Should You Use Epilators?
Published June 10, 2020
Epilators have been getting a lot of buzz lately. And while there are certain advantages to it, many people still have doubts about whether they should use one.
But before we discuss it’s pros and cons, let’s have a little backgrounder on epilators.
You probably have used tweezers to pluck your eyebrow or any other hairy parts of your body. Epilators work the same way. The small teeth-like metal contraptions open and close as you roll it over your skin. This open-and-close motion pinches the hair and pulls it out from the roots – just like a tweezer does.
It works faster and requires less effort than a tweezer though. So you can use it on large areas like the legs and even your back.
If you’re wondering whether you should use one or stick to good old waxing, we’re listing down the pros and cons of epilators to help you decide:
Benefits of Using Epilators
1. Semi-Permanent Results
Since it pulls out hair from the roots, they take longer to grow back. On average, you only need to use epilators about once or twice a month.
2. Works Best on Really Short Hairs
If you’re a fan of waxing, you’ll know that it only works with hairs that are a certain height. So you need to wait for your hair to grow a few millimeters before you can wax them again. This downtime doesn’t apply to epilators. In fact, they work best on really short hairs. So you can have smooth, hair-free skin every time.
3. Less Painful Than Waxing
Most of us would grimace at the thought of waxing. Mostly because the mere mention of the word takes us to one of the most painful moments of our life (literally). With epilators, you don’t have to worry about that especially if you’ve been using it for a long time.
4. Reduces Hair Growth Over Time
Yes, epilators don’t give permanent results. Your hair will still grow back but over time, you’ll notice that it thins out. The longer you use epilators, the finer the new hairs will be until they’re not any more noticeable.
5. Can Be Used All Over the Body
Since its relatively small and works on short hairs, you can use it in almost all parts of your body.
6. Environment-Friendly
Epilators don’t need creams, lotions, or any topical applications. It also requires very little energy to run on. This makes it a more environment-friendly option than most hair removal methods.
7. Leaves No Mess
Since it requires no lotion and creams, you won’t have to worry about leaving a mess. Or ruining your favorite towel with chemical drips. This gives you more freedom to do it anywhere as you won’t need water to rinse.
8. Can Save You Money in the Long Run
Yes, epilators can be expensive. But it’s a one-time investment that you can use for a couple of years at least.
Think about this: waxing usually costs around $30 per session. If you’ll do it once every two weeks, that’s $60 per month or $720 per year. The best epilators, on the other hand, costs no more than $200. You can even buy really good ones at $50. Compared with waxing, it no doubt saves you money in the long run.
9. Ideal for Dry and Sensitive Skin
If you have dry or sensitive skin, the epilator is your best friend. It works gently and doesn’t dry up your skin. You can even use it in sensitive areas of your body like the armpits and chin.
10. Works on All Types of Hair
Whether you have long, curly hair or fine, straight ones, there’s an epilator for you. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and types to suit all types of hair.
11. Doesn’t Affect Your Skin Color
Since it works just like tweezers, it won’t affect your skin color. Nor would your skin color affect its ability to pull out hair.
12. You Can Use It Anytime
Epilators can be used at any time of your convenience. You can use it at night before bed or in the morning before heading up to work. There’s no need to adjust your schedule to your waxing salon’s opening times or availability.
13. Offers More Privacy
Since you can use epilators in your room, you will have more privacy. You won’t have to lay almost naked before your waxer and bare out your body, warts and all. It’s definitely more comfortable.
14. Easy to Use
With epilators, there is no learning curve. You just have to switch it on then roll it out over any unwanted hair. It takes getting used to, yes, but most people usually get the hang of it the second time.
15. Portable and Convenient
Most epilators are small enough to fit in your handbag. So you can bring it anywhere, whether you’re traveling or attending a conference. It’s a convenient way of keeping your skin hair-free wherever you are.
Disadvantages of Epilators
1. Pain
Yes, we did say epilators are less painful than waxing. But we didn’t say it’s not painful. Most first time users will find it extremely painful, like hundreds of tweezers pulling your hair at the same time.
But there are ways to lessen the pain. For one, you need to make sure that you trimmed your hair before using the epilator. You can also wipe the area with warm water to soften it making the process a lot easier. Subsequent use will not be as painful as the first time and much more tolerable.
2. Redness
After epilating, your skin will usually be covered in red spots. The redness usually goes away in a couple of hours. But it’s still inconvenient, especially if you’re going out.
3. Increased Risk of Ingrown Hair
If not used properly, epilators can cause ingrown hairs. We all know how itchy and bothersome it can be to have small hairs growing under your skin.
4. Large Upfront Cost
One major reason why many people are doubting whether to buy an epilator or not is the upfront cost. As mentioned, epilators can cost well over $100. Not all people have that much money just lying around in their pockets. So even if an epilator will be much cheaper in the long run, they still stick with traditional waxing.
5. Long Charging Time and Short Battery Life
Some epilators come with non-rechargeable batteries. Others require charging every use. The battery can die out at any time, even in the middle of your epilating session and you’re left with a half-shaven leg. Definitely not a good sight to behold.
6. Loud Grinding Sounds
If you dislike loud noises, you might need to think twice before using epilators. The grinding sounds they make tend to be really loud, especially if you’re not used to it.
So, Should You Use Epilators?
Choosing a hair removal method is a personal decision. Just remember that no one method is perfect. There will always be disadvantages. Each person also has different needs and preferences.
If you’re willing to risk it, the benefits of using epilators far outweigh the disadvantages. But then again, at the end of the day, the choice is still up to you.
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About The Author
Judy Ponio has many years of experience writing about beauty and wellness topics. As a writer, she is passionate about helping her readers find accurate answers to their questions. Thus, she makes sure to only use information from credible and reliable sources. Her work has also appeared on various health and beauty sites.
