Depilator and epilator: what is the difference, which is better

Differences between epilation and depilation

Many people think that the difference between hair removal and depilation is only in pronunciation. This is wrong. The procedures are carried out with different devices and devices. Epilation is done using equipment that removes not only the surface part of the hair, but also destroys its subcutaneous structure - the follicle (bulb). This gives a long lasting effect. In cosmetology, hair removal is carried out using several methods:

• electric hair removal, when the follicle is “burned” by a small electrical discharge;
• photoepilation with intense flashes of light affects the hair root;
• Laser hair removal uses a laser beam as a working tool.

Many people cannot afford hair removal equipment. It is more convenient and cheaper to go to a salon for hair removal.

Epilation involves the destruction of the hair follicle

Depilation involves removing only the superficial part of the hair. Many ladies carry it out on their own, at home. No matter how the procedure is carried out (and options are possible: mechanical, electric depilatory and chemical), the result will not last long, from several days to several weeks. Despite the short-term effect, depilation is the choice of the majority. It can be done as often as necessary (there are no side effects or contraindications like hair removal), it can be done at home, on your own, and hair removal costs orders of magnitude cheaper.

Pros and cons of depilation and hair removal

Despite some similarities between hair removal and depilation, there are many differences that are important to consider when choosing the optimal procedure.

Let's take a closer look at each procedure so you can decide which one is best for you.

Pros and cons of depilation

Pros and cons of hair removal

Also keep in mind that not all hair removal methods are universal. Thus, laser hair removal is not recommended for light, fine hairs, since the equipment does not always notice and effectively remove them, which is due to the low content of melanin pigment in the structure.

Types of depilatory devices

Today you can find a fairly wide range of depilatory devices on the market:

• Shaver;
• chemical creams;
• electrical devices.

Razor

The oldest tool here is considered to be a razor. Modern technical improvements of this device make it possible to significantly simplify the depilation process - devices with three and even five heads are produced for this purpose. There are also varieties - trimmers and stylers, powered by batteries or mains (women use them to work with the bikini area). Mobile and compact, they become a frequent travel companion.

However, users note that after using these tools, hair grows back quickly and only becomes stiffer. Another disadvantage is that after a razor the amount of hair growth only increases.

Depilatory cream

Special creams for removing unwanted hair became widespread in the early nineties. They also remove only the surface layer. But at the same time, their special formula allows hair to grow after the procedure much slower than when using a razor. In fact, such creams only dissolve the visible part of the hair.

Electrical appliances

Electrical devices affect hair mechanically. The brands Braun, Philips and Rowenta have achieved great success in this matter. Such devices are mistakenly called epilators, because their effect on the hair is temporary, they do not eliminate the problem forever.

Devices of this type can be disk, spring or tweezer. The latest model is the most refined and effective.

Hair removal nuances

In order for epilation to lead to a positive result and after the first time you do not want to get rid of your epilator, you should follow some rules.

Contraindications

Varicose veins, blood diseases, infectious and viral diseases are serious contraindications for hair removal. After all, a violation of the hair structure can lead to aggravation of the situation. You should also avoid the procedure if you have heart disease or during pregnancy due to the possibility of painful shock.

Girls under 18 years of age are not recommended to undergo the procedure of complete permanent hair removal, as this may cause undesirable consequences in the body.

At home, you can start doing depilation from the age when “extra” hair appears on the body. The first hairs may be light, thin and unnoticeable, but you should not prohibit your child from removing them if they cause discomfort.

Preparation before epilation

A few days before hair removal, you need to carefully prepare your skin, namely, steam it and exfoliate it with a body scrub. This exfoliates dead cells and helps fight ingrown hairs. The optimal length of hair for hair removal is half a millimeter, since removing long hair is painful and small hair is inconvenient. After 2-3 days have passed, all that remains for you is to steam your skin well in the bath and begin the procedure. The areas of the body to be treated should be dry and clean unless your epilator is designed for use under water.

For the first time, you need to try the device at low speed and get used to the sensations. It is worth stretching the skin a little to ease the pain and running the epilator against the hair growth. The procedure will take from 30 minutes to 1.5 hours.

On a note. Applying Emla cream will help relieve pain during hair removal. However, it is worth noting that the product is not a budget product, moreover, the package contains 5 tubes of 5 grams each, and to fully implement the procedure you will have to use all of them.

Consequences of the procedure

Whether it's epilation or regular depilation with a razor, skin irritation is inevitable. It usually disappears the next day, so it is better to carry out the procedure in the evening. But it won’t hurt to treat the skin with a softening lotion or anti-inflammatory cream. A cold compress will also help relieve irritation and reduce pain.

The problem of ingrown hairs can be solved using tweezers or a needle, after steaming the skin and disinfecting the instrument. If you can’t get the hair out, you should contact a cosmetologist.

Ingrown hairs on the legs can turn into a real problem if measures are not taken in time to get rid of them.

Epilation is a very painful procedure, but it is worth it. If you follow all the rules, you can enjoy smooth skin for two to four weeks. From regular use of the epilator, you will gradually get used to the sensations, and over time, hairs in some areas may stop growing altogether.

In order for the device to last for a long time, you need to regularly clean it with the special brushes included in the kit. If they are not there, an effective method is to clean them with a vacuum cleaner with small attachments. Always remember that an epilator is a personal hygiene product and only you can use it.

Video: secrets of painless hair removal

Which procedure includes sugaring: epilation or depilation?

Sugaring refers to depilation, despite the fact that during the procedure the hairs are removed from the roots. Many salon visitors (and hairdressers) think that this is hair removal. No, if the hair follicle (the sac in which the hair root was) remains in place, the hair will grow back. Sugaring mechanically pulls out the hair, sometimes damaging the follicle. But in most cases the latter remain in place. The hairs in these places often grow thin, underdeveloped (not as hard and lighter). Therefore, the general impression is that sugaring is almost as effective as hair removal.

Sugaring also does not completely remove the hair follicle, therefore it is classified as depilation.

Sugaring in its effect turns out to be something between depilation and hair removal. The follicles are damaged, and full-fledged hard hairs no longer grow. During depilation, on the contrary, only the upper part is removed, and at this time the follicles receive more nutrition and are strengthened. New hairs grow even faster, darker and thicker. Sugaring is often called sugar hair removal.

This procedure gives, in a general sense, a temporary effect, but quite long-term (a new procedure will be required no earlier than in 2-3 weeks).

The same can be said about waxing. Today it is less popular than hair removal with sugar paste. However, these procedures are similar in essence. In both cases, the effect on the hair will be similar, and the frequency of procedures will be the same.

What is the difference between an epilator and a depilator?

Before you figure out how an epilator differs from a depilator, it is important to understand the essence of the procedures that are performed using these devices.

Despite the fact that epilation and depilation are completely different techniques for removing unwanted hair from the body, many people often confuse them. If the first procedure involves the total removal of hairs with damage to their root system, then the second is only a temporary removal of the bulbs, after which they recover quite quickly.

When performing hair removal, the natural processes in tissues responsible for the regeneration of hair follicles and hair growth are disrupted, so the effect of the procedure lasts much longer.

Epilators and depilators, respectively, are devices with which certain techniques are performed.

Depilators are now used much more often, which is due to their availability and ease of use:

1. Razor.
2. Depilatory cream.
3. Sugar paste for sugaring.
4. Wax base for waxing.
5. Devices for mechanical hair removal (depilators).

Epilators cannot be used independently; they are used only in the salon by certified specialists. Hair removal methods include the following procedures:

1. Photoepilation.
2. Laser hair removal.
3. Electrolysis.
4. Thermal hair removal.

With proper hair removal, you can get rid of unwanted hair in the treated area for several years or even forever, but there are many more contraindications to it.

Hair removal options

Depilator and epilator - what is the difference? Perhaps this is best illustrated by hair removal procedures, which are characterized by complete removal of the hair along with its follicle. The following types are distinguished here:

• photo;
• laser;
• elos;
• thermolysis;
• galvanic electrolysis;
• blend method.

They differ from each other in the method of influence and the technical features of the device.

1. Photoepilation is hair removal using a light pulse from krypton lamps. The energy of their heat waves is absorbed by melanin, which kills the hair. This method is more effective for dark hair, but for gray hair it shows zero results.

2. Laser hair removal is the treatment of hair with a laser. The procedure will give absolutely smooth skin, but this result is achieved only after attending sessions for many months. Neodymium laser is recommended for all skin and hair types. Unlike photo hair removal, laser hair removal is effective on all types of hair.

3. Elos hair removal is a shock combined dose of radio waves and light energy. A specially selected wavelength destroys the follicle. The technique does not cause discomfort and is safe. For total relief you will have to take at least ten courses.

4. Thermolysis is the killing of hair follicles using electric current. The device has an electrode inserted into the follicle - it destroys the root along with the stem. The method is considered very uncomfortable - you have to additionally numb the surface of the skin.
5. Galvanic electrolysis refers to the decomposition of follicles through a chemical reaction. Achieved by continuously passing current through a saline solution.
6. The blend method combines thermolysis and chemical exposure.

Difference between epilation and depilation

Several years ago, removing part of the hair located on the surface of the epidermis was called depilation. The advantages of the procedure include ease of application, ease of use and accessibility. You don't need any special knowledge or skills to get rid of hair in a few minutes. The technique has a short-term effect - after a couple of days the skin loses its smoothness and a small stubble appears.

Waxing

Epilation was commonly called the extraction of hair from the root. The procedure has a longer lasting effect - the skin surface remains smooth for up to 2 weeks. However, the emergence of innovative technologies has led to the fact that cosmetology terminology has been revised.

Both methods were classified as depilation:

• visible surface removal of unwanted vegetation;
• extracting hair from the root without damaging the bulb.

The method in which the hair follicle is completely destroyed was given the honorary title of hair removal. There is information that the main difference between the procedures is the place where they are carried out - depilation can be done at home, while hair removal has a place in the salon.

The modern market offers various hair removal devices that can be used at home.

Difference between epilator and depilator

The products differ in their operating principles:

• the depilator removes unwanted vegetation located on the surface of the epidermis;
• The epilator has a destructive effect on the hair bulb and follicle.

Also among the differences, cosmetologists cite the effectiveness of the method and the cost of the procedure. Depilators are considered a budget way to remove hair; epilators will cost a pretty penny, even if you conduct sessions at home.

Depilation products include:

1. Shaver. Affordable price, minimal procedure time - and the shortest effect. There are no contraindications for use, but sensitive skin may develop irritation and ingrown hairs.
2. Depilatory cream. It is worth choosing this method if you have sensitive skin or a low pain threshold. The chemical composition of the cream dissolves the surface part of the hair without affecting the skin in the process. Among the disadvantages, experts cite the unpleasant odor and the duration of the procedure - “dissolution” can take up to 20 minutes.

   
   Sugar depilation

3. Wax. An adhesive mass is applied to areas with unwanted vegetation, which, after hardening, is removed from the body along with the hairs. Some skill and practice are required, there is a high risk of getting burned when using hot wax.
4. Sugaring. The depilatory agent is a thick sugar paste. Compared to the previous method, this is a gentle and less painful procedure.
5. Depilatory. The operating principle of the device is based on massive and rapid plucking of hairs. Many models are equipped with a massaging or cooling effect to reduce pain during manipulation.

It is necessary to first prepare the skin for depilation by steaming it in the shower or bath. After the procedure, you will have to regularly scrub the treated areas of the body to prevent ingrown hairs.

Hair removal cannot be used to remove unwanted hair once; you will need a course of sessions. Among the popular methods, the most common are:

1. Photoepilation. It is carried out during the active stage of hair growth and destroys the bulb with a light flash.
2. Laser. The radiation affects the hair follicle and the vessels from which it is fed.
3. Thermolysis. A painful procedure based on the destruction of the bulb with electric current. Anesthesia will be required before the procedure.
4. Elos. Tandem radio waves with light effects on follicles.
5. Galvanic electrolysis. An electric current passes through the saline solution - and as a result of a chemical reaction, the bulb is destroyed.
6. Blend method. Successfully combines galvanic method and thermolysis. It is the most effective and painful procedure.

   
   Photoepilation

What do you choose: depilation or hair removal?

Epilation

100%

Depilation

0%

Voted: 1

There are a number of contraindications for using epilators, which you need to familiarize yourself with before starting the course.

What to choose: hair removal or depilation

Those who use depilation are satisfied with the results of the procedure and recommend it to others. Hair is shaved well, painlessly and quickly. If we talk about sugaring and waxing, the skin immediately after the procedure is smooth, without inflammation. In addition, sugar paste has a scrubbing effect, removing the stratum corneum of the skin. Another plus: this procedure is inexpensive and can be done independently. A serious drawback is the short-term effect. Just a few days, and the procedure must be repeated. This is not everywhere and not always convenient.

Epilation is effective. In a course of procedures you can get rid of excess hair almost completely and almost forever. Those hairs that “survive” will become sparse, thin and light. In addition to the most obvious drawback - the price of equipment for home hair removal and salon procedures is considerable, there is also a large list of contraindications, the painfulness of the treatment itself.

In the end, it's hard to say which is better. It all depends on the situation, hair and skin type, financial capabilities and a whole list of factors.

1. Skin type and its features. For those with thin, sensitive skin, it is better not to use razors and tweezers. For them, the best option for depilation is chemical exposure with special creams. Ladies with thick skin without damage, not prone to rashes and tolerant of pain can afford hair removal.
2. Pain threshold. Hair removal is not suitable for girls who are intolerant to pain. In this case, it is better to use a razor or creams.
3. Hair color. If the hairs are light, almost transparent, depilatory cream is more than enough. Dark hair will have to be removed using more radical methods.
4. Financial aspect. If you calculate the cost of all procedures in the long term, then depilation will not benefit much from hair removal. You need to use creams or razors often, but a salon procedure is enough to do once every few months. In an annual financial context, the cost will be almost the same, and the purchase of a home epilator will quickly pay off.

What is depilation?

But depilation is a method of hair removal in which the root of the hair is not pulled out. We can say that this is a mechanical way of getting rid of unwanted hair.

Types of depilation:

1. Shaving. An ineffective method that injures the skin.
2. Special creams and gels. The most painless and easiest method.
3. Wax. Depilation with hot, warm and cold wax.
4. Sugaring. Hair removal with sugar paste.
5. Electric depilator. Pulls out hairs with miniature tweezers.

There are also contraindications when using a depilator. These are allergic reactions, dermatitis, eczema and psoriasis, diseases of fungal, bacterial, viral etiology; diabetes; epilepsy; burns (sunburns are no exception); cuts, sores, abrasions, low pain, various colds, and you cannot use a depilator 3 before and 3 days after menstruation and during menstruation itself.

What is better to choose: depilator or epilator?

Due to the features and varieties of the described inventions, many users cannot make a choice. If you don’t know which is better, an epilator or a depilator, consider:

• first inventions are more expensive;
• epilators have a longer lasting effect. The end result is complete removal of the hair follicles, which is accompanied by the final cessation of hair growth;
• depilators can be used independently without worrying about the effectiveness of the work done;
• epilators provide for achieving the smoothest skin possible;
• Depilation, according to most experts, is a less harmful procedure for health. But modern specialists and equipment reduce risks to a minimum.

Please note, it’s up to you to decide! Share your opinion.

Types of hair removal

As we have already figured out, hair removal itself is the removal of hair from the root and for a long time. Some treatments are guaranteed to eliminate hair growth in unwanted areas for years.

Among the most popular and effective methods are:

Photoepilation is hair removal with a device equipped with a special lamp that produces heated waves. The rays penetrate the follicles and are absorbed by melanin, which leads to the death of the hair follicle.

Laser procedure – carried out using a device that emits laser radiation. It penetrates deeply and destroys hair from the inside. Unlike photoepilation, the laser procedure takes many months to achieve the desired effect. Suitable for all hair types.

Elos hair removal is a procedure that uses a portion of light exposure in combination with radio waves. This combination is aimed at destroying the follicle. It takes about ten procedures, but the desired effect is achieved.

Thermolysis is a method of hair eradication, that is, it is aimed at destroying the follicle and shaft using current. This procedure is not for particularly delicate people. Brings unpleasant sensations during its implementation.

The blend method is a combination of thermolysis combined with chemical exposure. The merciless and uncomfortable method, however, gives good results.

Epilators

Now briefly about epilators. They can remove hair permanently or for a specific period of time (2-5 weeks).

Sugaring

Sugar depilation will help remove hair for 3-5 weeks. A certain type of paste and application technique (bandage or manual) are selected, the epidermis is prepared and we get to work. The composition is applied to the degreased and disinfected dermis, and after a few seconds it is removed with a jerk. Along with the paste, the hairs will also come out.

During manipulation, pain is felt. To avoid side effects, you need to wait a while with baths, saunas, sports and tanning. Ingrown hairs may appear.

Pros:

• duration of the result;
• Hairs become thinner and less noticeable over time and grow more slowly.

Wax

Another method similar to sugaring is waxing.

Waxing comes in three types:

• cold;
• warm;
• hot.

Cold is suitable for beginners, as the technique is simple. The method is more painful than the other two. Here a ready-made wax strip is glued to the area with hair.

To carry out warm or hot waxing, the mass must be preheated. To do this, use a wax melter, a water bath or a microwave. Wax is applied to the prepared epidermis and removed after seconds.

The result is less durable than after sugaring - 2-4 weeks.

Pros:

• long lasting results;
• rare allergies;
• thinning and thinning of vegetation.

Epilator

You can also use an electric epilator at home. He pulls out the hair by the roots with tweezers or special discs. The result is similar to waxing and sugaring.

Laser epilator

If you have money and time, you can try to get rid of hair forever. Laser hair removal will be complete after completing a course of procedures – 5-10. The laser beam burns the bulb, as a result of which the hair no longer grows.

Pros:

• no irritation;
• the ability to get rid of hair completely and forever;
• Suitable for all areas.

Photoepilator

Photoepilation is a hardware method of permanent hair removal. Light flashes will affect the hair and its root, burning them out. After a series of procedures, the bulb dies and the vegetation no longer grows.

Not suitable for dark-skinned people with a strong tan and light hair.

The cost is high and burns are possible.

Pros:

• minimum pain;
• good result;
• no irritation.

Electric epilator

A salon method in which a needle-electrode or tungsten thread is inserted into the skin and applies current to the hair follicle. Afterwards the hair does not grow. You will have to visit the salon for 6-12 months.

The client will feel pain, which may leave scars.

The main advantage is that the hair is removed forever.