Epilator FAQ

Epilators are a fantastic hair removal tool but one needs to know how to use it well. Here are some frequently asked questions about epilators and the process of epilating. More questions and answers will be added over time so feel free to bookmark this page or send a friend over! You may also want to read my best epilator tips for more information on using epilators.

1. Do hairs grow back thicker or faster after using an epilator?

No they do not. Studies have shown that ‘root removal’ methods such as epilation reduce the amount of re-growth and produces thinner hair that grows back more slowly. Hair typically takes about 4 weeks to re-grow back to its original length, but hair on different places grows back at different rates. You may want to learn more about how epilators work.

2. How do I get rid of a rash from an epilator?

Firstly, stop any hair removal until after it heals. If the rash is mild, you can some aloe vera which has anti-inflammatory. Another natural antiseptic method is a drop or two of pure tea tree oil in water. You could also try antiseptic creams. If the rash does not clear after a couple of days, see a doctor.

3. Can you use an epilator during pregnancy?

Generally manual or mechanical methods of body hair removal are all right. However be cautious of what chemical products you might use as part of epilation. Read the package instructions carefully or better still, consult your physician before applying these chemicals. Additionally, keep in mind that maternal stress affects the unborn child negatively. If epilation is particularly uncomfortable you may want to consider discontinuing or using a less stressful method until post-pregnancy.

4. How long do hairs grow back after using an epilator?

With regular epilation, re-growing hairs become finer, thinner and softer. Eventually they may stop growing all together. This is because repeated removal of hair from the roots will alter the follicles enough where they stop producing new hair.

5. How do you avoid getting ingrown hairs while using an epilator?

Ingrown hairs from epilation occur when the cut hairs curls back into the skin or they get trapped inside the follicle causing inflammation. When epilating, always move in the opposite direction of the hair growth for better tweezing. A warm bath or shower before epilation opens the pores and softens the hair for better epilation.

Exfoliating regularly between epilation also minimizes ingrown hairs by removing dead skin layers and smoothening re-growing hairs. Regular epilation also reduces the occurrence of ingrown hairs as the re-growing hair tends to be smoother and finer.

6. Is using an epilator more painful than waxing?

General consensus is that waxing and epilating are about the same in terms of discomfort and that both methods become more bearable with time. Some users, however, cannot accommodate epilation in the bikini and underarm areas and will opt for other techniques. Epilation is also not popular for the eyebrows. Check out this guide to reducing epilator pain for help on making epilators less painful.

7. How do I clean my epilator?

Begin by sweeping out excess hairs with a brush. Also brush off the epilator attachments. Gas dusters are also available for purchase and they are used to blow off leftover hairs after brushing. Wet use epilators can be rinsed under a running tap.

Next, clean off the tweezers and attachments with rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball. Let the epilator dry off before replacing the cap.

8. How should I moisturize after using an epilator?

A soothing or calming lotion is probably the best moisturizer because epilation leaves the skin sore. Witch hazel has soothing properties. Alternatively you can purchase a post-epilation lotion. Avoid your regular cream or moisturizer until the skin settles down again.

9. Where can I buy epilators?

Epilators can be found in some drugstores and big department stores like Target, Sephora, Bed Bath and Beyond or any other specialty store. You can also buy epilators online through Amazon.com, which usually offers great discounted prices compared to the usual retail stores.