Many people struggle with the problem of unwanted hair. We spend millions of dollars each year on hair removal products, some of which can be expensive, painful or ineffective. Two of the best hair removal methods are using epilators and waxing, but which one is better?
In this article, we will take a look at the pros and cons of using an epilator vs waxing to determine the best hair removal method for you.
What is waxing?
Waxing is a method in which hot wax is applied to the skin where unwanted hair grows. A strip of cloth or paper is applied over the wax and pulled away, taking the hair with it.
Advantages of waxing
Results can last for up to six weeks
Waxing is a long-lasting method of hair removal because it removes the hairs at the root. The rate of hair regrowth varies, but generally the skin will remain hairless for two to six weeks after waxing.
You can remove large areas of hair quickly
Waxing is a versatile method of hair removal and can be used most areas of the body including legs, underarms, bikini area and face. An experienced waxer can remove all of the hair in an area with only one or two applications of wax.
Disadvantages of waxing
It can be painful
One of the biggest complaints people have about waxing is the pain. But how painful is it? The truth is that everyone experiences pain differently. People with thick or coarse hair will most likely experience more pain than those with thin or fine hair. However, the good news is if you wax regularly, your body will slowly get used to the pain and you’ll find that it won’t hurt so much.
May cause skin irritation
Waxing can cause skin irritation and is generally not recommended for people with sensitive skin. This is because when you apply hot wax, it not only removes the hair; it also removes a thin layer of skin cells with it. After waxing, you may experience some pain and redness, which should subside within a few hours. Your skin may also be more susceptible to infection, so it’s best to avoid swimming in chlorinated pools or at the beach for at least 24 hours.
It can be expensive
Waxing is usually done by an aesthetician in a salon, which is costly and can require monthly trips to the salon. While at-home waxing kits are available, they can become more of a hassle if you don’t know what you’re doing. Inexperienced users often complain about home wax kits being messy, difficult to use and giving uneven results. With hot wax, there is also the risk that you might end up burning or damaging your skin. So unless you are an experienced waxer, it might be best to leave it to the professionals.
Hair needs to be a certain length
Waxing requires the hair to reach a certain length in order to be grabbed by the hot wax. Having to wait for the hair to grow out can be annoying, especially in the warmer months when you want to be flaunting your skin, not hiding it.
Can cause ingrown hairs
Like most hair removal methods, waxing can cause ingrown hairs especially if your hair is thick or curly. Luckily, there are many ways to prevent ingrown hairs from occurring.
The most popular methods include keeping the skin moisturized and exfoliating regularly.
Tip: When it comes to exfoliating, it’s best to wait at least 24 hours after your wax treatment to avoid further irritation.
What is an epilator?
An epilator is an electric device that removes hair by grasping several hairs and pulling them out at once. Like waxing, epilating removes the hair by the root so that the hair doesn’t grow back for two or more weeks.
Advantages of epilating
No on-going costs
Compared to waxing, epilating has many benefits. Epilators are affordable and are a one-time expense. While waxing requires repeated trips to the salon, an epilator can be purchased to fit any budget and will last for several years.
Convenience
An epilator can be used anywhere and anytime in the privacy of your own home. It’s a great time-saver for those of us who are busy and don’t have time to get to the salon. If you’re shy or self-conscious, being able to remove hair at home with an epilator can help to relieve much of the stress associated with unwanted hair.
It can be used on short hairs
Another difference between using epilators over waxing is that you don’t have to wait in between treatments for the hair to grow out. Epilators can be used on hairs as short as 0.5mm, which means that you can enjoy being hair-free all year round.
Suitable for all skin types
Epilators are suitable for all skin types, even those with sensitive skin. That is because epilators use tweezers to remove unwanted hair, which leaves the surrounding skin undamaged. When epilating you may still experience redness and irritation, but those effects are from the hair removal and not from actual skin damage.
Disadvantages of Epilating
It can be painful
Epilators, of course, do have their downsides as well. If you are new to epilating, you may experience some pain. The most important thing to remember is to take your time and take breaks if you need to. Like waxing, the more you epilate, the more your body will get used to any discomfort. If you are looking for more tips on how to reduce epilator pain check out my article here.
May cause ingrown hairs
Like waxing, epilating may cause ingrown hairs. As with any hair removal method, exfoliating the skin regularly can help to reduce ingrown hairs.
Epilators vs Waxing: The Verdict
The decision on whether to use epilators or waxing is really up to you to make after weighing up the pros and cons of each method. The best hair removal method is the one that makes you feel comfortable and causes the fewest undesirable side effects.
In summary, waxing is a quick and effective method that can leave your skin feeling smooth and hair free for up to 6 weeks. However, it can be quite painful and can cause skin irritation and ingrown hair. Unless you’re an experienced waxer, this type of hair removal is best left to the professionals.
On the other hand, epilators can be a great cost-effective solution for people who want to remove hair quickly and efficiently in the privacy of their own home. Epilators are suitable for all skin types and can be used anytime, even the shortest hairs. Like waxing, epilating can be painful and there is a risk of ingrown hairs.
So over to you, which hair removal method do you think is best?
Hit me up with your thoughts in the comments below.