One of the best hair-removal options, an epilator is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to achieve salon-standard results at home. Here, see everything you need to know about epilation, including the models we trust.
How does an epilator work?
Epilation is a mechanical hair-removal method. Each device contains tiny tweezers, usually installed on a rotating head, which rapidly grasp and pluck out your hairs. A good one will work on strands as short as 0.5mm and, as the process removes the hair right from the root, the results are smoother than shaving and last for weeks.
Is epilating better than waxing?
Like many beauty-related questions, the answer comes down to personal choice. Epilating gives you all the advantages of waxing (including slow regrowth and a visible lack of stubble), without the time-consuming process and inevitable mess.
Epilating can remove shorter hairs too, which tend to grow back finer, while some people also report fewer ingrown hairs. However, the mechanical plucking process can be more painful than waxing, especially when tackling your underarms and bikini line.
What to look for in an epilator
Wet and dry use: Some epilators can only be used on dry skin. If you prefer to epilate in the bath or shower, make sure your chosen model is cordless and waterproof.
Flexibility: Pivoting heads help you reach tricky spots like the backs of your knees, while LED lights illuminate fine hairs that can otherwise be difficult to spot.
Versatility: Look for an epilator that comes with a range of attachments for different areas of your body. These may include precision caps, exfoliating brushes, bikini trimmers and shaving heads.
There's now a wide array of epilators available on the market, and the difference between each model can be baffling. Below, see the devices we've used and been impressed by.
The best epilators for head-to-toe hair removal
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Best epilator
Braun Silk-épil 9 Flex Epilator
1
Best epilator
Braun Silk-épil 9 Flex Epilator
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One of Braun's most advanced models, this white and gold epilator boasts a flexible pivoting head, so glides seamlessly over body contours. Cordless and waterproof, you can use it in the shower and the anti-slip grip makes it perfect for applying just the right amount of pressure – helpful for those frantic mornings. It’s just as effective on dry skin and the handy light brings the finest hairs sharply into focus.
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Best epilator on dry skin
Philips Wet and Dry Epilator
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Best epilator on dry skin
Philips Wet and Dry Epilator
Extreme efficiency is this model’s USP, as it claims to give you smooth legs in just 10 minutes – and we can attest it does just that. This one can be used on wet skin, but we found it to perform better – plucking even the tiniest hairs – when used on dry legs. With eight head attachments, you can trim, exfoliate and shape every part of your body with ease.
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Best facial epilator
Braun FaceSpa Pro 921 Facial Epilator
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Best facial epilator
Braun FaceSpa Pro 921 Facial Epilator
This sleek three-in-one device sensitively epilates, cleanses and tones your face in conjunction with your skincare products. It removes hair instantly, and with minimal pain - four times shorter hairs than waxing, Braun claims. The sonic massage head makes a lovely post-epilation treat, especially when used over a soothing serum. And, with a sleek beauty storage case thrown in, there's little more we could ask for.
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Best epilator for legs
Panasonic ES-EL9A Wet and Dry Cordless Epilator
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Best epilator for legs
Panasonic ES-EL9A Wet and Dry Cordless Epilator
This slick epilator has an extra-wide head, so works quickly to cover larger areas of skin. With 60 tweezer and three speed settings, you'll be able to cover your legs in mere minutes. Its double disk head ensures that every single leftover hair is caught, with the second disk smartly catching all the hairs missed by the first disk. There's also a host of attachments to try out, from an exfoliating brush to a bikini comb and pedicure pumice.
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Best epilator for travel
PluckIt 2 Super Glide Compact Epilator Magnitone
If you're looking for a compact model to stuff in a suitcase, Magnitone's mini option is ideal. It might be small, but it makes light work of removing hair from underarms and legs, and can simply be recharged via the USB port. A true springtime travel essential.
