The 5 best epilators for head-to-toe hair removal (2024)

These tried and tested must-have devices will give you long-lasting results

By Roberta Schroeder
The 5 best epilators for head-to-toe hair removal (1)

One of the best hair-removal options, an epilator is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to achieve salon-standard results at home. Here, see everything you need to know about epilation, including the models we trust.

How does an epilator work?

Epilation is a mechanical hair-removal method. Each device contains tiny tweezers, usually installed on a rotating head, which rapidly grasp and pluck out your hairs. A good one will work on strands as short as 0.5mm and, as the process removes the hair right from the root, the results are smoother than shaving and last for weeks.

Is epilating better than waxing?

Like many beauty-related questions, the answer comes down to personal choice. Epilating gives you all the advantages of waxing (including slow regrowth and a visible lack of stubble), without the time-consuming process and inevitable mess.

Epilating can remove shorter hairs too, which tend to grow back finer, while some people also report fewer ingrown hairs. However, the mechanical plucking process can be more painful than waxing, especially when tackling your underarms and bikini line.

What to look for in an epilator

Wet and dry use: Some epilators can only be used on dry skin. If you prefer to epilate in the bath or shower, make sure your chosen model is cordless and waterproof.

Flexibility: Pivoting heads help you reach tricky spots like the backs of your knees, while LED lights illuminate fine hairs that can otherwise be difficult to spot.

Versatility: Look for an epilator that comes with a range of attachments for different areas of your body. These may include precision caps, exfoliating brushes, bikini trimmers and shaving heads.

There's now a wide array of epilators available on the market, and the difference between each model can be baffling. Below, see the devices we've used and been impressed by.

The best epilators for head-to-toe hair removal

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1

Best epilator

Braun Silk-épil 9 Flex Epilator

Now 50% Off

One of Braun's most advanced models, this white and gold epilator boasts a flexible pivoting head, so glides seamlessly over body contours. Cordless and waterproof, you can use it in the shower and the anti-slip grip makes it perfect for applying just the right amount of pressure – helpful for those frantic mornings. It’s just as effective on dry skin and the handy light brings the finest hairs sharply into focus.

2

Best epilator on dry skin

Philips Wet and Dry Epilator

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2

Best epilator on dry skin

Philips Wet and Dry Epilator

Extreme efficiency is this model’s USP, as it claims to give you smooth legs in just 10 minutes – and we can attest it does just that. This one can be used on wet skin, but we found it to perform better – plucking even the tiniest hairs – when used on dry legs. With eight head attachments, you can trim, exfoliate and shape every part of your body with ease.

3

Best facial epilator

Braun FaceSpa Pro 921 Facial Epilator

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3

Best facial epilator

Braun FaceSpa Pro 921 Facial Epilator

This sleek three-in-one device sensitively epilates, cleanses and tones your face in conjunction with your skincare products. It removes hair instantly, and with minimal pain - four times shorter hairs than waxing, Braun claims. The sonic massage head makes a lovely post-epilation treat, especially when used over a soothing serum. And, with a sleek beauty storage case thrown in, there's little more we could ask for.

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4

Best epilator for legs

Panasonic ES-EL9A Wet and Dry Cordless Epilator

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4

Best epilator for legs

Panasonic ES-EL9A Wet and Dry Cordless Epilator

This slick epilator has an extra-wide head, so works quickly to cover larger areas of skin. With 60 tweezer and three speed settings, you'll be able to cover your legs in mere minutes. Its double disk head ensures that every single leftover hair is caught, with the second disk smartly catching all the hairs missed by the first disk. There's also a host of attachments to try out, from an exfoliating brush to a bikini comb and pedicure pumice.

5

Best epilator for travel

PluckIt 2 Super Glide Compact Epilator Magnitone

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5

Best epilator for travel

PluckIt 2 Super Glide Compact Epilator Magnitone

Now 33% Off

If you're looking for a compact model to stuff in a suitcase, Magnitone's mini option is ideal. It might be small, but it makes light work of removing hair from underarms and legs, and can simply be recharged via the USB port. A true springtime travel essential.

The 5 best epilators for head-to-toe hair removal (2024)

FAQs

Which brand epilator is the best? ›

The Braun Silk-Epil is arguably the most famous epilator on the market and the first in the world with a fully flexible head, which makes for a smooth ride even over those tricky kneecaps and performed best compared to all the others when it came to my bikini line.

What is the best epilator to remove hair from roots? ›

Epilators like Braun Silk-epil 9 Flex and SkinSpa 961 are designed with a 40% extra wider head with 40 micro-grip tweezers. These wider, longer and deeper tweezers can remove even the shortest and finest hair that even waxing cannot catch. This means, no more waiting until your hair grows back long enough for waxing.

Are expensive epilators better? ›

With any technology products, the more expensive it is the more features and advanced technology it has. Some of the more expensive ones have wider heads and better tweezers for a smoother finish. They also come with extra add-ons like a skin buffer or face epilator too.

Is ceramic or metal epilator better? ›

If your skin is sensitive or you're concerned about developing an allergic reaction to metal coils, opt for an epilator with ceramic disc tweezers. These will remove your hairs effectively without the risk of irritation. A quick charge feature lets you use your rechargeable device for one session after a short charge.

Is an epilator worth buying? ›

In general, epilators remove more hair than electric shavers do. Although they can take more time and effort to use than shavers, they can save you time and energy in the long run. Because an epilator removes hairs at the root, you won't have to use it again for several weeks.

Why is my epilator not removing hair from the root? ›

1. Not prepping the skin properly: Before epilating, it is important to clean and dry the skin to remove any dirt, oil, or product buildup. This can help ensure that the epilator can grip the hair effectively and remove it from the root.

How to choose an epilator? ›

If you want to remove hair from your armpits, bikini line, or face, choose an epilator with attachments for these sensitive areas. These attachments make the head of the epilady smaller, so you can remove hair from a small area. Another option is a separate small face epilator, or bikini styler.

Which is better, an IPL or an epilator? ›

IPL is more effective than waxing, shaving, and epilating all together because it's faster, easier, and it doesn't hurt. But scientifically speaking, it's the best method of permanent hair removal out there.

What is the disadvantage of epilating? ›

“Cons include minor discomfort and potential irritation, and broken shafts can lead to ingrown hairs or infections.” There are a few different types of epilation. Below is how to achieve each method, along with their pros and cons.

Do dermatologists recommend epilators? ›

"Epilators can be a good option for someone who is not a candidate for laser hair removal or gets irritation with depilatory creams and shaving," explains Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist at New York's MDCS Dermatology.

Why am I still prickly after epilating? ›

Epilating pulls out hair from the root. Some after-effects like itchiness, redness or tightness after using your Philips epilator are normal, especially if you have sensitive skin. You may also see small bumps on your skin or experience a burning sensation. This goes away with time and is nothing to worry about.

Is it better to use an epilator wet or dry? ›

We recommend that you use most products on dry skin, as wet hair tends to stick more to the skin. Also, if you are aiming to do an on-the-go session, try using the product on dry skin instead. Be certain that your skin is clean and completely dry before using the appliance.

Can you use an epilator on pubic hair? ›

You can also use an epilator to remove coarser hair such as heavy facial hair and bikini or pubic hair. These epilators have more tweezer heads and stronger motors to help manage thicker hair. If you use an epilator for pubic hair, test out a small area first to be sure it doesn't irritate your skin or cause a rash.

How many times do you have to epilate before hair stops growing? ›

To prevent your hair from growing, you may have to perform between two and four cycles of epilation in conjunction with applying the FRÉNÉSIES cream. In extreme and very rare cases, the treatment may take up to 6 cycles to achieve the permanent results.

Is Braun the best epilator? ›

If you're looking for a multi-purpose tool to invest in, we recommend the Braun Silk·épil 9 Flex Epilator, Beauty Set with FaceSpa. And if you want one specifically designed for the face, go for the FaceSpa Pro Facial Epilator Kit.

Is Braun a good brand for epilator? ›

The Braun Silk Epil series are awesome. I have had two over the past 10 years. They last long and I just recently replaced the head of my epilator when it started to slow down and it's as good as new now.

What is the difference between a laser epilator and an epilator? ›

An epilator rips the hair out of the root, similar to waxing, and has to be done time and time again. Laser Hair Removal feels similar to a rubber band snapping against your skin, and once you have completed all your treatments, you shouldn't ever have to wax, shave, pluck, epilate or laser again.

Which epilator is best for full body and face? ›

VGR V-726 Compact Professional Cordless Women Epilator for different body areas for gentle hair removal at home Wet & Dry use 60 minutes Runtime
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  • hair removal machine for women. braun epilator for women full body.

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