Joybuy Insights

How to choose an electric hair removal device for face and body

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.

The pitfalls to avoid before buying

Don't confuse epilation, shaving and trimming

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.

Relying on comfort claims without examining the design

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 head or foil designed to limit direct contact with the skin;
  • a trimming attachment to maintain an even length;
  • a non-slip handle;
  • multiple speeds or intensity levels;
  • a device that can be used dry and in water, if this function is explicitly stated.

Neglecting maintenance and battery life

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 technical criteria to check

1. The technology based on the result you want

  • Tweezer epilator: suitable for legs and areas where you want to remove hair from the root. The Braun Silk-épil 5 and 9 models claim to capture hairs as short as 0.5 mm.
  • Body razor: ideal for quickly shaving the chest, back or intimate areas. A protective foil and spaced blades can also make rinsing easier.
  • Bikini and underarm trimmer: practical for shortening hair without necessarily aiming for perfectly smooth skin. The 2 mm or 3 mm combs allow you to maintain an even length.
  • At-home IPL: only worth considering after checking the compatibility between your hair colour, skin tone and the areas to be treated. The devices shown here indicate restrictions for white, grey and very light hair, as well as certain dark skin tones.

2. Water resistance and safety of use

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:

  • that the charging port is completely dry before plugging it in;
  • that the manufacturer allows rinsing of the head;
  • that the casing is not cracked;
  • that use in the shower is specifically mentioned in the instruction manual.

3. Precision and accessories

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.

Which solution for your profile?

Recommended for: Beginners on a budget
Electric hair remover wet and dry

Electric Epilator Wet & Dry, 3 interchangeable heads

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.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The interchangeable heads mean you don't have to buy several devices to treat different areas.

Key advantage and highlights

Use dry or in water, plus three dedicated heads for body, face and eyebrows.

Recommended for: Premium enthusiasts
BRAUN Silk-épil 9 SES9-000

BRAUN Silk-épil 9 SES9-000

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.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The pivoting head and two speeds allow it to better adapt to the body's contours and your skin's sensitivity.

Key advantage and highlights

40 tweezers, a head claimed to be 40% wider and a battery life of up to 50 minutes.

Recommended for: Specific uses and heavy users
Philips Series 3000 BG3480/15

Philips Series 3000 BG3480/15 Men's Body Groomer

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.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The 2 mm and 3 mm combs prevent the device from being limited to a uniform shave against the skin.

Key advantage and highlights

Claimed 100% waterproof, cutting precision down to 0.2 mm and a battery life of up to 80 minutes.

Recommended for: Those seeking an at-home IPL solution
BRAUN Silk Expert Pro 5 PL5054 IPL

BRAUN Silk·Expert Pro 5 PL5054 IPL Hair Removal Device

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.

How this product avoids the pitfall

The skin tone sensor and gentle modes prevent applying a single intensity level without the adaptation intended by the manufacturer.

Key advantage and highlights

IPL technology, claimed detection of skin tones I to V and approximately 400,000 flashes according to the product specification.

Looking for other options?

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.

Tips for minimising discomfort

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.

FAQ on electric hair removal devices

Which device should I choose for the bikini line and underarms?

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.

How long does the battery last on a rechargeable device?

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.

Is at-home IPL suitable for all hair types?

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.