What do epilators do? Guide to epilating for the first time

What is an epilator and how does it work?

An epilator is an electrical hair removal device that removes hair from the root. The head of the device contains multiple rotating discs or tweezer-like mechanisms that grip hairs and pull them out as you move it across your skin.

If you’re wondering ‘how does an epilator work?’, the process is simple:

1. Turn the epilator on and hold it against your skin at around a 75° angle.
2. Slowly glide the device over the treatment area.
3. As the discs rotate, they grip and remove multiple hairs directly from the root.

But what do epilators do exactly? Think of an epilator as an automated version of tweezing. Instead of removing one hair at a time, it removes many hairs in a single pass, making it a convenient option for longer-lasting hair removal. Because hairs are removed from the root, skin can stay smoother for longer compared to methods that only remove hair at the surface.

Do epilators hurt?

For first-time users, epilating can feel a little uncomfortable. Because epilators remove hair from the root, some people experience a brief stinging or tugging sensation, particularly when using the device for the first time.

This is often due to two factors:

1. If you haven’t epilated before, your hair may be thicker and denser, which can make it feel more noticeable when hairs are removed from the root.
2. Many people find that epilating becomes more comfortable over time as they get used to the sensation, and hair regrowth may become finer with regular use.¹

If your epilator is painful to begin with, try not to be discouraged. A mild level of discomfort is normal for many new users and often lessens with repeated use. However, if you experience significant pain, severe skin irritation, or any unexpected skin reaction, stop using your device and seek advice from a dermatologist.

How to make epilating less painful: Establishing a routine

Now that we’ve covered ‘what does an epilator do?’, let’s look at how to make epilating less painful and get the most out of your hair removal routine.

If you’re wondering how to reduce pain while using an epilator, a few simple preparation steps can make your experience more comfortable.

• Take a warm bath or shower before epilating. Warm water can help soften the hair, making it easier to pull up from the root.
• Exfoliate regularly using a body scrub or exfoliating glove to remove dead skin cells and help reduce the risk of ingrown hairs.²
• Keep your skin taut while you epilate to reduce pinching, giving your epilator a smooth surface to move across.
• Hold your device at approximately a 75° angle and move in slow, steady strokes for the best results.

Using a reliable device can also help improve comfort and effectiveness. The Philips Epilator Series 9000 features an innovative ProGuide designed to provide better visibility and help keep skin taut for more comfortable hair removal.

Its Double-Action Technology captures hairs as short as 0.5mm, while the ergonomic design helps the device glide smoothly across the skin. In fact, it can remove hair from both lower legs in less than 6 minutes.

Looking for an all-in-one beauty solution? The Beauty Set 9900 includes a range of attachments for face and body care, including:

• Double-Action Technology epilator
• SkinLED
• Facial hair remover
• Cleanser
• Exfoliator

When using your Philips epilator - be it the Philips Epilator Series 9000 or the Beauty Set 9900 - make sure you stay consistent with your routine. If you’re new to epilating, start with a regular routine that works for you and your hair growth cycle. With continued use, many people find that epilating becomes more comfortable over time, enjoying smooth skin for up to 4 weeks*.

How does an epilator work: FAQs

How long should my hair be before epilating?

For best results, hair should be long enough for the epilator to grip effectively. Many modern epilators, including the Philips Epilator Series 9000, can remove hairs as short as 0.5 mm.

If your hair is very long, trimming it first may help make epilating more comfortable and efficient.

Do epilators hurt more than waxing?

Not necessarily. Both epilators and waxing remove hair from the root, so both can cause some discomfort, especially the first few times. However, pain is subjective and varies from person to person.

Many people find that epilating becomes more comfortable over time as they get used to the sensation and maintain a regular hair removal routine. Wet and dry epilators, such as the Philips Epilator Series 9000 and the Beauty Set 9900, can also be used in the bath or shower, which some users find more comfortable.

Which epilator should I choose?

The right epilator depends on your individual needs and preferences. The Philips Epilator Series 9000 offers features designed to make hair removal easier and more comfortable. If you'd prefer an all-in-one beauty device, the Beauty Set 9900 includes additional attachments for facial cleansing, exfoliation, and facial hair removal alongside epilation.

Can I epilate my armpits?

Yes, epilators can be used on the underarms. Because the skin in this area is sensitive, it's important to hold the skin taut and move the device slowly.

If you're new to epilating, you may find the underarm area feels more sensitive than the legs. Many epilators include alternative attachments, such as a shaver or trimming comb, which can be useful if you prefer a different approach.

Epilating for the first time might feel a little daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Now that you know what epilators do, how they work, and do epilators hurt, you can approach your first session feeling more prepared. With the right technique and a little patience, epilating can become a simple part of your longer-lasting hair removal routine – helping you enjoy smoother skin with confidence.

* The following information applies to Epilator Series 8000 and 9000.

Sources

¹Effects of Repeated Exposures to Experimental Cold Pain Stimulus on Pain Perception in Healthy Young Indian Men, NIH

²Ingrown Hairs, NHS