<p>When it comes to <a href=” target=”_blank”>hair removal</a>, everyone has a favorite method. If you’re tired of shaving with <a href=” target=”_blank”>disposable razors</a> or waxing, an epilator may be your new go-to hair removal device. What exactly do epilators do? “They contain multiple rotating tweezer-like prongs that pluck hair out straight from the root,” explains Danusia Wnek, Senior Chemist at the <a href=” target=”_blank”>Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab</a>.</p><p>To find the <strong>best epilators</strong>, the GH Beauty, Health & Sustainability Lab conducted a consumer and laboratory test on a range of epilators from different brands and price points to test for safety, efficacy and ease of use. A total of 50 women (including new and experienced users) evaluated the tools on<strong> </strong>ease of use, performance and overall satisfaction. Additionally, noise testing was conducted by partner lab <a href=” target=”_blank”>Quiet Mark,</a> who determines a three-star rating logo based on the recorded sound test levels. </p><p>The recommendations below are a compilation of winners of the most recent and previous tests, Lab expert favorites, dermatologist-recommended picks and top-rated epilators online, vetted by our editors. In addition to the top epilator tools, keep reading to learn about safety, best practices and how to choose the best one for you. If epilating isn’t your thing, check out our tips on other hair removal methods, including laser and dermaplaning, as well as our roundups of the best <a href=” target=”_blank”>laser hair</a> and <a href=” target=”_blank”>IPL hair removal devices</a>.</p>”/>
Pros
- Great for beginners
- Has three speed setting options
- Effective on multiple body parts including legs, underarms and bikini line
Cons
- Cannot be used on the face
Panasonic’s Epilator & Shaver System earned the top ranking in the GH Beauty Lab’s most recent epilator test for good reason: It has the highest rating in overall satisfaction (100%), is great for beginners, and has the most speed settings and longest cord length of all the tools tested. Plus, the device received the highest scores for effectively removing hair from lower legs, underarms and bikini line and for not irritating skin after epilation.
It also showcases a triple-speed motor and has five snap-on attachments that conform to your body, plus a built-in LED light to help better detect each hair. “This was very easy to use and included clear instructions,” a tester noted. “It was a pain-free way to remove hair, and my skin felt very smooth for days!” The only downside: it can’t be used on the face, just from the underarms down.
Number of tweezers: 60 | Power: Cordless | Usability: Wet and dry | Settings: 3 speeds | Attachments included: 5 | Quiet Mark rating: 2 of 3 stars
2
Best Value
Remington Smooth & Silky Total Coverage Epilator
The two speed levels on Remington’s budget-friendly epilator allow you to customize your hair removal experience to be more gentle or powerful depending on your needs. A winner of the GH Beauty Lab’s test, this epilator’s angled head catches even the shortest hairs and has comfort barrels on the head of the epilator that, according to the brand, “helps reduce skin irritation during the hair removal process.”
Testers agreed regarding the efficacy of the hair removal: “I like that it was able to catch most hairs the first time around,” one shared. They also raved about the small, compact size. “It was a nice size and weight,” another said. “It fit in my hand comfortably.” While this epilator works wonders on different body parts, note that it can not be used on the face.
Number of tweezers: 40 | Power: Corded | Usability: Dry use only | Settings: 2 speeds | Attachments included: 1 | Quiet Mark rating: 1 of 3 stars
3
Best for Bikini Area
Braun Epilator Silk-épil 9 9-030
In addition to being a top ranked epilator in the GH Beauty Lab’s test, Braun’s Silk Expert Pro 5 Epilator is used and loved by GH Beauty Lab pros. In the evaluation, it received perfect scores for tweezing hair in one pass, pulling hair without breaking it, not hurting skin, being easy to clean and leaving skin hair-free for at least one week.
Former GH Beauty Lab Executive Director Birnur Aral, Ph.D., noted that this is her favorite pick for the bikini area: “The flexible rounded head of this epilator fits perfectly along the bikini line and around the curvatures down there.” She advises beginners to use it with the attachment that has the small oval window first, as this only exposes a fraction of the entire number of tweezers and the hair is not yanked all at once, making it less painful per pass. “Remember to pull the skin taut, and if hair is not long enough, make sure to press gently against the skin when the attachment is on for effective removal in one pass,” she adds.
While it’s pricey, this all-in-one epilator has proven worth the long-term investment. “This epilator makes quick work of nabbing every last hair — even super short or super fine ones — from legs, underarms, bikini and beyond,” GH Institute Deputy Editor Jessica Teich said. “The operation is smooth and snag-free and never pinches, and the light is super useful for uncovering hidden or fine hairs. I love that it comes with so many attachment options, but I primarily stick with the classic head for regular maintenance to keep skin smooth and hair-free. I use it daily!”
Number of tweezers: 40 | Power: Cordless | Usability: Wet and dry | Settings: 2 speeds | Attachments included: 6
4
Best Value Epilator for Bikini Area
Epilady Speed Corded Epilator
Now 33% Off
Pros
- Two speeds
- Great for beginners
Cons
- Some found it less effective at removing hairs
Epilady was the first company ever to market an epilator, thus making the brand the mother of all epilating devices. Newer models have been released since then, and while it hasn’t been tested in the Lab, reviewers love that that this one is especially great to use on the bikini area and pubic hair.
“It’s not as painful to shave down there,” one Amazon reviewer said. “Pulling your skin taut is key,” another reviewer advised, and a tip that’s echoed by Gretchen Frieling, M.D., a certified dermatopathologist at GFaceMD in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Most reviewers thought it did its job well, although some found it less effective at removing hair than other epilators.
Number of tweezers: 40 | Power: Corded | Usability: Dry | Settings: 2 speeds | Attachments included: 1
7
Best for Face and Body
Braun Epilator Silk-épil 9 9-985
Pros
- Includes a wide head to get more hair
- Seven attachments for multiple uses
Cons
- Can be painful
Compared to some fellow Braun epilators, the Silk-Epil 9 features a wider epilation head to remove more hair in one stroke, plus seven attachments so you can switch between face, body and sensitive areas. Once charged with the included cord or powered by batteries, you can use it on dry skin or in the shower.
“I followed the advice of others and used it every few days the first two weeks or so,” a reviewer commented. “Now when I feel a bit of stubble, I use it and am done in five minutes or less.” Aral personally loves and recommends a similar but older version of this model. Definitely an effective and speedy option, a few reviewers noted that while this epilator really works, it can be painful, especially at first.
Number of tweezers: 40 | Power: Cordless | Usability: Wet and dry | Settings: 2 speeds | Attachments included: 7
8
Best for Underarms
Braun Silk-Epil 3 3-270 Epilator
Pros
- Multiple head options
- Two speed settings
- Great price
Cons
- Can be painful at first
A more affordable Braun option, this leg and body epilator will get the job done with its 20 tweezer heads. While we haven’t Lab tested this pick, we love that its simple three-head system includes a shaver head, trimmer cap and massage roller head for easy comfort. It also features two speed settings so you can epilate at your own pace. “This product does what it’s meant to do,” an Amazon reviewer noted.
As with some other epilators, reviewers did note that it was painful, especially at first try, but got better with continued use. “I used it on my underarms and it did hurt the first time, but the hair did not regrow until two to three days after so I loved the fact that I had no five o’clock shadow,” another shared.
Number of tweezers: 20 | Power: Cordless | Usability: Wet and dry | Settings: 2 speeds | Attachments included: 3
9
Best for Sensitive Skin
Conair GIRLBOMB Rechargeable Epilator
Now 42% Off
For beginners and those with sensitive skin, epilation can feel uncomfortable and painful as tweezers pass over skin plucking multiple hairs at the root. While we haven’t tested this in the GH Beauty Lab, Lab experts like that Conair GirlBomb’s innovative adjustable ice roller attachment aims to minimize this pain and irritation. The ice roller can be used before or after skin is exposed to the epilator so it not only cools epilated skin, but it also distracts from any pain.
You can use the epilator with or without the attachment; just make sure to put it into the freezer at least four hours before use to maximize the effect. “This is my first ever epilator,” one Target reviewer shared. “There is a slight learning curve, but once you get the hang of it it’s easy and the rolling ice attachment is a nice touch for reducing pain and redness.”
Number of tweezers: 40 | Power: Cordless | Usability: Dry only | Settings: 2 speeds | Attachments included: 3 | Quick Mark rating: 2 of 3 stars
10
Best for Experienced Users
Braun Epilator Silk-épil 9 9-720
Pros
- Has a built-in light that testers love
- Quiet
- Very effective
Cons
- Instructions are not easy to follow
This quiet epilator from Braun was a hit in GH Beauty Lab testing among experienced epilator users and received the top satisfaction score from that group. One tester shared that “it is way better than what I have used in the past and the light is a game-changer,” while another commented “the epilator did not disappoint — the design, ease of use and most of all its effectiveness earn high marks from me.” Reviewers also note that the pain level was tolerable and they noticed minimal ingrown hairs after using. One thing to know for newbies: testers commented that the instructions were not the easiest to understand.
Number of tweezers: 40 | Power: Cordless | Usability: Wet and dry | Settings: 2 speeds | Attachments included: 3 | Quick Mark rating: 3 of 3 stars
11
Best for Minimal Ingrown Hairs
Philips Wet & Dry epilator
In addition to boasting the longest battery life among those tested in the GH Beauty Lab, this Philips epilator received high marks for users not noticing any ingrown hair after use, which is a side effect that may occur after epilation. It also worked extremely well on the upper legs and at being able to grab and pull hairs from the roots without breaking them, according to testers.
“I never used an epilator before so I absolutely loved how it pulled even short hairs right from the root,” one said. Others remarked that the areas they used it on stayed hair-free for a while: “I liked that it removed the hair and the hair didn’t seem to grow back for quite some time.” While this epilator reduces ingrown hairs and really gets to the roots, it did have one complaint among testers: the noise. Proceed with caution if a loud volume bothers you.
Number of tweezers: 32 | Power: Cordless | Usability: Wet and dry | Settings: 2 speeds | Attachments included: 6 | Quick Mark rating: 1 of 3 stars
12
Best for Upper Lip
Leuxe Facial Hair Remover for Women with LED Light
Pros
- Catches tiny hairs
- Won’t irritate skin
- Makeup goes on better after using
When it comes to the upper lip, you need something gentle enough to not irritate your skin but strong enough to catch the fine hairs. This Leuxe epilator effectively removes lip area hairs when rubbed in circular motions. GH Beauty Lab pros like that it’s waterproof, so you can run it under water to clean when you’re done. “I love that this didn’t irritate my skin or leave it red at all,” an Amazon reviewer said. Another reviewer noted her makeup sits and glides on better thanks to this tool. It is on the noisier side, although most reviewers weren’t bothered by that.
Number of tweezers: 2 (blades) | Power: Cordless | Usability: Wet and dry | Settings: 1 speed | Attachments included: 1
How we test epilators
To find the best epilators on the market, the Good Housekeeping Institute Beauty Lab selected products across different price points and ran consumer and laboratory testing on them. A total of 50 women (10 women per product) were recruited to test each product and were instructed to use the device following the manufacturer’s directions at least once and then observed hair regrowth for one week. The testers included regular, occasional and new epilator users.
After the testing period, users completed a detailed questionnaire rating attributes including ease of use, performance and overall satisfaction. In the Lab, experts measured the weight, cord length and the battery life after one charge (where applicable) for each product.
Noise testing was also conducted by partner lab Quiet Mark, who provides three-star ratings based on the recorded sound test levels. The results are based on a three star/point rating system, with one indicating poor (loud), two average and three good (quiet).
What to look for when shopping for the best epilators
According to Dr. Frieling and GH Beauty Lab experts, finding the best epilator comes down to a number of factors:
✔️ Wet and dry use: Most newer epilators can be used in the shower or on dry skin, but be sure to check water-resistance or waterproofness before buying.
✔️ Corded versus battery-powered: Battery-operated epilators tend to lose their power with use and time, while corded epilators pack more power.
✔️ Device size: Dr. Frieling suggests using smaller epilators for hard-to-reach areas, including facial hair — like eyebrows, upper lip and peach fuzz — while a larger device might be best for bigger areas like arms and legs.
✔️ Number of tweezers: Epilator devices can have anywhere from one single tweezer to over 70 tweezers. “Since epilation is already time-consuming, it’s better to go with a higher number of tweezers” for maximum efficacy, Dr. Frieling says. But know that “although more tweezers can make the process less time consuming, it can be more painful per pass since you are plucking more hair at once,” Wnek adds.
✔️ Speed settings: If you have coarse hair, look for epilators with a high speed setting function to quickly power through tougher hair.
✔️ Built-in light: GH Beauty Lab Director Sabina Wizemann recommends “epilators that have a light, which helps when trying to reach areas at the back of lower legs.” The illumination helps you see and nab every last hair.
Do epilators work and are they worth it?
Yes, epilators work and can be worth the investment to remove hair with lasting results. Epilating can keep your skin smoother for longer, and helps hair grow back more slowly and finer than before. “The niche for an epilator is that it can remove short regrowth and is less messy” than other types of hair removal, like depilatory or waxing, Aral explains.
It’s true that epilating can be even better than waxing: An epilator pulls hair out from the root, but is more convenient because “unlike waxing, you can epilate the moment you spot a hair, even hairs less than a millimeter long,” says Dr. Frieling. It also means you have more time in between hair removal sessions (usually about two to four weeks).
When it comes to cost, “expensive epilators aren’t necessarily better than more affordable options with respect to performance,” says Wnek. She notes that more expensive options tend to come with more bells and whistles (like multiple caps for different areas of the body and a light) and tend to be able to be used on wet or dry skin, while less expensive products are often only able to be used on dry skin.
What are the pros and cons of using an epilator?
There are many benefits to using an epilator, especially the fact that they deliver longer lasting smoothness. “Since hair is plucked at the root, you only need to use it every two to four weeks, which is less often than razors or depilatories,” says Wnek. “Plus, epilation is less messy than shaving, waxing or depilation and over the course of a year, epilators can be a more cost effective at-home option when compared to the shaving and depilatories.” You use multiple razor cartilages and depilatories over the course of a year, whereas there is no additional cost other than the initial purchase price for epilators.
The main con: pain. Among razors, waxes and depilatories, epilators can have the highest pain factor and can be painful for beginners, which is the biggest disadvantage, GH Beauty Lab experts note. The good news: any discomfort should decrease with repeated use.
Are epilators safe?
If you are following manufacturer instructions and warnings for your particular product, it is safe to use, GH Beauty Lab pros say. While directions differ from product to product, these are some that most may include:
- Only use the provided power supply to charge your epilator.
- Do not charge epilator close to the sink or tub.
- Do not share epilators with friends or family for hygenic reasons.
- Epilators should never be used near the hair on your head or eyelashes.
- The epilator should be cleaned as per manufacturer’s directions after each use. Unplug the device before cleaning.
Do epilators cause ingrown hairs?
Because you are plucking hair from the root, there is potential of getting ingrown hairs, the GH Beauty Lab says. Lab experts suggest using a body exfoliator like a scrub or brush between epilation sessions to prevent ingrown hair.
Dori Price is a New York City-based freelance writer and editor and beauty, style and wellness expert who was the Beauty & Fashion Director at Family Circle for 13 years before she joined Good Housekeeping, Prevention and Woman’s Day as a freelance beauty editor. She has also written for WomensHealthMag.com, Elle.com and HealthCentral.com.
Danusia (she/her) is a senior chemist in the Beauty, Health and Sustainability Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute where she evaluates haircare, skincare, cosmetics and beauty tools. She holds a B.S. in chemistry from St. John’s University and a M.S. in pharmaceutical sciences with concentration in cosmetic science from the University of Cincinnati. Danusia has over 10 years of experience in the personal care industry including formulation, product development, claim evaluation and efficacy testing.
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