Which epilator is better to buy, expert advice

How does an epilator work?

The most popular are two types of epilators:

• Disc epilator

The products operate by rotating disks. As they rotate, they come into contact with each other and catch hairs, pulling them out.

• Tweezer epilator

The most common type of device. It is based on metal plates. They pinch, grab, pull and pull out hairs.

The principle of operation of a laser epilator

The laser heats the cells that contain melanin. The beam enters the tip of the hair and moves towards the bulb, destroying it. The action happens in a matter of seconds. The procedure is painless, you only feel warmth.

The principle of operation of the photoepilator

The work is based on selective photothermolism. A special lamp emits light. The impulse passes through the skin, generating thermal energy. It affects the melanin contained in the hair.

Heat flows to the hair follicle, causing it to atrophy and the follicle to be destroyed. Hair growth stops.

The more melanin the hair contains (the darker it is), the more effective the procedure will be. The reason lies in the ability of dark colors to absorb light better. For light and fine hairs, the use is considered ineffective.

How the trimmer works

A trimmer is a special device for targeted hair removal. Often used for eyebrows, nose, ears. No other type of epilator can cope with these tasks. Common areas of application are the armpits and bikini line.

Trimmers operate on batteries. At the base of the cutting element there are two rows of strong metal blades. The lower teeth are fixed in one position, and the upper ones move.

Power is supplied to the device, two lines of teeth are activated. They open and close, cutting off hairs.

Types of epilators

Depending on the design and principle of operation, the following types of epilators are distinguished.

1. Disk. The device is based on rotating discs that pluck hairs when they come into contact with each other. These models are the prototype of modern tweezers.

2. Tweezers. The operating principle of a tweezer epilator differs from a disk epilator in that its design uses metal plates instead of rotating disks. Such devices are characterized by higher efficiency and speed.

There are, of course, laser and photoepilators with a completely different operating principle, but they are usually used in beauty salons. Although today models have begun to be produced for home use, they have not yet become widespread due to their high cost and large number of application nuances.

Types and functions of epilators

Epilator

It is a small device that fits comfortably in your hand. The main part consists of tweezers. As the rotating head moves, they grab and pull out hairs.

If you use a regular or rotary razor, the hairs grow faster and become noticeable. And the epilator pulls them out along with the roots. Growth slows down, and a new bulb appears up to 4 weeks.

The multi-tweezer system allows you to remove very short pieces of length from 0.5 mm. Some models do 600-700 pinches per second.

Photoepilator

A device for painless removal of unwanted hair. Thanks to high-precision light radiation, the effect is on the root, causing growth to stop or stop altogether.

Previously, such procedures were carried out only in salons, but now household photoepilators have appeared.

Trimmer

Trimmers are divided into two types:

• with a wide working plate;
• with a narrow working plate.

The wide surface covers a larger area, shaving faster. Using a narrow cutting element, patterns and original shapes are created, and hard-to-reach places are processed.

The package usually includes two attachments:

• clean shave,
• trimming to a certain length.

The first makes the skin smooth, the second leaves the required hair length. The devices are also used to create intimate hairstyles.

Laser epilator

Requires long-term use to achieve lasting results. First, the heat wave absorbs the melanin in the hair. It becomes thinner, and after several procedures the bulb dies.

Complete removal will require 4-5 procedures, depending on the structure and individual characteristics of hair growth. It is impossible to achieve results in one session. Therefore, laser hair removal takes a long time. The interval between procedures takes 3-4 weeks.

It is not recommended to use a laser epilator on dark skin. It contains melanin, which is absorbed by the heat wave. If you carry out the procedure, burns or age spots will appear.

Nozzles

Cooling

A special mechanism cools the skin during shaving. The attachment reduces irritation, reduces discomfort from the procedure, and makes removal less painful. The cooling nozzle is made in the form of a container with water. Before the procedure, it must be cooled in the refrigerator.

Epilation

A standard nozzle for removing hair along with the root, works on the principle of plucking. The skin becomes smooth for quite a long time. But the sensation of tearing out is unpleasant and painful.

Sometimes irritation occurs, which is eliminated by using special cosmetics.

Peeling

The attachment is used for skin care after epilation. Purpose - to exfoliate the top layer of the surface. Ingrown hairs are released and further ingrowth is stopped.

Shaving

The attachment includes the electric shaver function. The removable shaving head allows you to quickly and painlessly get rid of hair. But they also grow quickly.

The use of this attachment is recommended for the bikini line and armpits, since there are many nerve endings here and vibro-epilation causes discomfort.

Spot removal

The nozzle is equipped with a small number of tweezers arranged in one row. It allows you to treat small areas of skin. Spot removal removes lone hairs that remain after hair removal.

Number of tongs

Models from different manufacturers are equipped with different numbers of pliers:

• up to 20,
• 21-30,
• 31-40,
• more than 40.

The number of tweezers affects the duration of the procedure and its quality. In modern models with a multi-tweezer system, 20 or more rotating disks are installed. They carry out 600-750 pinches per minute.

Nutrition

Battery

Battery-powered devices allow you to choose any location for the procedure and do not depend on the availability of an outlet at hand. They are autonomous. But the weight increases, which provides additional stress.

Long-term hair removal is difficult. If you forget to charge the epilator, you won't be able to use it quickly. The battery will provide up to 45 minutes of operation.

Mains/battery

This device has a combined power supply. This is convenient: you can connect to electricity at home and use a battery on the road.

Universal power supply allows the device to be used under any circumstances. The cost of a 2 in 1 product is higher, since these models belong to the premium class.

Electric epilator

These products are powered exclusively by electricity, which limits the range of outlets and the length of the cord. But they are always ready for use, and weigh lighter, which adds comfort to the procedure.

When dependent on electricity, use in the bathroom requires special care and is feasible when equipped with an outlet.

Number of speeds

Epilators have from 1 to 3 speeds. Most products have two shaving speeds for different hair types and areas.

• First

Mode for fine and short hairs. If they are removed at high speed, the jerk occurs too sharply, they break off, and bristles remain. A long procedure in this mode brings discomfort, so there is a different speed for different hair types.

• Second

Suitable for areas with long and/or coarse hairs. They require strong tugs to remove. In this mode, the duration of the procedure is reduced and discomfort is minimized.

For delicate areas, such as the armpit, a low speed is recommended.

Epilator functions

Epilator with light

This function illuminates the area where the device is working. The process is controlled more carefully, and the result is better. A small lamp is built inside, sometimes equipped with a mirror. The attachment is designed for deep epilation of the bikini area.

Wet hair removal

It is allowed to use the device with water and cosmetics. This is gentle on the skin, eliminates irritation, and relieves discomfort. The performance is higher than that of dry shaving.

Floating head

The floating head removes hair better on curves and under the knees. Suitable for treating the bikini line.

Massager

A special device that makes massage movements during the procedure. Due to the intensity of the massage, pain is reduced, blood circulation and the appearance of the skin are improved.

Rollers relieve discomfort during hair removal. The massaging wheels rotate simultaneously with the working part of the product.

For the bikini area, choose products with an anesthesia option. For sensitive skin, massager attachments or a container of frozen liquid are suitable.

How epilators work

It’s hard to imagine that several centuries ago society ladies invited home specially trained girls who used tweezers to pluck out hairs on their legs, armpits and arms. Such manipulations lasted for the whole day and caused a lot of pain.

Fortunately, modern girls have the opportunity to buy an epilator, which was created to quickly remove hairs along with the root. The simplest device has several built-in metal tweezers or disks, which, when turned on, rotate and capture hairs.

The rotation of the device is regulated by speed modes. In addition to this function, there are special epilator attachments suitable for different areas.

A breakthrough in cosmetology was the emergence of home laser and electric epilators. These devices also remove hair from the roots, but do not capture it, but act with specific waves, destroying unnecessary vegetation.

Using an epilator on the legs and armpits

Advantages and disadvantages of an epilator

Advantages of using an epilator over other methods of removing unwanted hair:

• the device is easy to operate, store and clean;
• the procedure can be easily mastered on your own;
• long-lasting results due to the elimination of hair roots - about 2-4 weeks;
• low price, relative to regular procedures in salons;
• hairs grow back gradually and do not have hard edges, like after shaving;
• no additional tools or means are required;
• does not injure the skin with cuts and abrasions, as can happen when using a razor;
• There is a huge selection of epilators on the market, which allows you to choose the ideal option for yourself.

The result of using an epilator before and after
. There are not many disadvantages, but for some girls they may seem quite significant:

• the procedure is painful - it is especially problematic to use an epilator for those with very sensitive skin;
• the whole process is quite long when compared with depilation;
• The epilator makes quite a loud noise during operation;
• the inability of tweezers to grasp hairs that are too short; first you will have to grow them a little;
• Ingrown hairs or irritation may occur after epilation.

Most flaws can be made less pronounced. In addition, the skin has remarkable properties to get used to constant exposure and stop noticing discomfort. Buying an epilator, as a rule, is worth it even if there are minor drawbacks.

Choosing an epilator

There is now a huge range of epilator models on the market. The first step is to decide on the type of device. Usually, a convenient type of hair capture can only be revealed while using the device, so girls, when buying a device for the first time, prefer simple, inexpensive models. When choosing among tweezer and disc epilators, you should pay attention to the following parameters:

• nozzle width;
• power supply system (mains or battery);
• Possibility of use in water;
• the presence of special attachments for delicate areas;
• is there a backlight;
• availability of tools to relieve pain;
• how loud the device is;
• starting from what length the device removes hairs;
• size, weight and material of the device;
• Is it comfortable to hold the device in your hand?

The basis of the epilator market is represented by well-known brands, among which the most popular are:

1. Braun epilators are a company that has a device for any functional request and budget. Silk-epil models remove even half a millimeter hairs. Depending on the price, the kit includes all the necessary attachments and a cooling mitten.
2. Panasonic - the brand is represented by multifunctional epilators that work with an increased level of protection and comfort. Most models have a floating head for ease of passage on uneven areas of the skin.
3. Rowenta epilators are especially famous for their developed Soft Sensation technology. The company pays great attention to the maximum elimination of pain. To do this, the epilator has a special massage attachment built into it, and also has a cold air function.
4. Philips - has in its line very ergonomic models of epilators that allow the device to fit easily into the hand and not slip off. Devices with the Opti-start effect can almost completely minimize discomfort. Also, these devices are famous for their high-quality assembly, and, accordingly, long service life.

The best epilator companies
The choice of laser epilators, as well as electrical devices, is a more serious process that must take into account the color of the skin and hairs. Therefore, such devices are selected individually, especially when it is necessary to determine the emitted wavelength.

Advantages

Pros of an epilator

• Getting rid of hair for a long time.
• The procedure can be easily performed at home.
• Most models do not require cream or wax.
• Easy cleaning.
• Compact size.

Pros of a trimmer

• The biggest advantage is the compact size of the device. Outwardly, it may resemble a pen or be slightly wider. Therefore, it is easy to take it with you anywhere in a woman’s purse.
• The most accurate execution of patterned haircuts in the intimate area.
• Selectable hair length.
• The procedure is absolutely painless.
• The skin is not irritated since there is no direct contact.
• Affordable price.
• Long service life.
• Easy care thanks to the included brush.
• Safety of use.

Advantages of photoepilators

• The product is safe, minimal impact on the skin, the structure and viability of cells is preserved.
• No pain even for sensitive skin. The person feels small warm touches.
• If safety precautions are observed, harm to the body is excluded.
• The result is noticeable after the first use.
• Ease of use due to its miniature size; It is acceptable to take with you, as it takes up little space.
• Fast site processing.
• Can be used for any area of ​​the body.

Advantages of a laser epilator

• The procedure is painless and comfortable.
• Use is permissible on all parts of the body.
• Scars and burns are excluded.
• Fast procedure.
• Removal efficiency.

What is a photoepilator?

A photoepilator is a very good device, but the result will not be visible immediately. The areas of the body treated with it will get rid of vegetation only after 1.5 - 2 years. After epilation with this device, hair will never grow back.

The photoepilator works using light flashes. They are the ones that affect the hair follicles containing melanin. This substance absorbs the radiation sent, resulting in overheating and death of the follicle. The effectiveness of using a photoepilator depends on the amount of melanin: the blacker the hair, the better the result.

Problems

Cons of an epilator

• Painful sensations during the procedure. They can be eliminated by adding various attachments and limiters.
• Many models make a lot of noise.
• The procedure takes a long time.

Cons of laser epilator

• Restrictions for use by people with dark skin and blond hair.
• Small grip area, which results in a long hair removal process.
• The need for numerous procedures to achieve effect.
• Unpleasant tingling sensation during treatment of a body area.
• High cost of the product.

Disadvantages of a photoepilator

• It is forbidden to conduct a session on tanned skin.
• The appearance of pigmentation on the body.
• Overheating causes itching and flaking.

Cons of a trimmer

• Frequent repetition of hair cutting, as it grows back after 2 days.
• The procedure does not leave the skin smooth.

Disadvantages of laser epilator

• Removal of the hair follicle at a depth of 2-3 mm.
• This process dries out the skin.
• Light hairs are not removed.

The use of a laser epilator is prohibited during pregnancy and breastfeeding, with varicose veins, skin diseases and hormonal imbalances.

Problems after the procedure

Bad result

• Incorrect movement of the device. Move the epilator against the hair growth.
• The angle of placement of the epilator head is incorrect. The location should be at an angle of 90° relative to the surface of the treated area.

Swelling

Disappears within 2-7 days. Apply ice constantly. Avoid direct sunlight.

Infection

A rare occurrence after burns or injuries. A doctor's consultation is required.

Bruising

Sometimes bruises appear, which disappear after 5-10 days.

Which epilator is better

Material of manufacture

Metal tweezers

Composition: stainless steel. Inexpensive material, but the products have a significant drawback: hairs break off or are missed. And after some time, the cutting elements become dull.

Ceramic tweezers

The products are expensive, but the benefits when used are noticeable. Ceramics ensures complete capture of each hair, tearing it out by the roots. Sensitive skin perceives this composition much better.

Appearance

The product should suit you not only from an aesthetic point of view, but also be comfortable to use. Easy to lie down, easy to handle. The attachments can be removed without difficulty, the buttons can be pressed. Check and evaluate how you feel from the device.

Additional functions

• Convenient handle, similar to a razor holder.
• Noise-reducing mechanisms will protect you from loud buzzing.
• The waterproof housing makes it possible to use the device while taking a shower or bath, which is more comfortable. Less irritation appears on steamed skin.

Removable head

After the procedure, the cutting element is clogged with hair. For cleaning, use a small brush that comes with the device. But it is not possible to remove all the contents.

The removable head can be rinsed under running water to quickly remove accumulated hairs. These tweezers last longer.

Beginner attachment

A special limiting nozzle that partially covers the working head and tweezers. The grip area is reduced and discomfort is reduced.

The attachment does not bring significant benefits, since for a smooth shave it is still better to remove it. Delicate skin is not injured. There is no irritation.

Guarantee

For all types of epilators, the standard warranty is one year, unless the manufacturer extends the period.

The warranty is valid from the date of purchase of the product.

Circumstances under which the warranty does not apply:

• If the device is damaged due to the fault of the buyer, due to improper or careless operation.
• If the product is worn out.
• There are defects that do not affect the functionality of the device.
• If the repair was not carried out by a service center.
• Non-original spare parts were used.

Malfunctions

• The device is not charging

The problem is a faulty battery or charging mechanism. When the breakdown becomes more specific, equipment replacement is required.

• The device does not turn on

If it is powered by mains, check the integrity of the wire and connections. If you are dependent on the battery, this may be the cause. Or the board or power controller has burned out.

• Poor hair removal

Many people think that the knives are dull, but high-quality devices have self-sharpening knives. Most likely the head is clogged and requires deep cleaning.

• Doesn't grab hair

Check the integrity of the nozzle, replace if necessary. It may just need a complete cleaning.

Manufacturers

Braun

A German company that produces premium equipment. The product is manufactured in the best factories, strictly tested, and subject to a manufacturer’s warranty. Massaging rollers relieve pain.

Some devices come with a cooling mitt to help relieve irritation. Thanks to the built-in fingers in the bikini epilator, even small hairs are lifted, which makes the skin perfectly smooth. Battery-powered devices operate for 40 minutes.

Panasonic

The range of epilators is quite wide. These are simple models without additional functions, attachments and expensive products. Double disc system, heads move in different planes, attachments for peeling, sanding feet, bikini and armpit lines, limiters.

All devices are characterized by low noise. Some models are equipped with backlighting.

New epilators support dry and wet hair removal procedures. The ES-WU series has 24 tweezers, dry depilation method and one speed.

ES-ED models charge for an hour and work without a break for half an hour. All devices have two operating speeds. These models are equipped with 48 tweezers and a special disk system.

Philips

The devices guarantee high-quality hair removal, as they are equipped with a wide SatinPerfect head, together with ceramic discs, they remove all hairs in one movement. Even simple models are equipped with an active vibration system to handle inconvenient places.

The products operate at two speeds, the minimum number of tweezers is 21. The devices are easy to clean, which provides excellent hygiene performance with frequent use.

Expensive models include an attachment for a perfect shave; it glides along the contours of the body and is placed at a favorable angle.

Particularly noteworthy is the Philips SatinPerfect model. The device is designed to care for all parts of the body, including the face. Charges in an hour, runs for 40 minutes. Additionally, the package includes a mirror, tweezers, an attachment for intimate areas, and a travel case.

Rowenta

All devices are equipped with 24 tweezers arranged in a checkerboard pattern. This is considered the most effective method of hair removal. Models are equipped with two operating speeds.

Simple devices from the Fashion series are designed for dry skin treatment; they operate on mains power, without additional attachments. The function of pain relief is performed by massage balls; the head is ordinary, but can be easily washed under running water.

Expensive models of the Silence Soft line are dry hair removal devices. Multifunctional, as they are equipped with 5 attachments (peeling, shaving, sensitive area, bikini trimmer, limiter).

The case is made using a special technology, so it is silent. The package includes pain-relieving balls, but even with them it is painful to treat the armpit area. A number of devices have a wet hair removal function.

Silk'n

A distinctive feature of the company is the production of photoepilators. It is based on special HPL™ technology, which includes a unique skin color sensor. The safety mechanism warns against using the device on dark and tanned areas.

The Silk'n Glide method has been tested by dermatologists and is completely safe for home use. The device only works when in contact with the skin. Damage to vision is excluded.

You can remove hair using photoepilation from all parts of the body, including the face. Home appliances do an excellent job of removing hair from the active growth phase.

TouchBeauty

The company produces compact pink trimmers. A popular waterproof model for use in the shower. Powered by batteries, which guarantees independent operation of the product.

The cutting element is represented by a double steel blade with a superfine mesh. The device operates at one speed. But it is quite enough, since the razor does not cause discomfort.

Vitesse

French brand. Model VS-961 in soft pink color belongs to the middle class in terms of price and quality. The advantage of the device is that it works on mains power; the battery holds a charge for half an hour.

The package includes a comb attachment and a stand for long-term charging. The speed is the same. Caring for the product is simple, as a special brush is included. Wet hair removal is allowed.

The Vitesse VS-374 model is presented in black and blue. Outwardly it looks like a razor. Combined power supply - from the mains and battery. The charge lasts about 40 minutes.

The package includes a stand and a case for storing the device.
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What materials are epilators made from?

The design of the epilator varies. Depending on its type. Only novice cosmetologists use compact devices in salons. Larger salons prefer massive, high-performance equipment.

A standard epilator is a device similar to a hair dryer or home telephone. The body is made of high quality plastic. The entire functioning system is built inside this housing. The cutting discs or laser are located on the remote element.

The place of the device that comes into contact with the skin is called the head. At its tip there are the main skin-processing devices. If it is a disk-based equipment, it has several plates or disks with sharp tips built into it. They are made from stainless steel or ceramics. Very thin type. Ceramic blades (tweezers) are considered more acceptable for salon procedures. Unlike steel discs, they do not become dull, therefore, they are more durable. In addition, ceramic epilators are more effective at removing hair. After switching on, such plates come into contact with each other and, capturing hairs, remove them from the skin.

The epilator head can be removable or solid. The first option is much more convenient for hygiene procedures. That is, after each client you can remove the head, clean it and prepare it for subsequent work.

Modern, more expensive epilators have convenient additional features. This includes lighting, a trimmer, and separate attachments for intimate areas. Illuminated devices have built-in bulbs that illuminate the treated area. This has a great effect on the result. The master can examine even the lightest and smallest hairs.

Epilators operate from the mains or batteries. There are also universal models that can operate on both battery and mains power.

Epilator attachments

Epilator with trimmer