Get the Skinny on Dermatologist-Approved Epilators (2024)

FAQs

Do dermatologists recommend epilator? ›

"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.

Once you have used your epilator several times you will find your hair growth has slowed and you will be able to reduce the frequency of epilation. It will prolong the time it takes for your hair to grow back but it won't permanently get rid of your hair forever.

A big side effect of epilation is redness and inflammation, because the hair has been pulled out with some force. You will see redness right after epilation, and it may take a couple of hours to subside. Redness is increased if you remove coarser, thicker hair or if your skin is sensitive.

If you're more sensitive or prone to pain, epilation might not be the best for you. On the other hand, if you're willing to stand some pain for less side effects, epilation might be better than waxing for you.

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.

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.

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.

Having a warm bath or shower before you epilate will soften the hairs on your body, whilst gently opening your skin's pores. One of the best things about the Satinelle Advanced Wet & Dry epilator is that you can use it in the bath or shower, an instant way to make epilating hurt less.

Should you moisturize after epilating? ›

Treat your newly smooth skin to the care it deserves after epilating. Gentle exfoliation will clear the surface of the skin again to prevent any ingrown hairs. Then, apply your favourite moisturiser to get your skin super-soft and glowing.

Since epilating tears the hairs out by the roots, you would have red marks wherever a hair was torn out. As the remaining hairs grow back in, your legs will feel prickly.

While an epilator might be uncomfortable or even painful (like waxing), anecdotal evidence suggests that this form of hair removal can prevent strawberry legs from occurring. Skipping shaving cream may also be causing your symptoms, so be sure to carefully moisturize the area before it comes in contact with a razor.

Let your leg hair grow to at least 0.5mm before epilating. However, don't let it grow too long, as shorter hair is less painful to remove. Exfoliation is key before all hair removal methods, and epilation is no exception. Exfoliate your legs gently before epilating to remove all dead skin, dirt and oil.

Epilators are safe to use on your face but need to be used with caution. The skin on the face can be quite fragile so it is important that you are using these correctly, especially if you have sensitive skin. Otherwise, you may experience ingrown hairs and skin irritation.

Though longer lasting than shaving and easier to DIY than waxing, epilation—in which the hair is pulled directly from the root by an electric or manual device—does come with a catch: Because of the way the hair is removed, you're more likely to deal with ingrown hairs after the fact.

Myth no. 4 - Hair Grows Back Thicker. Fact: No, your hair growth remains the same. Rather using the best quality epilator for the facemay result in finer and reduced hair growth.