Legs, underarms, chest, back, bikini line or face: an electric hair removal device can make home grooming much simpler, provided you choose a technology that suits your needs. An epilator pulls hair out from the root, a trimmer shortens it, a razor cuts it as close to the skin as possible, and an at-home IPL device works gradually on regrowth.
Price and the number of accessories alone aren't enough to make the right choice. Here are the criteria to consider before buying, along with a selection of models suited to different user profiles in the UK.
An electric body epilator fitted with tweezers removes hair from the root. The result generally lasts longer, but the sensation can be quite noticeable, especially during the first few uses. Conversely, a body razor or trimmer cuts hair at the surface: it's quick, but regrowth often becomes visible sooner.
IPL should not be confused with medical laser. It uses pulsed light designed for home use, with gradual results that vary depending on hair colour and skin tone.
Mentions like "painless epilation" or "no irritation" are not universal guarantees. Comfort depends on the area being treated, skin sensitivity, hair length and the technique used.
For sensitive areas, instead look for:
A device that's difficult to clean can quickly become a chore in daily use. Check for a washable head, the ability to replace blades, and access to the parts that come into contact with hair. For frequent use, also compare battery life, the type of charging and the time needed for a full recharge.
The mention Wet & Dry generally means the device can be used on dry or damp skin, in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. A certification such as IPX7 corresponds to protection against temporary immersion under conditions defined by the standard. It does not, however, mean the device can be used in water while plugged in.
For a waterproof device, always check:
A pivoting head can better follow the body's contours, while a narrow head makes it easier to work on the face and small areas. Accessories are only really useful if they match your routine: trimming comb, precision head, attachment for sensitive areas, built-in light or storage pouch.
For an IPL device, also check for a skin tone sensor, the number of intensity levels and the size of the light window. Always follow the instruction manual, carry out the preliminary patch test on a small area and take note of any contraindications listed.
Why this choice suits this profile: Its three heads let you take care of the body, face and eyebrows with a single device, without having to invest in several specialised tools from the start.
The interchangeable heads mean you don't have to buy several devices to treat different areas.
Use dry or in water, plus three dedicated heads for body, face and eyebrows.
Why this choice suits this profile: It's aimed at those who prioritise root-level epilation, a wide head and flexible use in the bath or shower.
The pivoting head and two speeds allow it to better adapt to the body's contours and your skin's sensitivity.
40 tweezers, a head claimed to be 40% wider and a battery life of up to 50 minutes.
Why this choice suits this profile: This men's groomer is designed for regular maintenance of the chest, legs and sensitive areas, both dry and in water.
The 2 mm and 3 mm combs prevent the device from being limited to a uniform shave against the skin.
Claimed 100% waterproof, cutting precision down to 0.2 mm and a battery life of up to 80 minutes.
Why this choice suits this profile: It's suitable for adults who want to incorporate pulsed light into their routine for the body, face and certain small areas, with a corded device.
The skin tone sensor and gentle modes prevent applying a single intensity level without the adaptation intended by the manufacturer.
IPL technology, claimed detection of skin tones I to V and approximately 400,000 flashes according to the product specification.
We've put together a comprehensive, real-time updated selection of products that meet these strict selection criteria and the requirements of European safety regulations.
Prepare clean, dry skin when the instruction manual asks you to. With an epilator, gently stretch the skin and move slowly in the recommended direction. With a trimmer or razor for sensitive areas, start with a comb attachment if you don't yet know how your skin will react.
Never use a device on irritated, cut or sunburnt skin, or on any area with a lesion. On intimate areas, avoid any direct contact with mucous membranes and make sure you have sufficient lighting. After each session, clean the head or blade according to the instructions, then let it dry completely.
For IPL, shave the area if the manual advises it, carry out a patch test first and never flash the same spot multiple times during a single session. Tattoos, dark moles, scars, certain skin conditions and areas near the eyes may be among the usage restrictions.
A bikini and underarm trimmer fitted with a comb, a non-slip handle and a precision head is suitable for maintaining and shortening hair. For a perfectly smooth result, a razor designed for the body will generally be more suitable. A tweezer epilator is still an option if you're comfortable with a more noticeable sensation and if the manual allows its use on the area in question.
The usage time depends on the battery, how often you use it and how well you maintain the device. The product specifications state, for example, up to 50 minutes for the Braun Silk-épil 9 and up to 80 minutes for the Philips BG3480/15. These figures are indicative: the selected power level, the battery's condition and hair density can all affect the actual battery life.
No. Pulsed light is generally not very effective on white, grey or very light hair, and some devices are not suitable for very dark skin tones. Consult the instruction manual, check the contraindications and carry out the required skin patch test before using it on a larger area.