If you've been going to the parlour every few weeks for years, you've probably done the maths at some point and winced. An epilator promises parlour-like results at home. But does it live up to that? Let's compare honestly.
How each method works
- Epilator: a handheld device with tiny rotating tweezers that pull hairs from the root.
- Waxing: warm or cold wax grips hair and pulls it out in one strip.
- Threading: a twisted cotton thread rolls over skin, plucking hair in rows.
All three remove hair from the root, so results last for weeks. Epilators have been around since the 1980s, but they've become much smaller and more comfortable since.
Head-to-head
| Epilator | Waxing | Threading | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pain | Stings at first, eases with use | Sharp, quick | Sharp, area by area |
| Hair length needed | Short (a few mm) | Longer | Any |
| Best areas | Arms, legs, underarms | Large areas | Brows, face |
| Ongoing cost | One-time purchase | Every visit | Every visit |
| Privacy & convenience | At home, anytime | Parlour or messy at home | Parlour |
Healthline has a good deeper comparison of epilating and waxing if you want more detail.
How to make epilating hurt less
- Exfoliate the day before to free trapped hairs.
- Epilate after a warm shower when pores are open — then dry skin fully.
- Hold skin taut and move slowly against the direction of hair growth.
- Start with your legs, which are less sensitive, before trying underarms.
- Be consistent. The second and third time hurt noticeably less as hair grows back finer.
- Evening is best so any redness settles overnight.
Why a 2-in-1 epilator and shaver is handy
Some days you want smooth skin in two minutes; other days you have time to epilate for longer-lasting results. Our 2-in-1 electric epilator and shaver for women does both, so you can shave sensitive areas and epilate legs and arms.
Avoid ingrown hairs
- Exfoliate gently two or three times a week.
- Moisturise daily with a light lotion.
- Don't epilate over moles, cuts, rashes or varicose veins.
The verdict
Choose threading for brows. Choose waxing if you prefer a professional and don't mind the ongoing cost. Choose an epilator if you want long-lasting results at home and are willing to push through the first couple of sessions.
For face and brows, see our guides on facial hair removal for women and shaping eyebrows at home.