epilators for a long time, and this Emjoi AP-18R is a reliable model. With 72 tweezers, it’s one of the most powerful epilators you can find! If you have very coarse hair, this might be the best epilator for you. And I love the option to use it either plugged in or cordless, which is really convenient.

The main drawback of this model is that it can only be used for dry epilation, which I find much more uncomfortable than wet. If that’s not a concern for you – the Emjoi is a fantastic choice and a really good value.

Braun Silk Epil 7 Epilator

The Braun Silk Epil 7 is sort of like the kid sister to the Braun Silk Epil 9. It has many of the same high end features and attachments, but is a bit smaller and the epilating technology is a bit more dated.  It’s a great choice if you want to save a little money and still get many of the great benefits of a Braun epilator.

For a detailed analysis, check out my full review of the Braun Silk Epil 7. Or see below for the highlights.

Top Features

• 40 Tweezers for efficient hair removal.
• Comfortable shape for easy maneuvering in hard to reach places.
• Wet/Dry Operation – So you can use your epilator in the shower, which is much less painful than dry epilating.
• Two Speed Settings – You can utilize the lower speed setting to make epilating sensitive areas more comfortable.
• Includes a shaver head, which is very helpful for trimming hairs before epilating.
• Includes a standalone bikini trimmer, for grooming this sensitive area.
• Pivoting head to more easily follow the contours of your body while epilating.
• Cordless Operation – Battery powered so you can use your epilator wherever you want.
• Rechargeable Battery – The batteries are easily recharged between uses, although the charge doesn’t seem to last as long as it does with newer models.
• Built-In Light makes it easy to see what you’re doing while you epilate.
• Washable epilation head – Removes for easy washing – essential for good hygiene!

What’s Included

• Braun Silk Epil 7 Epilator
• Shaver Head – Great for trimming hairs before epilating.
• Trimmer Cap – Fits on top of the shaver head to control the length of hairs being trimmed.
• Facial Cap – Fits over the epilator head to limit the treatment area to a more narrow strip. This is convenient for smaller areas like the face.
• Precision Cap – Fits over the epilator head to better size the epilator for underarms and bikini area. While a nice concept, it is not much different that the included facial cap.
• Efficiency Cap – Fits over the epilator head to maximize skin contact for the quickest epilation.
• Bikini Styler – Standalone handheld device for trimming the bikini area.
• Cleaning Brush
• Charging Cable

Compare Braun Silk Epil 7 Models

There are currently three models of the Silk Epil 7 on the market, with very similar features. So let me break it down for you.

The most popular version of the Silk Epil 7-561, which is what we have reviewed in this article. There is an older model, the Braun Silk Epil 7-521, which doesn’t include any of the added accessories. And there’s a brand new model called the Braun Silk Epil 7-880, which includes the latest SensoSmart technology. This is a pretty neat new feature, where the epilator uses an indicator light to let you know how much pressure to apply for maximum efficiency.

Here’s a quick table to break down what’s included with each model:

Overall Review

The Braun Silk Epil 7 was my epilator of choice – until the Braun Silk Epil 9 came along. It’s still a great model, so if you see a good deal on this epilator, you should go ahead and grab it.

But the price difference between the Silk Epil 7 and the Silk Epil 9 is not very significant. So I do recommend upgrading to the newer model. It uses the latest epilation technology and has a 40% wider head, which makes hair removal faster and more efficient.

While the bonus bikini trimmer is a fun add-on for the Silk Epil 7, I found it wasn’t really necessary, as the same job can be done with the included shaver head.

Braun Silk Epil 5-5890 Epilator

Braun recently retired the original Braun Silk Epil 5, which was a corded model for dry epilation. This newer version is a nice improvement – the new Braun Silk Epil 5 is a basic wet & dry epilator with cordless operation and an included shaver head. Pretty great value!

Key Features

• Sensosmart Technology – the newest technology from Braun that helps guide your epilation for most effective results.
• Wet/Dry Use– Can be used in the shower for a more comfortable experience.
• Two Speed Settings – You can control the speed, which is helpful for use on sensitive areas.
• Includes a shaver head, which is very helpful for trimming hairs before epilating.
• Non-slip grip is convenient for using in the shower.
• Cordless Operation – Battery powered so you can use your epilator wherever you want.
• Rechargeable Battery – The batteries are easily recharged between uses, and last a long time.

What’s Included

• Braun Silk Epil 5 Epilator
• Massage Cap – Essentially a new version of the “sensitive skin” cap. This cap helps make epialting more comfortable.
• Skin Contact Cap – Standard cap that maximes skin contact for fastest epilation.
• Shaver Head – For bikini grooming or trimming hairs to optimal length before epilating.
• Trimmer Cap – Fits over the shaver head to control length of hairs trimmed.

Overall Review

In general, this new offering from Braun is a a great addition to their epilator lineup. The Braun Silk Epil 5 offers a few less frills than the Braun Silk Epil 9, but includes all of the essentials. I love that they’ve included the shaver head, which is the one accessory I find to be totally necessary!

This epilator doesn’t include any caps for facial epilation, so it may be difficult to use on the face or other tight areas. But it’s a solid choice for epilating larger areas like legs, armpits, or even the bikini line.

Remington Smooth & Silky Deluxe

This basic dry epilator from Remington is a nice choice if you’re looking for a no-frills model at a good price.

Key Features

• 40 Tweezers for quick ad effective hair removal
• Wet/Dry Use– Can be used in the shower for a more comfortable experience.
• Rechargeable battery with a convenient low-power indicator.
• Built-In Light makes it easier to work in poorly lit bathroom conditions.
• Pivoting Head moves with the contours of your body.
• Two Speed Settings so you can adjust the performance to your personal preference.

What’s Included

• Remington Smooth & Silky Epilator
• Massaging Cap – Basically a sensitive skin cap, to help reduce pain on sensitive areas.
• Precision Cap – Narrows the hair removal area, for easier epilating of the face and other small areas.
• Charging Cord

Overall Review

Remington is a reliable manufacturer, and the Smooth & Silky is a nice general epilator. It lacks a shaver head, which is a nice feature to have in an epilator. And in general, I found it to be a bit less powerful than other epilators I’ve tested, like the Braun and Philips models.

This is certainly a fine choice if you find a great deal on this epilator, but I would recommend an upgrade if it’s within budget.

Braun Silk Epil 3 Epilator

This is the most basic epilator model offered from Braun, and is a good choice if you want something that simply works without costing much. This is a corded, dry epilator.

Key Features

• 20 Tweezers which is fine for this smaller epilator, but less powerful than other models
• Dry Use Only– Can not be used in the shower.
• Corded Use Only- Must be plugged in to operate the epilator. While this eliminates any battery life concerns, it’s not always the most convenient.
• Built-In Light is a helpful convenience and nice feature for this price point.
• Pivoting Head moves with the contours of your body.
• Two Speed Settings so you can adjust the performance to your personal preference.

What’s Included

• Braun Silk Epil 3 Epilator
• Massage Cap – Use to reduce pain in sensitive areas.
• Shaver Head – For grooming bikini area and trimming hairs before epilating.
• Trimmer Cap – Fits over the shaving head for grooming areas like the bikini line.
• Charging Cord

Overall Review

While this really can’t compare to the higher end epilator models, it’s also much less expensive. If you’re looking for a bare-bones epilator that is effective, and don’t mind corded operation and being limited to dry epilating, the Braun Silk Epil 3 may be a good choice.

Braun Face 851 Epilator

If you’re looking specifically for a facial epilator, you can’t go wrong with the Braun 851. It was designed specifically for epilating the face and is the most popular epilator in its class. It also comes with a set of facial cleansing brushes, so it’s a complete facial skin care system.

Key Features

• Slim Design is perfect for epilating the face. It’s like holding a mascara wand!
• Designed for facial epilation – ideal for chin, eyebrows, upper lip, and forehead.
• 200,000 plucking motions per second, making it much faster than tweezing facial hair.

What’s Included

• Braun Face 851 Epilator
• Facial Cleansing Brush
• Exfoliating Brush
• Sensitive Brush
• Beauty Sponge
• Cleaning Brush & Storage Cap

Overall Review

The Braun 851 Facial Epilator is by far the best epilator for faces. It’s really a two-in-one system with a complete set of facial brushes included, making it more of a complete skin care system than an epilator.

Epilator Buying Guide

What is an epilator?

An epilator is an electrical device that looks similar to a shaver. Though instead of simply slicing the hairs it uses many small tweezers to pull hairs from the root. Between 20 and 72 of these tweezers rotate on the head of the device and grab multiple hairs at a time.

The very first epilator was designed and produced in Israel in the 80’s. It worked by the use of a rotating coil spring, but due to the continuous flexing of the spring they tended to break fairly easily. This led to the design of the rotating disc epilator, which was subject to much litigation due to its similarity to the original. The case was lost which allowed for a flourishing of innovation in epilator technology, and the fantastic hair removal devices we have today! Cool, right?

Epilators are now streamlined for efficient and pain reduced grooming. They have hypoallergenic ceramic disks to reduce irritation, massagers to reduce pain and specialized devices for certain parts of your body.

How does an epilator work?

An epilator is designed with a rotating head containing many sets of small tweezers. You simply place the epilator against your skin and as that roller rotates, the tweezers remove the unwanted hair.  It’s just like plucking hairs out with a pair of tweezers – but the epilator removes many more hairs at once!

What are the advantages of epilating?

There are many advantages of epilating over traditional hair removal methods like waxing and shaving.

• Epilators keep you hairless longer. Hair is pulled from the root as opposed to being cut down as close to the skin as possible. This means that it takes much longer for the hair to even reach the surface of the skin, let alone grow out enough be visible or touchable on your body.
• Epilating is much cleaner. Epilating doesn’t require any creams or liquids and some devices even have chambers that catch falling hairs.
• Epilators are cheaper. An epilator can be a considerable up-front investment, but the long-term savings are absolutely worth it. No more buying razors or creams, no more booking expensive appointments. Everything you need is right there for you as soon as you feel you need it.
• Epilating is better for your skin. Shaving involves running a sharp blade across your skin repeatedly and you constantly run the risk of razor burn or cutting yourself. Waxing also removes a layer of skin cells with the hair and can cause irritation and redness.
• Epilators works everywhere. Most epilators can be used anywhere on your body. There are some that specialize in more sensitive areas, but the majority can be used on your face, underarms, bikini line, legs, anywhere!

Still not convinced? Let’s compare epilating to your current hair removal method.

Epilators vs Waxing

I’m asked about this so often, that I’ve written an entire article that compares epilators vs waxing. But here’s the short version. Epilators and waxing are both longer-term methods of hair removal that remove hair at the root, but they have some key differences as well. Here’s how they compare:

Epilators vs Shaving

Shaving has been the most common method of hair removal since… well since the beginning of hair removal. And for good reason – it’s generally cheap and easy. So here’s how these hair removal methods compare:

• Shaving is pain free. And epilators are… not. I’ll just go ahead and give this point to shaving.
• Shaving is quicker. While you have to do it much more often, there’s no doubt that a session of shaving your legs is going to be much quicker than epilating them.
• Epilators give longer lasting results than shaving. The trade-off for that fast, pain-free experience of shaving is that you have to do it constantly. Did you know that women spend an average of 72 days of their life shaving? Results from shaving typically only last a few days at best, while results of epilation will last for weeks.
• Epilators are cheaper than shaving in the long term. While razors can be found dirt cheap, you’ll go thrown an awful lot of them in your lifetime. This far outweighs the one time cost of purchasing an epilator that can last a lifetime.
• Epilators are safer than shaving. If you’ve ever accidentally sliced into your ankle with a traditional razor, you know what I mean. While you aren’t likely to do any real damage shaving, those occasional nicks are not a risk with epilators.
• Both can cause ingrown hairs. With epilators, you remove the hair at the root, so ingrown hairs are a possibility when that new hair attempts to emerge. But with razors, shaving blunts the end of the hairs, which can cause them to curl inwards and also create ingrown hairs. Regardless of which hair removal method you choose, be sure to exfoliate to help prevent ingrown hairs.

Epilators vs Tweezing

Epilators are essentially a whole bunch of tiny tweezers, so these hair removal methods actually have a lot in common. Here’s how they compare.

• Both provide long lasting results. Both epilating and tweezing remove hair at the root, for similarly long lasting results.
• Tweezing is less painful than epilating. That;s simply because with tweezing, you are going to remove a single hair at a time, compare to removing many hairs at once with an epilator.
• Epilators are better for larger areas. Tweezers are a great solution for very small areas like eyebrows, but are not at all practical for removing hair from larger areas of the body.

Epilators vs Electrolysis

Electrolysis is the only hair removal method that the United States’s FDA and AMA have endorsed as providing truly permanent results. But those results do come with some tradoffs. Here’s how electrolysis and epilators compare:

• Electrolysis provides permanent results. With electrolysis, each hair is treated with a zap of electricity that effectively kills the hair follicle. These results are completely permanent, while epilating will need to be done every few weeks.
• Epilation can be done at home, while electrolysis requires a professional. Electrolysis is not something you can do on your own. You will need to visit a professional to receive treatments, and it typically takes 12-15 sessions to achieve permanent results.
• Electrolysis is more risky. As your working with very powerful equipment, electrolysis naturally comes with more risk. Incorrect technique can leave the skin discolored, making it important to find a reputable and experienced professional.
• Electrolysis can be more painful than epilation. The process of electrolysis involves inserting a fine needle into the hair follicle and delivering an electric shock. Can you say ouch?

For more info on electrolysis, check out this article on high tech hair removal methods.

Epilators vs IPL or Laser Hair Removal

Laser hair removal used to be something that required several sessions in a salon, but with the advent of IPL (intense pulse light), you can now do your own laser hair removal at home. Here’s how it compares.

• IPL provides longer lasting results than an epilator. The results from these laser hair removal machines are extremely long lasting (months or more) and some claim to even be permanent.
• Both can be uncomfortable. The process of IPL involves transmitting an intense pulse of light to kill or damage the hair follicle. And while you don’t always think of light as being painful, it sort of is. I would rank the pain levels to be similar, but your personal sensitivity will vary.
• IPL is much more expensive than an epilaator. While a top end epilator will cost under $200, a reliable IPL machine will cost anywhere from $500-800.
• IPL is dangerous for some skin types. It works best on fair skin with dark hair, and can be outright dangerous for women with darker skin tones.

For more info on IPL, check out these reviews of the best home laser hair removal devices and this detailed review of my favorite IPL machine – the Philips Lumea Prestige IPL.

Where can I use an epilator?

Just about anywhere. Most epilators are suitable for use on all areas of your body including the face, legs, underams, and bikini area. However, some models are best suited for one area of the body or another. If you have a particular problem area in mind for epilating, it’s wise to make sure you choose an epilator best suited for that purpose.

Epilating Face

If you want to use an epilator specifically for your face, it’s best to purchase one that is designed specifically for facial hair. That’s because the face is one of the more challenging areas to treat – it’s very sensitive and the areas needing treatment are quite small.

Ideally, you will want to choose an epilator with a smaller head, which provides a more gentle treatment and is best suited for the sharper contours of your face. Facial epilators also tend to have helpful features, such as the ability to rotate in two directions, which give you more precise control.

The Braun Face 851 is by far the best facial epilator available, and you get the added bonus of several cleansing brushes that come in the kit.

It’s important to note that facial epilation is best left to the ladies. While men can certainly use a facial epilator, it would be quite painful due to their coarser hair and rapid facial hair growth.

Epilating Legs

The legs are the most common target for hair removal, and many women purchase an epilator solely for use on their legs. Just about any modern epilator is suitable for use on the legs, although I recommend choosing one with a nice wide epilator head so you can remove large areas of hair at once. This will help speed up the process when treating such a large area!

My personal favorite for epilating legs is the Braun Silk Epil 9. It has an epilation head that’s 40% wider than the other popular Braun epilators, so you can make quick work of hair removal.

Epilating Bikini Area

You can epilate your bikini area, and this is actually one of the most common reasons that women purchase an epilator. Be aware that you will likely feel more discomfort when epilating your bikini line, because the skin in this area is very sensitive and typically course.

For epilating the bikini area, choose a model that will give you more precise control and be a bit more gentle on your sensitive skin. To reduce pain, try trimming the hair prior to epilating and be sure to pull your skin taut as you work.

The best epilators, like the Braun Silk Epil 9 include a special cap that fits over the epilation head. This makes the treatment area more narrow – reducing pain and allowing you to reach tighter spaces. It also includes a shaver head for trimming prior to treatment.

Epilating Armpits

Epilating your armpits may be a bit less common than other areas, but I think it’s actually the single best use of an epilator! Prior to discovering epilators, I was shaving my underarms every single day. It’s just not an area that I want to have any stubble. Yuck!

With an epilator, I am able to epilate my armpits about once per week and maintain smooth, hair-free underarms. I also experience a lot less irritation with the epilator.

Most epilators will work well on the underarms area, but it’s nice to have a specialized cap for sensitive skin, as the underarms are more sensitive than the legs. Again, my personal pick is the Braun Silk Epil 9.

How to Choose the Best Epilator

With so many models to choose from and a wide price range of options, it’s critical to know what features are most important to you in your new epilator. Here are a few of the top things to consider when choosing the best epilator for you.

Price

You’ll find a wide variety of epilators available at different price points. It’s possible to pick up a solid entry-level epilator for $30-50. These will be no-frills models, but they can still provide great results for uncomplicated areas like the legs.

If you’re able to invest a bit more, you can pick up a higher end model in the price range of $100-150. These will generally include more luxurious features – like wet/dry operation, extra attachments, built-in lights, or various power settings – that can make epilation more convenient and comfortable.

Wet vs Dry Epilators

The decision between a wet or dry epilator is a question of both convenience and comfort.

Epilating with dry hair and skin is undeniably more effective, as the hairs aren’t weighed down by water nor do they stick to your skin. You will definitely be epilating for less time when you’re working with dry skin.

But the ability to epilate in the shower is pretty invaluable. Not only does the warm water soothe the skin and reduce the pain, but the process is also much cleaner. Most people prefer to epilate in the shower for these reasons.

I strongly suggest choosing an epilator that can be used either wet or dry, so you have the ability to try both methods. Start by epilating in the shower, allowing yourself to get used to the process, and then try your hand at dry epilating.

Number of Tweezers

Epilators vary greatly in the number of tweezers included on the epilation head. The pros and cons are much what you would expect here. Epilators with more tweezers will get the job done much more quickly, but may also be more painful to use.

The popular Braun Silk Epil 9 has a total of 40 tweezers. This is the epilator I use personally and find that to be more than sufficient – I rarely need more than two passes over an area to remove all the hairs. The Emjoi has a whopping 72 tweezers! So it’s a bit more powerful – but it does lack some of the creature features that the Braun offers.

Some epilator models come with a cap that limits the numbers of tweezers in use – sort of like a sensitive mode – so you can get yourself used to the sensations slowly.

Attachments and Caps

Most higher end epilators include a number of attachments (or caps) in the kit. Some of the attachments you might find are:

Efficiency Cap– This cap fits over the epilation head and helps position the device for maximum skin contact, for the most efficient epilation.

Face or Sensitive Skin Cap – This is literally a cap that fits over the epilator head, limiting the treatment area to a more narrow strip. As less tweezers are in play at once, this can reduce epilator pain for people with more sensitive skin. Using the cap is also helpful when working on smaller areas like the face or bikini line, where you need more precise control.

Trimmer Head – Some models include a trimmer that can be used to trim the hair prior to epilating. This is one of my favorite features – I use mine at least once a week! It’s great for keeping the bikini are nice and tidy.

Facial Brushes- Some higher end epilators will include an exfoliation brush head. This is a great idea, as exfoliating your skin is important for good epilator results, but I’ve found that the brushes lack the power of true electric facial brushes.

Facial Massage Brushes- Some newer models include a massage head, which can help to relax and rejuvenate the face. These are a fun bonus, but I personally wouldn’t make my purchase decision based just on this!

Corded or Cordless Epilator

There are benefits to both options. A cordless epilator will allow you to have the benefit of portability and ease of use. They can be easier to maneuver in hard to reach areas without needing to worry about the cord. And if you have a wet & dry epilator, you’ll be able to use it in the shower– which in my opinion, is a huge advantage. (Please don’t use corded epilators anywhere near water!).

The corded epilator negates the main downside to the cordless type, battery life. Most cordless epilators last from 30 minutes to an hour after being charged. If you can get the job done in that time then there’s nothing to worry about, but if not then you’ll have a problem. With a corded epilator you don’t have to worry about recharging.

I’ve personally found that the battery life in my Braun Silk Epil 9 cordless epilator is more than sufficient for epilating smaller areas like my underarms and bikini line. I can use it several times before needing to recharge. But if I were using my epilator on my full legs routinely, which takes much more time, I would want a corded epilator.

Disposable vs Rechargable Battery

If you decide to go for a cordless epilator, then you can either have one that’s battery powered or one with a rechargeable battery built in. Battery epilators are normally the cheaper models. These kinds of epilators are great for travel, but I don’t highly recommend them for regular use.

The main reason is that they tend to eat through batteries quite quickly, making the money you saved in buying an epilator go straight out the window!

The best option is a rechargeable battery epilator. Most of the time these are also waterproof and are super easy to use anywhere on your body (especially without a cord to get in the way!). As long as you’re vigilant with charging, we think these are by far the best choice.

Built-in Lights

Some epilator models, like the Braun Silk Epil 9,  include a built-in light. While not absolutely essential, it is actually a pretty convenient feature to have. You don’t realize how dark your shower actually is until you’re trying to look at your armpit hairs in there!

Washable Head

Most modern epilators have a removable head that can be washed with soap and water. I consider this an essential feature for maintaining good hygiene.

Reliable Manufacturer

There are dozens of manufacturers out there offering epilators. But for a device that is going to become this… ahem.. intimate with my body, I want a brand that I trust. Some of the best epilator brands are Braun, Phillips, Panasonic, and Emjoi. All of these companies have been reliably producing epilators for decades and provide great customer service.

Best Epilators for Specific Needs

If you’re purchasing an epilator with a specific body area in mind, or another specialized need, it’s good to do a little extra research ahead of time to be sure you make the right choice. Here are a few recommendations that are frequently asked for.

Best Epilator for Facial Hair

The single best epilator for facial hair is the Braun Face 851 Epilator. It’s the only one on the market that is truly designed for facial epilation and has a good enough reputation to trust with this delicate (and highly visible) area.

As a bonus, the Braun 851 comes with a full set of facial cleansing brushes, so you get a full facial skin care system all in one package.

Best Epilator for Bikini Line

The Braun Silk Epil 9 is my personal favorite for epilating the bikini area. If a full Brazilian is in your future, it is up to the challenge. And if you prefer to epilate just the bikini line itself, the device is easy to maneuver in this tricky area. And the ability to use the device in the shower helps tremendously with alleviating discomfort.

I also love that it comes with a shaver head that can be used to groom any hairs you choose to leave in the bikini area. It makes it very simple to keep things nice and tidy!

Best Epilator for Coarse Hair

If you have extremely course and thick hair, you may wish to consider the Emjoi EP-18R. While it’s limited to dry epilation only, this epilator features 72 tweezers, making it one of the most powerful epilators on the market. 72 tweezers can go a long way in removing all that course hair! For more ideas see this article on the best epilators for dark coarse hair.

Best Epilator for Men

This really depends. It’s important to realize that facial epilation for men is going to be a challenge – men tend to have very coarse facial hair that grows back very quickly. For men, epilating the face may just not be worth the time investment.

But for body hair removal, epilators work just as well for men as they do for women. In fact, we have a full guide to the best epilators for men. Don’t be fooled by the many pink and purple designs! The Braun Silk Epil 9 is the most popular among my male readers, as well as female. It’s just an all around great epilator and the benefits of using the device in the shower are numerous.

However, for men with particularly coarse body hair, they may wish to consider the Emjoi AP-18R. it will need to be used dry (no shower!), but does have 72 tweezers for am extra powerful epilation.

It’s extra important that men remember to trim their body hair before epilating for the first time. Epilating long hairs will be both painful and ineffective. The included trimmer on the Braun Silk Epil 9 is perfect for this, or pick up a separate electric trimmer.

Best Value Priced Epilator

The most popular value priced epilator on the market is definitely the Philips Satinelle HP6401. It doesn’t come with any fancy accessories, it must be plugged in, and can only be used for dry epilation.

But it works – and works well. And it doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. It’s a great way to try out epilating for beginners.

FAQs about Epilators

Will an epilator remove hair permanently?

No. An epilator removes hair from the root, much like tweezing. The hair removal is not permanent, but with continued use the hair will grow back more slowly and less coarse over time. Check out this article for more information on permanent hair removal methods.

Will epilating cause ingrown hairs?

Epilation removes hairs from the root, so it is possible to get ingrown hairs as those hairs grow back and try to reach the surface. Some people seem to be more prone to ingrown hairs than others. Personally, I’ve only run into this issue a handful of times in years of using epilators.

How can I prevent ingrown hairs from epilation?

The biggest thing you can due to prevent ingrown hairs, from epilators or otherwise, is regular exfoliation. You can use a good body scrub or exfoliating brush for this purpose.

Some epilators even have an exfoliating brush attachment which you can use, although I’ve found that they’re typically a bit weak.

If you suffer from any other skin conditions, investing in a true microdermabrasion machine might be worthwhile.

Be sure to check out this article for more ways to prevent ingrown hairs, and a elpful cheat sheet.

Does epilating hurt?

We so often hear about the terrors of epilator pain, but it’s something our bodies can get used to surprisingly well. I won’t lie, the first time epilating isn’t a very fun experience. Some areas are more sensitive than others and will be more painful to epilate, such as the underarms and bikini line.

But if you keep at it, it will definitely get much easier. This is partly because your hair will grow back less coarse, making removal less painful, and partly because you just get used to the sensation.

I’ve been using epilators for years, and I now only find it painful for the first few seconds of each session.

For some helpful tips, check out this guide to reducing epilator pain.

How do I reduce epilator pain?

For more tips, check out this article on How to Reduce Epilation Pain.

What do I need to do before I epilate?

First, I suggest you review this guide to perfect epilation for all kinds of tips and tricks that will make the process easier. But two of the key things to remembers are:

Trim your hairs. Epilators work best on very short hairs, so it’s best to trim any long body hairs prior to epilating. Many higher end epilators come with shaver heads that due this job really well. If yours doesn’t come with this feature, you should pick up a separate electric trimmer to do the job.

Exfoliate. Exfoliating is a key step to help prevent ingrown hairs. It helps to remove dead skin cells and make it easier for new hairs to break through the surface. An exfoliating brush is an inexpensive and effective way to get the job done.

Do I need to clean my epilator?

Yes! Cleaning your epilator is important to maintain good hygiene and prevent the device from harboring bacteria and other grossness. Most modern epilators have a removable head that can be washed with soap and running water.

Conclusion

I hope this guide has given you a better understanding of epilators and helped you decide on the best epilator for you!

Overall, I recommend selecting a wet & dry epilator from a reputable brand to get your self started. This will give you the most reliable results, the safest experience, and the most convenient process.

My personal favorite is the Braun Silk Epil 9, which happens to be the most popular model among my readers as well. It’s reasonably priced, dependable, and has been giving me fantastic results for years.

More Resources on Epilators and Epilating

• The Guide to Perfect Epilation
• Epilators vs Waxing
• Best Epilators for the Perfect Brazilian
• Best Epilators for Men
• How to Prevent Ingrown Hairs from Epilating
• Best Epilator for Black Skin
• Best Epilator For Thick Hair
• Best Epilator for Sensitive Areas
• Best Epilator for Dark, Coarse Hair

• Author
• Recent Posts

Nikki

Founder at A Smooth Life

Nikki founded A Smooth Life in 2015, with the hope of creating a resource for unbiased reviews of health and beauty products. Today she manages a full team of writers and product testers who personally test every single product that makes an appearance on the site. Our product testers range from dermatologists to professional beauticians to ordinary women (and sometimes men!), so you can get an honest review from people like you.

Latest posts by Nikki (see all)

• Best Facial Hair Removal Cream for Sensitive Skin - June 22, 2021
• Best Silk Pillowcase for Hair and Skin - June 21, 2021
• Best Collagen Product for Skin - June 21, 2021