Removing unwanted hair in various parts of our body using epilators is one of the most effective ways to do that. While shaving may be quicker and less painful, epilators bring about more satisfying and longer-lasting results. They remove hair from the roots, so you get smooth skin for weeks instead of just days.
Many people shy away from epilating, but with the right kind of epilator, you need not be afraid. In this article, we'll discuss the points to consider when choosing epilators for your face, underarms, or legs. We've also prepared a list of the best models in the market right now. Read on and find your way to flawless, hair-free skin!
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The products and services listed are ranked independently by the editorial team based on the points mentioned in our thoroughly researched buying guide (as of 01-16-2023).
Table of Contents
An epilator is a small, handheld device that removes hair by the roots. It offers a quick and easy do-it-yourself hair removal option for people who want lasting results. Unlike shaving, this method plucks hair away from the skin, resulting in a smoother result for as long as 4 weeks, since hair regrowth takes longer with epilating compared to shaving.
It's also a more eco-friendly option because you won't have to deal with disposable shavers or razors that will end up in the landfill. All you need is one device, and a high-quality one can last you for more than ten years!
Here are some key points to consider:
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Epilators come in various types, and some may be more effective in removing hair in certain areas than others. Read on to know more about what to expect from each kind.
Spring epilators are the most basic kind of epilator you'll find. It is a simple spring coil that you use manually by curving it downwards against the surface of the skin and twisting the tool from both ends. The twisting motion catches hair and plucks the strands out of the skin. There are also some newer electric versions that are just as easy to use. This type is widely used for removing delicate facial hair.
This type works exactly as its name indicates. Instead of a spring, it is made up of metal discs or plates that rotate in the epilator head. As they rotate, they grab the strands of hair and pull them out. This mechanism makes for a faster epilation process because it enables the epilator to remove multiple hairs at once.
Tweezer type-epilators are simply an upgraded version of the rotating disc epilator. While both of them are electronically operated, the difference is that the metal plates on this one act as tweezers that pull out the hair as they rotate. Generally speaking, the more tweezers an epilator has, the more effective it will be.
Many modern epilators are equipped with a wet/dry feature, which means that you can operate them in wet environments, like in the shower, for instance. With this feature, epilation can be less painful since your skin and nerves are more relaxed and open to the hair removal process.
Washable epilators are also more hygienic, as you can wash them clean without worrying about the water destroying the motor. They are also typically cordless and thus offer the added advantage of portability. Corded types of epilators may limit you to dry epilating, as they require a continuous power supply and can’t be used during a shower.
Most epilators come in one to two speed settings. A slow speed setting is gentler and best used in sensitive areas. For larger areas like legs and arms, you can go with the fast speed setting to finish the job more quickly.
As mentioned earlier, an epilator is more effective if it has more tweezers. However, do take note that more tweezers can mean more pain. For starters, we recommend going for an epilator with a tweezer count of around 20. This will do an effective and quick job at removing the hair, especially in larger areas.
Epilators come in different sizes and shapes. To make the process more efficient, make sure you get a size and shape that would be suitable for the areas you want to cover. If you are dealing with your facial hair, for example, look for a small pen-like epilator with tiny tweezers to capture the minute hairs on the upper lip and brow areas.
For areas with curves such as legs, bikini area, and underarms, it's best to go with epilators that are small, flat, and oval-shaped so that you can easily glide the device along the curves. Meanwhile, if you want to cover a wider area, look for a larger epilator with more tweezers to cut down on time.
If you feel like you want to do more with your device, then check out added features that can help you get the hair removal process done more quickly, with a few more perks. Here are some of the most common additions you can find in popular brands.
Epilators with an ergonomic handle and an anti-slip grip allow for safe and efficient epilating. It is safer when removing hair in hard-to-reach areas like the bikini line. These types are longer and bigger in size to accommodate other accessories like a shaver or trimmer.
Ever had a time where you think you've removed every hair, but it turns out that you still missed some? To solve this problem, opt for an epilator with an LED light feature. This allows you to meticulously find tiny and overlooked unwanted hairs. Now your skin will be truly smooth and spotless!
If you want to get more out of your epilator, opt for brands that come with attachments to turn the device into more than just an epilator. Some brands offer shaving and trimming caps, a massage pad, a ceramic file for exfoliation, and a special face epilator for gentle hair removal on the upper lip and eyebrows. Caps like this truly give you more value for your money!
From ₱8,989
Braun epilators are no doubt among the best you can find in the market. This model, the Braun Silk-Silk-épil 9-890, is equipped with SensoSmart Technology that raises it a cut above the rest. This innovation helps prevent the user from pushing too hard and causing damage to the skin and hair strands. It also has two speeds to address both fine and coarse hair.
Another feature that appeals to a wide range of users is the wide epilator head that pivots for smooth operation along contoured areas. It also boasts a Smart Light that illuminates the working surface so that you can see even the tiniest and finest hairs. Add to that a whopping 40-tweezer count, and you get a device that works harder than any other you'll find.
You also get a bikini styler - a trimmer that lets you maintain a hairless bikini line effortlessly. Lastly, it is cordless and waterproof - perfect for wet and dry epilation. All of these features make for one powerful epilator that's worth the price tag!
From ₱4,229
This epilator from W Elite can be your ultimate hygiene tool! This 5-in-1 tool has interchangeable heads that allow you to shave and trim hair, massage your body, remove unsightly calluses, and exfoliate your face. It is built with a compact grip and streamlined design that makes it easy to operate.
Another great feature is that it is waterproof and cordless - you can take it with you into the shower and do your epilation there for a less painful experience. It also comes with a precision cap for safe epilation in delicate areas like the bikini line.
From ₱2,990
This epilator promises a satin feel afterward since it can remove hair from roots as short as 0.5 mm. It also feels less painful than other models, thanks to the gentle tweezing action that removes hair without pulling on the skin so much. This is the strength of the Philips SatinSoft; it even has a sensitive area cap specially designed for delicate and sensitive skin.
Aside from being cordless and giving you the option to epilate in the shower, you can also choose between two speed settings for the removal of thin or thick hair. The kit also includes an exfoliating brush that's perfect for sloughing off dead skin cells after epilation. Now that's what we call the full treatment!
From ₱2,999
The Panasonic Soie has a loyal following, and for good reason. This kit can take the place of a foot spa or a personal care salon because of its easy-to-use design that can handle contoured surfaces, as well as its handy attachments like a facial cleansing brush, a shaver, and a heel callus remover.
The epilator head is powerful yet gentle, and users claim that it's one of the most painless epilators they've tried. To help you detect tiny hairs that might otherwise get overlooked, this device also has a built-in LED light. And since it's cordless, it can be used for wet epilation as well. This is definitely one handy little device that can pamper you from head to toe!
From ₱1,199
Here's a reliable hair removal device by Kemei that promises to deliver smooth skin after each epilation. With its two speed settings to remove both fine and coarse hair, it can pick up hair as short as 0.5mm effectively. You can step out confidently in your sleeveless shirts and cute shorts in no time at all!
This epilator is cordless and water-resistant, so you can use it for wet and dry hair removal. The head itself is ultra-wide at 35 mm and can cover wide surfaces efficiently. It also comes with useful attachments like a callus remover, a shaver, and a facial cleansing brush.
From ₱1,839
If you want a simple Braun epilator, this is the one to go for. While this may look quite basic, it's definitely not. With a 20-tweezer system and SoftLift tips, it can gently yet effectively remove even flat-lying hair at the root, and you can enjoy hairless skin for as long as 4 weeks!
This is a corded epilator, so it's designed only for dry epilation. Nevertheless, you can keep it clean and running smoothly with the accompanying brush. And because it has a more affordable price than other Braun models, you can still enjoy superior quality without breaking the bank!
From ₱2,399
For those who want a gentle, fuss-free epilator, this is for you. The Satinelle Epilator from Philips is a simple, compact, and powerful epilator that can remove even 0.5-mm hairs. It has two speed options that work well in removing both fine and thick hair, but is so gentle it won't pull your skin.
The rounded, ergonomically-designed shape allows easy and secure hair removal as you move the device to cover all areas of unwanted hair. And even though it's corded, it has a washable epilation head that can be detached and cleaned under running water to keep your device hygienic.
From ₱829
Here's an affordable but effective epilator for beginners and people on a budget. The small and compact size is really handy for traveling, and the ergonomic and cordless design makes it easy to operate, even for first-time users.
Some reviewers have expressed how happy they are with its performance given the low price. Its 2-speed settings allow you to start with medium speed if you are just getting acquainted with this device, then level up if you want. It also has a callus remover head attachment to remove rough spots on your feet.
From ₱550
This Ckeyin epilator is another device that performs well without breaking the bank. The rounded shape makes it suitable for operation on various surfaces, even those tricky ones like the underarm and pubic areas. And because it's cordless, you can do wet epilation and ensure a hygienic hair removal session every time. It also comes with a built-in LED light for finding hard-to-see hair.
Beginners to epilating will love this option because it has two speed settings - low and high - so that they can control the intensity. But the biggest plus is its price. If you're just trying out epilation for the first time and you're not ready to splurge on a high-end brand yet, then this budget-friendly option should definitely be on your list!
From ₱58
While an electronic device is certainly more useful for removing hair in various areas of the body, nothing beats a basic spring epilator for facial hair. This manual tool is specially designed to gently pull out peach fuzz and thin facial hair and is an absolutely natural way of hair removal.
This affordable option is made of thick ABS resin and a stainless steel spring. To operate, you simply lay the coil flat against your skin and squeeze the handles to get the coils moving and teasing out the hair in the process. It may look really simple, but rest assured it can pull out multiple strands at once!
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by the mybest team.
Yes, epilating is safe during pregnancy. However, keep in mind that pain tolerance levels are higher than usual during pregnancy, so it might feel more painful. It might also be uncomfortable to bend towards your legs to remove hair as the belly becomes bigger. Other than that, epilators do not cause harm to both mother and baby.
Epilation is not a permanent hair removal procedure. Hair typically grows back in about 2 to 4 weeks. But years of epilating may eventually result in semi-permanent removal as some of the hair strands could stop growing. Hair strands might also grow back a little thinner.
Follow the steps below to do some deep cleaning on your epilator:
If you're looking for some great products to add to your body care routine, check out our related articles below. We've got recommended products, buying guides, and tips to help you achieve the best self-care you can give yourself!
Author: D. Payo
Re-editor: R. Umlas
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
When you purchase products mentioned in the article, part of the sales may be returned to mybest.
The descriptions of each product is referenced from the content available from the manufacturer, e-commerce sites etc.
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