Learning how to use an epilator takes a little patience, but it pays off. An epilator is a handheld electric device with a rotating head of tiny tweezers that pluck hairs from the root. Results last for weeks, like waxing, and after the cost of the device there is nothing more to buy. The first sessions are the hardest. They become quicker and far more comfortable as hair grows back finer and sparser.
What to expect
- Sensation: a rapid stinging or pinching, strongest the first few times and on sensitive areas.
- Results: smooth skin for about two to four weeks.
- Time: 20 to 40 minutes for both lower legs at first. Less with practice.
- After-effects: redness and small bumps for a few hours.
Choosing an epilator
| Feature | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Number of tweezers | More tweezers cover an area faster |
| Wet and dry use | Using it in warm water reduces discomfort |
| Speed settings | A slower speed for fine hair and for beginners |
| Caps and attachments | Sensitive-area caps for underarms and bikini line; massage rollers to ease the sting |
| Cordless and washable | Convenient and easy to clean |
| Built-in light | Helps you to see fine hairs |
Before you start
- Check hair length. About 2 to 5 mm is ideal. Trim longer hair, which hurts more and can tangle.
- Exfoliate the day before to free trapped hairs. See How to Prepare Your Skin for Hair Removal.
- Take a warm shower or bath to relax the skin.
- Dry thoroughly, with no lotion or oil, unless you are using a wet-and-dry model in the shower.
- Choose the evening. Redness can then fade overnight.
For your first time, start with the lower legs. The skin is firmer there, and it is the least sensitive area.
Step by step
- Hold the skin taut with your free hand. This reduces pain and stops the skin from being pinched.
- Hold the epilator at a right angle (90 degrees) to the skin. Do not press.
- Glide slowly against the direction of hair growth. On the lower legs, that is usually upward.
- Do not rush. Moving too fast breaks hairs instead of pulling them out, which leads to stubble and ingrown hairs.
- Work in small sections, and go over an area again from a slightly different angle if hairs remain.
- Lift the device at bony areas, such as the shin and ankle, and use short passes.
- Take breaks if you need them.
Area-by-area tips
| Area | Tips |
|---|---|
| Lower legs | The best place to start; long, slow passes |
| Knees | Bend the knee to tighten the skin |
| Thighs | More sensitive; hold skin very taut |
| Underarms | Use the sensitive cap; raise your arm high; hair grows in several directions |
| Bikini line | Trim first; use the sensitive cap; hold the skin firmly; go slowly |
| Face | Only with a device or attachment designed for the face |
Ways to reduce discomfort
- Epilate regularly, every two to four weeks. Shorter, finer regrowth hurts much less.
- Use a wet-and-dry device in a warm bath or shower.
- Start on a lower speed.
- Avoid the days just before and during your period, when skin is often more sensitive.
- Shave a few days beforehand for your first session, so that hair is short when you epilate.
Aftercare
- Rinse with cool water, or apply a cool cloth.
- Apply a light, fragrance-free moisturizer or aloe vera gel.
- Wear loose clothing.
- For 24 hours, avoid hot baths, heavy exercise, swimming, sun and perfumed products.
- From day three, exfoliate gently two or three times a week.
See Waxing Aftercare: What to Do After Hair Removal. The same advice applies as for waxing.
Preventing ingrown hairs
- Exfoliate regularly between sessions.
- Moisturize daily.
- Move the epilator slowly, so that hairs are pulled out whole.
- Avoid tight clothing straight afterwards.
If you get bumps, see Razor Burn vs Ingrown Hairs: Signs and Care.
Cleaning the device
- Brush hairs out of the head after every use.
- Rinse washable heads under running water, and let them dry.
- Wipe the tweezers with rubbing alcohol from time to time.
- Do not share your epilator.
When not to epilate
- Over irritated, sunburnt, broken or infected skin.
- Over moles, varicose veins or active eczema or psoriasis.
- If you have a condition or take medicines that affect skin healing or bleeding, ask your doctor first.
Is it right for you?
If you find the sensation hard to tolerate after several tries, another method may suit you better. Shaving vs Waxing vs Epilating: Key Differences compares the options, and Laser Hair Removal vs IPL: Key Differences explains longer-term hair reduction.
Related on ArniSun
- Shaving vs Waxing vs Epilating: Key Differences
- How to Prepare Your Skin for Hair Removal
- Waxing Aftercare: What to Do After Hair Removal
- Razor Burn vs Ingrown Hairs: Signs and Care
- Laser Hair Removal vs IPL: Key Differences
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Does epilating hurt?
Yes, at first. It stings, because hairs are pulled from the root. It becomes much easier after a few sessions as regrowth gets finer.
How often should I epilate?
About every two to four weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows. Regular sessions hurt less than occasional ones.
Should I epilate wet or dry?
Dry epilation grips hairs slightly better. Epilating in warm water with a wet-and-dry device is gentler, and it is a good choice for beginners.