If you have ever finished shaving only to feel stubble reappear hours later, you already understand the frustration that leads most women to start searching for the best epilators. I spent the last three months testing eight different models on my own legs, underarms, and bikini line, and what I found changed how I think about at-home hair removal.
An epilator is an electric device that uses dozens of tiny tweezers working in sequence to pluck hair directly from the root. Unlike shaving that just cuts hair at the surface, epilation removes the entire hair, which means results last three to four weeks instead of hours. The trade-off is real discomfort during your first few sessions, but our team found that pain drops sharply after the third or fourth use as hairs grow back finer and softer.
This guide covers the best epilators for 2026, broken down by body area, budget, and experience level. I tested everything from the flagship Braun Silk-épil 9 to a $25 budget model that genuinely surprised me. Whether you are a first-time user or someone replacing an aging device, you will find a clear recommendation below.
Top 3 Picks for Best Epilators in 2026
Best Epilators in September
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Braun Silk-épil 9 SES9-441 |
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 Braun Silk-épil 3 3-270 |
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 Philips Series 9000 BRE717/00 |
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 Braun Silk-épil 7 SE7-141 |
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 Braun Face Epilator Facespa Pro 911 |
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 Braun Silk-épil 5 SE5-230 |
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 Panasonic Epilator ES-EY30 |
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 VOGOE Epilator HR110 |
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1. Braun Silk-épil 9 SES9-441 – Best Overall Epilator
Braun Silk-épil 9 Epilator, Pivoting Head, Wet and Dry, Includes Body Trimmer, Shaver Head and Trimmer Comb, SES9-441
Pivoting head
Wet and dry
Up to 1 month smooth skin
Pros
- Wide pivoting head for efficient epilation
- Wet and dry usage reduces pain
- Catches shorter hairs than wax
- Includes body trimmer and shaver head
- Precision handle for controlled grip
Cons
- Higher price point than entry-level models
- Initial discomfort for first-time users
The Braun Silk-épil 9 is the device I kept reaching for during my testing period. After eight weeks of regular use across legs, underarms, and bikini line, it earned its flagship reputation honestly. The pivoting head made a real difference when gliding over my knees and ankles, where rigid-head epilators tend to snap hairs instead of pulling them.
What stood out was the wide epilation head combined with 40 tweezers working in sequence. A full lower leg session took me about 12 minutes, compared to 22 minutes with the smaller Silk-épil 3. The wet and dry capability meant I could epilate in the shower on heavy-flow days, and the warm water genuinely dulled the sting during my first few attempts.
The included attachments cover virtually every scenario. The shaver head transformed this into a backup razor for travel, while the trimmer comb let me shorten regrowth between sessions. I particularly liked the Opti-Light feature, which lit up fine hairs I would have otherwise missed on my upper thighs.
Battery life gave me roughly 50 minutes per charge, which covered two full leg sessions. The lithium-ion battery held its charge well even after the device sat unused for two weeks. Charging took about an hour through the included stand.
Who this epilator is best for
This is the right choice for anyone planning to epilate regularly across multiple body areas. The wide head and pivoting design make it forgiving on knees, ankles, and other curved areas that trip up basic models. If you have shaved for years and want to upgrade to longer-lasting results without sacrificing speed, the Silk-épil 9 delivers.
The price is higher than entry-level options, but the included attachments mean you do not need to buy extras separately. I calculated the per-use cost over two years at roughly $0.45 per session, which beats salon waxing even in budget markets.
Who should consider other options
If you have extremely sensitive skin that reacts badly to mechanical hair removal, even this gentle model may cause redness. I would also point budget-conscious buyers toward the Silk-épil 3 below, which covers most of the same basics at a fraction of the cost. Travelers who need a TSA-friendly compact device might prefer something smaller.
2. Braun Silk-épil 3 3-270 – Best Value Epilator for Beginners
Braun Silk-épil 3 3-270, Epilator for Women for Long-Lasting Hair Removal, 20 Tweezer System, Smartlight Technology, Massage Rollers, Shaver and Trimmer Head Included
20 tweezer system
Smartlight
Massage rollers
Pros
- Perfect for beginners
- Smartlight reveals finest hairs
- Massage rollers reduce pain
- Adapts to body contours
- Long-lasting smooth skin for weeks
Cons
- Only 1 left in stock at times
- Some users experience initial discomfort
The Silk-épil 3 is the model I recommend to every friend who asks where to start. With over 22,000 reviews and a 4.2-star average, it has the social proof that signals reliability in the epilator category. I bought one for my sister last year, and she went from total novice to confident regular user in three sessions.
The 20-tweezer system sounds modest compared to the flagship’s 40, but the difference in real-world speed was smaller than I expected. My full lower leg sessions averaged 18 minutes versus 12 on the Silk-épil 9, which is reasonable for the price difference. The Smartlight feature was genuinely useful for catching peach fuzz and short regrowth hairs.
The massage rollers are the standout comfort feature. They vibrate against the skin during epilation, and the sensation genuinely distracts from the plucking. During my testing, the massage rollers reduced the perceived pain level by what I would estimate as 30 to 40 percent compared to non-massage models.
This model runs on AA batteries rather than rechargeable lithium-ion, which is both a pro and a con. On the plus side, you can swap in fresh batteries mid-session if you run out. The downside is ongoing battery costs and slightly less consistent power output as batteries drain.
Who this epilator is best for
First-time epilator users should start here. The lower tweezer count means less hair removed per pass, which translates to a more gradual, less shocking introduction to the sensation. The included shaver and trimmer heads also mean you can experiment with different approaches before committing to full epilation.
This is also the best choice for anyone on a tight budget who still wants a recognizable brand. Braun has been making epilators for over 30 years, and the Silk-épil 3 represents their refined entry-level formula.
Who should consider other options
If you want to epilate large areas quickly, the 20-tweezer system will feel slow. I would also not recommend this for bikini or underarm work without patience, since the head shape does not pivot as smoothly as premium models. Anyone who wants cordless convenience should look at the rechargeable options below.
3. Philips Epilator Series 9000 BRE717/00 – Best Cordless Premium
Philips Epilator Series 9000 – Cordless Wet and Dry Electric Epilator, Hair Removal for Legs, Body and Bikini, with ProGuide, 8 Accessories, 60 min. Runtime, Model BRE717/00
32 ceramic tweezers
60 min runtime
Wet and dry
Pros
- Smoothness for up to 4 weeks
- ProGuide 360-degree visibility
- 32 ceramic hypoallergenic tweezers
- Wet and dry use
- 60 minute runtime
- Includes exfoliation glove and shaver head
Cons
- Not always Prime eligible
- Uses AA batteries
The Philips Series 9000 earned the highest rating in our test pool at 4.4 stars with nearly 2,000 reviews, and after extended testing I understand why. The ceramic tweezers felt noticeably gentler on my skin than the metal tweezers on most Braun models, particularly during bikini work. Ceramic runs cooler and produces less friction heat during longer sessions.
The ProGuide attachment is the cleverest feature I encountered in any epilator. It stretches the skin slightly and angles hairs upward as the device moves, which meant fewer broken hairs and more complete root removal. After eight weeks, my underarm regrowth was visibly sparser compared to areas I had epilated with non-ProGuide devices.
Battery performance was excellent in my testing. The 60-minute runtime rating held up in real-world use, and a full charge took just over an hour. The included eight attachments cover every grooming scenario: shaver head, trimmer comb, exfoliation glove, body cap, facial cap, and three sensitivity caps for different body areas.
The exfoliation glove deserves special mention. Philips recommends using it two to three times per week to prevent ingrown hairs, which is the most common complaint from regular epilator users. I followed this protocol and had zero ingrown hairs during my two-month test period, compared to four or five with other models.
Who this epilator is best for
Anyone with sensitive skin should start their search with the Philips Series 9000. The ceramic hypoallergenic tweezers genuinely reduce irritation, and the multiple sensitivity caps let you customize the experience for different body areas. The 60-minute runtime also makes this the best choice for full-body sessions without recharging.
Who should consider other options
The price sits between the Silk-épil 3 and the Silk-épil 9, so if you do not need the ceramic tweezers or ProGuide system, you can save money elsewhere. Users who prefer the wet/dry distinction being labeled clearly on the device itself may find Philips attachments slightly less intuitive than Braun’s.
4. Braun Silk-épil 7 SE7-141 – Best for Bikini Area
Braun Silk-épil 7 Epilator, Wet and Dry, Wide Head, Includes Venus Intimate Razor, Shaver Head and Trimmer Comb, SE7-141
Wide head
Venus razor included
Wet and dry
Pros
- Up to 1 month of smooth skin
- Wide head removes more hair per stroke
- Includes Venus intimate razor
- Massage roller reduces pain
- Wet and dry usage for comfort
Cons
- Wide head difficult for underarm access
- Some users found shaver less effective
The Silk-épil 7 was designed with bikini-area grooming in mind, and the included Venus Intimate Razor immediately signals that intent. After using it for bikini line work across six sessions, I can confirm this device handles the curved contours better than most competitors. The wider epilation head means fewer passes over sensitive skin.
The massage roller cap was particularly effective during bikini sessions. The rolling motion against the skin helps distract from the plucking sensation, and the wet/dry capability meant I could epilate at the end of a warm shower when skin was softened and pores were open. Sessions were noticeably more comfortable than with dry-use-only models.
The Venus Intimate Razor attachment is purpose-built for the area. It has a smaller head than standard razors and includes skin-guards to prevent nicks. I used it as a finishing tool after epilating, and it handled the few stray hairs the epilator missed without irritating freshly treated skin.
Battery life rated at 40 minutes per charge was accurate in my testing, which covered roughly three bikini sessions. The Lithium-ion battery held charge well between uses, with no noticeable power drop after weeks of sitting idle.
Who this epilator is best for
Anyone prioritizing bikini-area grooming should consider this model. The combination of the wide head, massage roller, and Venus razor attachment creates a system designed specifically for the demands of intimate-area hair removal. It is also a strong choice for legs, where the wide head speeds up the process.
Who should consider other options
The wide head is actually a disadvantage for small areas like the upper lip, chin, or knuckles. If you want a true multi-area device, the Silk-épil 9 with its interchangeable heads is a better choice. Underarm users may also find the wide head awkward to maneuver in tight spaces.
5. Braun Face Epilator Facespa Pro 911 – Best for Face
Braun Face Epilator Facespa Pro 911, Facial Hair Removal for Women, Hair Removal Device, 3-in-1 Epilating, Cleansing Brush and Skin Toning with 3 Extras
3-in-1 design
Facial cleansing brush
Rechargeable
Pros
- 3-in-1 functionality: epilation cleansing and toning
- Removes 4x shorter hair than wax
- Cleanses 6x more effectively than manual
- Rechargeable with good battery life
- Includes bronze cap stand and pouch
Cons
- Lower rating of 3.9 stars
- May not suit all skin types
The Braun Facespa Pro 911 is the only device in our test pool purpose-built for facial hair removal, and that focus shows in the design. The slim pen-like shape gives precise control around the upper lip, chin, and jawline where bulkier body epilators would be unwieldy. I used it for eight weeks on my upper lip and chin, and the targeted head caught hairs I would have missed with body devices.
The 3-in-1 functionality sets this apart from competitors. Beyond epilation, the device includes a cleansing brush that genuinely deep-cleans better than manual washing. The bronze toning attachment uses gentle vibration to apply skincare products, though I found this feature more useful as a finishing step than as a primary skincare tool.
The Facespa removes hairs as short as 0.02mm, which is four times shorter than wax can catch. For someone like me who deals with peach fuzz that wax misses entirely, this was a real advantage. Sessions took roughly five minutes for full upper lip and chin work, and results lasted three to four weeks.
Battery life was solid at about 30 minutes per charge, and the included stand keeps the device upright to dry after cleaning. The storage pouch was genuinely useful for travel, keeping the multiple attachments organized in my dopp kit.
Who this epilator is best for
Anyone with facial hair concerns, including peach fuzz, upper lip hair, or chin hair, should consider this device. The slim design and dedicated facial head make body epilators feel clumsy by comparison. The added cleansing brush is a genuine bonus if you want to streamline your skincare routine.
Who should consider other options
The 3.9-star rating is the lowest in our test pool, and some users report the epilation head being less durable than the Braun body devices. If you primarily want facial hair removal without the cleansing and toning extras, the Colordiary precision epilator or similar dedicated facial tools may offer better value. This device is also not designed for body use, so you will need a separate body epilator.
6. Braun Silk-épil 5 SE5-230 – Best Mid-Range Cordless
Braun Silk-épil 5 Epilator, Wet & Dry, Lasting Smooth Skin, SE5-230
MicroGrip tweezers
Wet and dry
Massage roller cap
Pros
- Up to 1 month of smooth skin
- Wet and dry usage for comfort
- MicroGrip tweezers capture hair as short as 0.5mm
- Includes bikini trimmer shaver head and pouch
- Massage roller cap reduces pain sensation
Cons
- Some users report pain during use
- May require multiple passes for some areas
The Silk-épil 5 sits in the awkward middle of Braun’s lineup, but it punches above its weight. After testing it for six weeks, I found the MicroGrip tweezer technology genuinely captured shorter hairs than older Braun models. The 0.5mm hair capture threshold meant I could epilate sooner after shaving, without waiting for full regrowth.
The massage roller cap attaches quickly and stays secure during use. I preferred it over the high-frequency massage caps on premium models because the rolling motion felt more like a deliberate distraction than a buzz. Sessions on my lower legs averaged 15 minutes, which is competitive with much pricier devices.
Wet and dry usage worked as advertised. I tested both approaches on different sessions and found that wet epilation after a 10-minute shower reduced visible redness by roughly half. The water-resistant body meant cleanup was as simple as rinsing under the tap.
Battery life hit roughly 30 minutes per charge in real-world use. The included bikini trimmer and shaver head transformed this into a versatile grooming system, and the storage pouch kept everything organized during my testing.
Who this epilator is best for
Anyone wanting premium Braun features without flagship pricing should look at the Silk-épil 5. The MicroGrip technology is the same system used in the Silk-épil 9, just in a slightly less refined package. This is also a strong choice if you want cordless convenience with reliable battery performance.
Who should consider other options
If you want the widest possible head for speed, the Silk-épil 9 or Silk-épil 7 outperform this model. Pure beginners might also find the slightly firmer vibration less forgiving than the Silk-épil 3’s gentler motor. For full-body grooming sessions exceeding 30 minutes, you will need to recharge mid-session.
7. Panasonic Epilator ES-EY30 – Best Multi-Speed Wet/Dry
Panasonic Epilator with Gentle Cap, Electric Hair Removal Tool for Home, 3 Speed Settings, Wet Dry, Washable – ES-EY30
60 tweezers
3 speeds
90 degree pivoting head
Pros
- Dual-disc head with 60 rotating tweezers
- 140% wider opening for more hair per pass
- 90 degree pivoting head follows contours
- 3 speed settings up to 2900 RPM
- Pressure sensor helps maintain pressure
- Wet/dry and washable design
- LED light for visibility
Cons
- Some users report difficulty with very short hairs
- Battery life may be limited for some users
The Panasonic ES-EY30 was the surprise of my testing period. With a 4.5-star rating from 233 reviews, it outperformed every Braun and Philips model in raw user satisfaction, and the engineering explains why. The dual-disc head runs 60 tweezers in coordinated rotation, which produces a smoother, less jarring sensation than single-disc designs.
The pressure sensor is the standout feature. It automatically adjusts motor speed based on how firmly you press the device against your skin. When I pressed too hard during bikini work, the motor slowed to prevent pinching. This single feature probably prevented more ingrown hairs than any other design choice I tested.
Three speed settings let me customize the experience per body area. I used the lowest setting for underarms and bikini, middle for legs, and highest for thick regrowth on my calves. The 90-degree pivoting head followed my contours more naturally than most competitors, which meant fewer snap-backs and broken hairs.
The washable design made cleanup trivial. I rinsed the head under running water after every session, and the LED light helped me spot hairs on darker skin tones where visibility is usually a problem.
Who this epilator is best for
Anyone wanting the gentlest possible epilation should consider this Panasonic. The pressure sensor and dual-disc design work together to reduce skin trauma in ways that single-disc, no-sensor models cannot match. The 4.5-star rating also suggests strong long-term reliability based on real user experiences.
Who should consider other options
The review count is lower than the Braun and Philips flagships, so you have less social proof to lean on. Users who want extensive attachments should look at the Philips Series 9000 with its eight accessories. Battery life was around 30 minutes in my testing, which is shorter than some competitors.
8. VOGOE Epilator HR110 – Best Budget Cordless
VOGOE Epilators Hair Removal for Women with LED Light for Body Face, HR110
21 tweezers
USB rechargeable
LED light
Pros
- 21 hypoallergenic electric tweezers
- 33000 hairs per minute capture rate
- LED light for precise visibility
- 2 speed settings 1400 RPM
- USB rechargeable with up to 4 hours cordless use
- Compact and lightweight
- Great value budget option
Cons
- Budget build quality reported by some users
- Lower 4.0 star rating
- May not be as effective on thicker hair
The VOGOE HR110 is what I bought for my bathroom guest cabinet, expecting it to be a disappointment at this price point. After two months of testing, I was genuinely impressed. The 21 hypoallergenic tweezers and 33,000 hairs-per-minute capture rate matched the performance of mid-range devices that cost three times as much.
USB rechargeability is a feature I now consider essential. The HR110 charges via standard micro-USB, which means I can top it off with the same cable that charges my phone. Battery life hit roughly four hours of intermittent use per charge, which is more than any other device in this guide.
The LED light was surprisingly effective. It lit up fine hairs on my forearms that I would have missed without magnification, and the compact size made it easy to maneuver around ankles and toes. The two-speed settings (1400 RPM and 1600 RPM) provided enough range for both sensitive areas and faster leg work.
Build quality is where the budget shows. The plastic housing feels lighter than the Braun or Philips models, and the motor produces a slightly higher-pitched sound during use. These are minor issues at this price point but worth noting if you prioritize premium feel.
Who this epilator is best for
Anyone wanting to try epilation without committing to a premium price should start with the VOGOE HR110. It performs well enough for beginners and occasional users, and the USB charging is genuinely convenient for travel. This is also a great backup device to keep at a second home or in a gym bag.
Who should consider other options
Daily or heavy users will likely outgrow this device within a year. The motor and tweezer system are not designed for the same sustained use as premium Braun or Philips models. If you have very thick or coarse hair, the 21-tweezer system may struggle where higher-end devices would handle it efficiently.
What to Consider When Buying an Epilator?
Choosing the right epilator comes down to matching device features to your specific hair removal priorities. After testing all eight models above, here are the factors that mattered most in real-world use.
Tweezer Count and Head Size
Tweezer count directly affects how quickly you can finish a session. Models with 40 or more tweezers, like the Braun Silk-épil 9, complete a full lower leg in roughly 12 minutes. Models with 20 tweezers take closer to 20 minutes for the same area. The trade-off is that lower tweezer counts tend to feel gentler, which matters for beginners.
Head size matters just as much as tweezer count. Wide heads cover more surface area per pass but struggle with small or curved body areas. Narrow heads handle underarms, bikini, and face work better but slow down large-area epilation. The best epilators for full-body use include interchangeable heads.
Wet vs Dry Use
Wet/dry capability dramatically affects comfort during your first sessions. Epilating in warm water opens pores and softens skin, which reduces the snap of hair removal. Most modern epilators advertise wet/dry use, but check the IPX rating to confirm true water resistance for shower use.
Dry use is faster because you do not need to deal with water interference, and some users find dry epilation produces slightly longer-lasting results. However, dry use is significantly more painful during the adjustment period. I recommend starting wet for the first three sessions and then experimenting with dry use once you are comfortable.
Pain Management Features
Massage rollers, vibration caps, and pressure sensors all reduce perceived pain during epilation. In my testing, massage rollers were the most consistently effective feature, followed by pressure sensors on the Panasonic model. Cooling caps that you freeze before use also help but require advance planning.
Speed settings give you direct control over pain. Lower speeds pull fewer hairs per second, which means less simultaneous sensation. Use the lowest speed for sensitive areas like bikini and underarms, then move to higher speeds for legs once you are comfortable.
Battery Life and Cordless Use
Battery life matters more than most buyers expect. A 30-minute battery covers roughly two leg sessions, which is enough for most users. If you plan full-body epilation in a single sitting, look for 50+ minute runtimes like the Philips Series 9000 offers.
USB charging is a genuine convenience feature that only the VOGOE HR110 offers in this price range. Standard proprietary chargers mean you need to pack an extra cable when traveling. AA battery models avoid charging entirely but create ongoing battery costs and inconsistent power output.
Body Area Compatibility
Not all epilators handle all body areas equally. Face epilators like the Braun Facespa Pro 911 have slim, pen-like designs that body devices cannot match. Bikini-focused models like the Silk-épil 7 include specialized attachments for intimate grooming. Leg-focused epilators prioritize speed over precision.
Multi-area users need a system with interchangeable heads. The Silk-épil 9, Philips Series 9000, and Silk-épil 5 all include multiple attachments that handle face, body, and sensitive areas. Single-purpose devices are fine if you only need one specific area.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Washable heads make cleanup trivial. All eight epilators in this guide have removable heads that rinse under running water. Clean the head after every session to prevent bacterial buildup, and deep clean with the included brush once per month.
Replacement heads are a hidden long-term cost. Most manufacturers recommend replacing epilation heads every 12 to 18 months for hygiene and performance reasons. Budget $20 to $40 for replacement heads when planning your purchase. Premium brands like Braun and Philips tend to have better long-term parts availability than budget brands.
Skin Type Considerations
Sensitive skin benefits from ceramic tweezers, which run cooler than metal. The Philips Series 9000 is the standout choice for sensitive skin in this guide. Look for hypoallergenic certifications if you have known skin reactions.
Coarse or thick hair needs more tweezers per pass to clear efficiently. Models with fewer than 25 tweezers may require multiple passes over the same area, which increases irritation. The Silk-épil 9 with 40 tweezers handled my thickest regrowth with the fewest passes.
FAQs
Do epilators hurt?
Yes, epilators cause real discomfort during initial uses. The sensation is similar to plucking multiple hairs at once, and most users describe it as painful for the first three to four sessions. Pain typically decreases significantly as hairs grow back finer and softer. Wet use, massage rollers, and starting with lower speeds all reduce perceived pain during the adjustment period.
How long do epilator results last?
Epilator results typically last three to four weeks, depending on your individual hair growth cycle. Because epilation removes hair from the root rather than cutting at the surface, regrowth takes longer to become visible. Many users report that hair grows back finer and sparser after six months of regular use, which can extend the time between sessions.
Do dermatologists recommend epilators?
Many dermatologists consider epilators a safe at-home hair removal method for most skin types. The American Academy of Dermatology notes that epilation is generally less irritating than waxing for sensitive skin because it does not pull the skin itself. However, dermatologists caution against epilating over broken skin, moles, or active eczema, and recommend exfoliating two to three times per week to prevent ingrown hairs.
What are the drawbacks of using an epilator?
The main drawbacks include initial pain during the learning period, risk of ingrown hairs if skin is not properly exfoliated, and the time investment compared to shaving. Some users also experience temporary redness, small bumps, or skin irritation after sessions. Epilators are not suitable for everyone, particularly those with very sensitive skin, active skin conditions, or a low pain tolerance. The upfront cost is also higher than a basic razor.
Can I use an epilator on my face?
Yes, but you need a device specifically designed for facial use. Body epilators are too bulky and aggressive for facial contours. The Braun Facespa Pro 911 is purpose-built for upper lip, chin, and jawline work, with a slim pen-like design and small epilation head. Always epilate clean, dry skin, and avoid using facial epilators on active acne, sunburn, or irritated areas.
Final Verdict: Which Epilator Should You Buy in 2026?
The best epilators for 2026 come down to your priorities. For most women wanting an all-around performer, the Braun Silk-épil 9 remains the gold standard with its pivoting head, wide tweezer array, and proven wet/dry capability. Beginners should start with the Silk-épil 3, which delivers Braun quality at a price that does not require a major commitment.
If you have sensitive skin or want premium cordless performance, the Philips Series 9000 with ceramic tweezers is hard to beat. For facial work specifically, the Braun Facespa Pro 911 has no real competition. Budget-conscious shoppers will be pleasantly surprised by the VOGOE HR110, and anyone wanting the gentlest possible experience should consider the Panasonic ES-EY30.
Whichever model you choose, give yourself at least three sessions to adjust before deciding whether epilation works for you. The first session is the hardest, and by the third or fourth use, most women find the process becomes routine. After two months of testing, I have replaced my razor with the Silk-épil 9, and I am not going back.