Hair removal methods vary, and some skincare and beauty professionals are turning to epilators – handheld hair removal devices equipped with numerous tweezers – as their preferred way of pulling unwanted facial and body hair from its source. In fact, it has become the go-to method of many YeaPei professionals!
- 1 Facial epilator buying guide
- 2 How To Choose A Facial Epilator And Hair Removal Device
- 3 Tips To Use A Facial Epilator
- 4 What are the benefits of epilating?
- 5 How To Use A Facial Epilator: The Process
- 6 Why Trust YeaPei?
- 7 Are there any side effects?
- 8 Does facial hair grow thicker after epilating?
- 9 Are epilators good for facial hair?
- 10 Do facial epilators make hair grow back thicker?
- 11 How often should you epilate your face?
- 12 Do epilators hurt?
- 13 Does epilation cause stubble?
- 14 Is epilating better than waxing?
- 15 How do you use an epilator?
- 16 How do epilators work?
- 17 Do epilators hurt?
- 18 Is epilating good for your face?
- 19 Do epilators work on peach fuzz?
- 20 Is epilator better than waxing for facial hair?
- 21 Can epilator remove facial hair permanently?
An often underestimated device, epilators are an invaluable way to remove hair without suffering discomfort. DIY hair removal should prioritize an epilator over shaving or waxing at home; while shaving may be inexpensive and painless, both methods require regular upkeep; waxing at home can also be tedious and painful – an epilator may initially seem costly, but over time its cost effectiveness becomes evident; especially considering wax appointments at regular intervals would cost more.
Selecting an epilator that best meets your needs can be tricky, given all of the options on the market. Our YeaPei brings together beauty pros and chemists who test skincare products for safety, efficacy, ease of use and usability – including epilators from various brands and price points – regularly to determine which models provide maximum effectiveness for users. In order to identify which model would make an exceptional epilator we recently conducted a consumer and laboratory test – to discover which brands or price points deliver top performers among consumers.
Below we have put a range of facial epilators through their paces in order to select our favorites. From an all-in-one multipurpose epilator designed for self-care evenings to precision hair removers suitable for on-the-go use, we’ve got something suitable. But before we reveal our recommendations, take some time to learn about epilation and find an epilator suitable for you – by reading on, we hope!
10 Best Facial Epilators of 2023：Tests & Reviews
1.Panasonic, Cordless Shaver Epilator for Women
Panasonic’s Epilator & Shaver System earned the top ranking in the YeaPei most recent epilator test for good reason: It has the highest rating in overall satisfaction (100%), is great for beginners, and has the most speed settings and longest cord length of all the tools tested.
It also showcases a triple-speed motor and has five snap-on attachments that conform to your body, plus a built-in LED light to help better detect each hair. “This was very easy to use and included clear instructions,” a tester noted. “It was a pain-free way to remove hair, and my skin felt very smooth for days!” The only downside: it can’t be used on the face, just from the underarms down.
Pros
- Great for beginners
- Has three speed setting options
- Effective on multiple body parts including legs, underarms and bikini line
Cons
- Cannot be used on the face
2.Braun Epilator Silk-épil 9 9-985
It comes with two exfoliation brushes, nine times more effective in exfoliating and removing dead skin cells and ingrown hairs.
It effortlessly and painlessly removes hair from sensitive areas like underarms or bikini lines. The SensoSmart technology ensures that less pressure is applied to the skin for more effective epilation. This epilator has 25% more tweezers and a 5% wider head for fast and precise epilation. It removes hair from the roots and gives you smooth and flawless results for up to four weeks.
Pros
- Ergonomically designed
- Easy to use
- Cordless use for 50 minutes
- 100% waterproof
Cons
- Overpriced
3.Braun Epilator Silk-epil 3 3-270
It can be used all over the body and has the added benefit of coming with extra heads—a trimmer, razor, and like the aforementioned Braun product, a massaging rolling head to make the experience less painful. Just FYI, it can only be used dry.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Comfortable size to hold
Cons
- Can only be used dry
4.Remington Smooth & Silky Total Coverage Epilator
A winner of the YeaPei test, this epilator’s angled head catches even the shortest hairs and that it has comfort barrels on the head of the epilator that, according to the brand, “helps reduce skin irritation during the hair removal process.”
Testers agreed regarding the efficacy of the hair removal: “I like that it was able to catch most hairs the first time around,” one shared. They also raved about the small, compact size. “It was a nice size and weight,” another said. “It fit in my hand comfortably.” While this epilator works wonders on different body parts, note that it can not be used on the face.
Pros
- Easy to use
- Compact size
- Two speed levels for fine or coarse hair
- Great value
Cons
- Cannot be used on the face
- Doesn’t come with attachments
5.Emjoi AP-18MS Emagine Epilator for Men
It removes most of your unwanted hair in one go while offering silky and smooth skin. The Patented Glide Technology of the device lifts and removes hair by gliding the tweezer discs over the skin painlessly, and its Silver Ion Technology provides antimicrobial protection.
It has dual speed control and is gentle enough to remove delicate facial hair on the upper lips and chin. This device is also great for removing hair on the legs, bikini lines, and underarms. Here’s a personal review video to help you get a better understanding of the product.
Pros
- Dual speed control
- Antimicrobial protection
- Gentle on delicate areas
- Includes 110/240v power cord
- Includes cleaning brush
Cons
- Not long-lasting
6.Finishing Touch Flawless Facial Hair Remover
Technically slightly different than an epilator, this product (yes, it’s the one made famous by the TV infomercials) doesn’t have any tweezers but rather a unique spinning head that smooths peach fuzz on your face down to the surface of your skin. It’s lightweight and portable and also has a built-in LED light to help ensure you never miss any stray hair.
Pros
- Affordable
- Gentle
- Lightweight
- Built-in light
Cons
- Isn’t removing hair at the root
- Only one speed setting
7.Epilady Speed Corded Epilator
Newer models have been released since then, and while it hasn’t been tested in the Lab, reviewers love that that this one is especially great to use on the bikini area and pubic hair. “It’s not as painful to shave down there,” one Amazon reviewer say. Most reviewers thought it did its job well, although some found it less effective at removing hair than other epilators.
Pros
- Two speeds
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Some found it less effective at removing hairs
8.Hair Epilator Shaver Razor Trimmer
It comes with a UV sterilized razor, epilator, and shaver heads for hair removal and a callus head to smoothen the heels. The device is lightweight and portable.
Pros
- Lightweight
- Travel-friendly
- UV sterilized heads
- Suitable for all skin types
- Easy to clean
- Hypoallergenic
Cons
- Not sturdy
9.Philips Epilator Series 8000 5 in 1 Shaver
For starters, it comes with both a specific bikini trimmer comb and a bikini trimmer head so that you can start by getting the hairs down to the right length (epilating hair that’s too long is a recipe for a major ouch factor). Then you can pop on the delicate area cap to epilate this sensitive area. And while it is pricey, it comes with a bunch of other fun attachments, think a pedicure foot file and body exfoliation brush, making it one super versatile tool. Its 40-hour run time is pretty great, as well.
Pros
- Can be used wet or dry
- Versatile
Cons
- Expensive
10.Epilady Esthetic Compact Facial Epilator Face Hair Removal
“It has a convenient and compact design with a small head that’s great for reaching areas that are difficult to get to,” says King of one of her picks. (Though yes, it is great for using on your face as well.) It’s also very lightweight, battery-operated, and comes with both a cleaning brush for the head and an included case, making it ideal for travel, too.
Pros
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Includes a cleaning brush
- Portable
Cons
- Only one speed setting
- Number of tweezers not disclosed
Facial epilator buying guide
Most epilators have a wide head with tons of tweezers, ideal for removing hair on large areas like legs or arms in 10 minutes or less. However, these models are not suitable for the face because their size makes it difficult to target areas like the upper lip or eyebrows. They may feel too rough on more sensitive facial skin, as well.
Facial epilators, on the other hand, are lightweight and compact and designed to be as gentle as possible. They can be used on other sensitive areas (like armpits and bikini lines), and unlike body epilators aimed at hairs 0.5 mm or longer, they can grab hairs as short as 0.2 mm.
Facial models are also typically cheaper, averaging between $20 and $50 — although there are pricier models for over $100. Body epilators, which generally start at $40 and reach upwards of $100, often include several attachments like trimmers and exfoliators.
While the epilator’s size and design are important when it comes to dealing with tight spots and tiny hairs, these are some other factors to take into account when shopping:
- Tweezers. The more tweezers an epilator has, the more hairs it can grab at once and the faster you’ll finish. Most body epilators have 40 or more tweezers. That can feel a bit rough on sensitive areas, so facial epilators usually have 10 to 20 tweezers. To avoid irritation and inflammation, it’s important to use the epilator in the direction of hair growth.
- Speed settings. Most facial epilators operate at a single speed, though some high-end models have two or more speed settings. An epilator with multiple settings will allow you to customize the experience for a gentle, slower session or a quick one. Faster speeds may feel more painful for some, but are more effective with coarse hair. To obtain the best result and have a less painful process, avoid using the epilator on long hair.
- Wet/Dry Epilators. Epilators designed for both wet and dry conditions are waterproof and can be used in or out of the shower. Some people prefer epilating while they shower as warm water can soften hairs, open up hair follicles and reduce pain.
- Power source. Battery-powered facial epilators are less expensive than rechargeable models, going for around $40 or less. However, many users complain that batteries can drain in as little as a single use — especially if they have more than 10 tweezers. Corded epilators cost around the same, without the benefit of portability, of course.
- For the best performance and quality, go for a rechargeable model. These can run anywhere between 40 minutes to up to around two hours before needing to be charged, and can sometimes also be used in the shower. Expect to pay $70 or more, though.
- Body epilators with face attachments. Some body epilators include an attachment specifically designed to target facial hair. The attachment is basically a cap that covers most of the tweezers on the epilator’s head. Reducing the number of tweezers that come into contact with your skin makes the application more targeted, which can reduce pain. However, since the epilating head is meant to be used in wider areas, you may still struggle in tight spaces like the upper lips or between the eyebrows.
How To Choose A Facial Epilator And Hair Removal Device
- Consider The Type: There are different types of epilators on the market. Some shave the hair while others pluck it from the roots. Other hair removal devices include trimmers with shaving blades and springs. The devices that cut the hair are usually painless compared to those that pluck. Choose one as per your pain tolerance levels and ease of use. You can go for the spring if you have fine baby hairs on the face.
- Mode Of Operation: You will get battery-operated and corded devices. Corded epilators are powerful and reliable. However, a battery-operated epilator is more convenient and portable. You need to pick one depending on your requirement.
- Speed: An epilator that offers multiple speeds is a good one. It will give a customized experience, depending on your hair type and comfort levels.
Now that you know the tips and tricks of buying a facial epilator, let’s look at some tips to follow while epilating.
Tips To Use A Facial Epilator
1. Buy A Device Designed For The Face
All epilators are not meant to be used on your face. Some are just meant for the body. Do thorough research, read about the epilators, and see if they are intended to be used on your face. See if they have attachment heads that can be used on your facial areas. You will find that most epilators designed for the face are small and are battery-operated. You may even pick shavers and trimmers.
2. Test On A Small Area Before Beginning
Epilating can be painful, though it is almost the same as using tweezers. But you may experience redness or rashes around the area immediately after using it. Try out the epilator on your hand or on a small area of your face to get used to the feel. Then determine how your skin will react and if you can tolerate the pain.
3. Exfoliate Before Epilating
Taking care of your skin before and after this process is an important step. Exfoliate your face or body before epilating to get rid of the dead skin cells and other dirt and impurities. This will reduce the risk of ingrown hairs. After hair removal, keep the skin moisturized.
4. Using A Non-Comedogenic Moisturizer
This can help keep the epilated skin smooth without clogging the pores. Moisturizing the skin after epilation also helps avoid redness and irritation.
5. Make Sure The Hair Length Is Right
The hair should be approximately 2-3 millimeters and not more than that. If your hair is too long, the device will just cut the head of your hair instead of removing it from the roots. Similarly, if your hair is too short, the tool cannot grasp it.
What are the benefits of epilating?
Ok, apart from the obvious – super-smooth legs for weeks – there are so many benefits to epilating. Firstly, if you’re prone to shaving rashes, nicks and cuts, the epilator is your friend. You can kiss goodbye to those tiny paper-cut shaving wounds that never seem to stop bleeding. Secondly, epilating is so much more cost-effective than that regular wax appointment. Sure, many of the best epilators sit in the triple-figure arena, but once you’ve cancelled a couple of intimate hours with your therapist, your new device will have paid for itself.
How To Use A Facial Epilator: The Process
1. Tug Your Skin Tight
Keep the skin firm and tight as you drag the epilator or the trimmer or razor. Loose skin does not let the epilator grab the hairs. Moreover, the slack areas of skin can get pinched or bruised.
2. Hold The Epilator Perpendicularly
Hold the epilator sideways and not up, down, or parallel to your face or body. The epilator should be perpendicular as you move it across the skin. Make sure you use it in the opposite direction of the hair growth. Gently press the epilator against your skin a little below where you want to remove the hair.
3. Take Your Time
Go slow and steady as you use the epilator. There is no need to rush because that may cause skin irritation.
4. Use A Soothing Cream
Apply a soothing cream or solution after you are finished to help reduce irritation. You may use a non-comedogenic moisturizer or gel.
5. Clean The Epilator
Unplug the epilator, take off the head and use the brush to remove all bits of hair. If your epilator is waterproof, wash it. You can use alcohol to clean the head to remove any bacteria.
Why Trust YeaPei?
The author, YeaPei, is a certified skin care coach. She is constantly looking for ways to make the facial hair removal process smoother and pain-free. She did thorough research and studied thousands of user reviews to curate the list of the best facial epilators and hair removal products. The devices and tools mentioned in the list are ergonomically designed and convenient for the users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any side effects?
The skin reaction from using an epilator differs from one person to another depending on one’s skin type and sensitivity.To answer the question, the side effects that may possibly occur after epilating include the formation of ingrown hair, skin redness, and irritation.
Does facial hair grow thicker after epilating?
No.
Epilating involves the process of removing hair from the roots; therefore, it would take a long time before it grows back. And the hair will eventually grow thinner than the usual regrowth prior to epilating.[1]The 8 best things about epilation
Are epilators good for facial hair?
Yes, epilators are an excellent option for removing facial hair.
Do facial epilators make hair grow back thicker?
No, a facial epilator will not make hair grow back thicker. As the epilator removes the hair from the root, hair grows back finer.
How often should you epilate your face?
An epilator should be used once a fortnight or as per your hair growth rate.[2]How to Use an Epilator on Face?
Do epilators hurt?
Yes. Using an epilator can be painful as it removes hair from the roots.
Does epilation cause stubble?
No, epilation does not cause stubble.
Is epilating better than waxing?
It depends on your discretion. Epilating gives the same result as waxing. However, using an epilator will spare you time and pain.[3]Is an Epilator Better Than Waxing?
How do you use an epilator?
Hold the epilator at a 90-degree angle against clean, exfoliated skin without pressing it in, then use your other hand to hold your skin taut and slowly pass the epilator in the direction of your hair growth. When you’re finished, moisturize your skin to minimize irritation.
How do epilators work?
Epilators work similar to waxing or manual plucking in that they remove hair at the roots. When you run the device along your skin, the tiny tweezers on the wheel grab your hairs and then remove them as it continues to rotate.
Do epilators hurt?
Since the device pulls hair away at the root, there’s an expected “ouch” factor. But like most other forms of hair removal, many people find that it becomes less painful after multiple sessions.
Is epilating good for your face?
Is epilator good for your face? Yes. Using the best facial epilators such as those listed above is a great option if you want a smooth and hair-free face. It’s less painful than threading and less prone to irritation than shaving.
Do epilators work on peach fuzz?
Whether you want to remove a little peach fuzz from your face, smooth your legs, eliminate stubble in your armpits, or experiment with a full-on Brazilian, the best epilators can help. Most of these at-home hair removal devices can be used all over the face and body to get your desired results.
Is epilator better than waxing for facial hair?
The main difference between epilation and waxing is that you need to wait longer between waxing sessions than you do between the times when you epilate, as the hair needs to grow to a longer length before it can be pulled out effectively with wax.
Can epilator remove facial hair permanently?
Electrolysis epilators, also known as medical electrolysis devices, destroy hair using a shortwave radio frequency. Since this type of epilator destroys the hair follicle, you can use it to get rid of unwanted body hair permanently.[4]Using An Epilator For Permanent Hair Removal
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