If you’ve ever worried about peach fuzz on your upper lip or a stray hair on your chin, you’re not alone. In one study, 75% of women reported feeling anxious about dealing with excessive facial hair. And while shaving helps with hair removal in the short term, the results don’t tend to last long before stubble returns.
That’s where epilators come in. Epilation removes hair from the root, meaning you stay smooth for up to four weeks rather than a few days. So, if you want smoother skin for longer, here’s everything you need to know.
What is facial epilation and how does it work?
An epilator uses rotating discs to grip and pull multiple hairs out at once. Think of it as lots of tweezers plucking at the same time. For example, the Panasonic ES-EY90-A511 Double Disc Wet & Dry Epilator includes 60 tiny tweezers, so even tiny hairs can’t escape.
Razors cut hair at the surface, which means they tend to grow back within a few days. Whereas results from epilators can last two to four weeks. Epilators remove hairs from the root, so it takes longer for them to grow back. And unlike IPL hair removal, you can see results from the first session.
Can you safely epilate your face?
You can epilate your face, but just be careful. Skin on your face is more delicate than the rest of your body. It's best to choose a device that's designed for facial use or includes a facial attachment.
Many women use an epilator on areas including the upper lip, chin, jawline, sideburns and cheeks. But it’s best to steer clear near the eyes or any areas where the skin would be extra sensitive, like around spots or sunburns.
How to prepare your skin before facial epilation
A little prep can help make facial epilation feel more comfortable and effective.
Time it right – Epilating in the evening is a good idea as it means any redness has a chance to calm down overnight.
Cleanse thoroughly – Wash your face with a gentle cleanser to remove makeup, skincare products and excess oil. This helps the tweezers grip hairs easier.
Gentle exfoliation – A mild exfoliation routine before epilation can help remove dead skin and free trapped hairs, making it easier for the epilator to grab them.
Dry your skin, if required – Check the instructions for your epilator. Some are designed for wet and dry use, but others work best on completely dry skin.
Check hair length – Facial hair should be around 0.5mm or longer so the epilator can grip it effectively.
Attachments and speed – Many epilators include facial attachments to improve precision and comfort. Start on a lower speed for better control around sensitive areas like the upper lip and chin.
Stretch the skin gently – Holding the skin taut while epilating makes the hairs stand up so you can remove them more effectively.
What does facial epilation feel like?
So the big question – does epilating hurt? It’s often described as a brief stinging or plucking feeling, so it can be a bit uncomfortable at first. Especially in more sensitive areas like around your upper lip or chin. But the good news is many people find it gets easier over time, as there are often fewer hairs to remove and you get used to the feeling.
Using a wet and dry epilator like the Braun Silk-épil 9 Flex 9 3D SE9-030 in the shower can help. Warm water softens the skin and makes hair removal feel less intense. And regular sessions can also mean hair grows back finer over time.
Facial epilation aftercare tips
Looking after your skin after epilation is key. It’s normal to experience some mild redness right after treatment, so here’s some ways to stay comfortable afterwards.
Soothe the skin – Apply a light, fragrance-free moisturiser or aloe vera gel to keep your skin hydrated.
Skip harsh skincare products – Avoid strong exfoliants, acids and retinoids for the rest of the day to help your skin settle down.
Wait before applying makeup – If possible, leave your skin makeup-free for a few hours to keep pores free from product build-up.
Avoid touching the area too much – Try not to rub or touch freshly epilated skin, as this can lead to irritation.
Return to your usual routine gradually – Once any redness or sensitivity has died down, you can go back to your normal skincare routine.
Wear SPF – Freshly epilated skin is more sensitive to UV rays, so make sure you put on SPF before heading outside.
Facial epilation vs shaving, waxing & IPL
With so many hair removal methods about, it can be tricky to know which one is best for you. Here’s some of the most common devices to help you pick.
| Hair removal method | How it works | How long results typically last | Best for | Things to consider |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Epilators | Removes hair from the root using rotating tweezers or discs. | Usually between 2 to 4 weeks. | Longer-lasting results without waxing. | Can feel uncomfortable at first while you get used to the sensation. |
| Shavers | Cuts hair at the skin's surface. | Typically 1 to 3 days. | Quick touch-ups and everyday maintenance. | Hair grows back quickly, so you'll need to shave more often. |
| Wax strips | Removes multiple hairs from the root. | Usually between 2 to 3 weeks. | Treating larger areas in one go. | Can be messy and may require more preparation. |
| IPL hair removers | Uses light pulses to target hair follicles. | Can help reduce regrowth for months after a course of treatments. | A longer-term approach with minimal ongoing maintenance. | Results take time and aren't suitable for all hair and skin types. |
Choosing the best facial hair removal device
When shopping for an epilator for facial hair, some features can make the experience feel much easier and more comfortable.
Precision attachments
Pick a model that includes precision caps and facial attachments to help target smaller areas more effectively.
The Philips BRE718/00 Series 8000 comes with 5 attachments, including a sensitive cap which is a gentle option for facial use. You should always follow the manufacturer’s guidance for your specific device.
Wet and dry functionality
A wet and dry epilator lets you remove hair while in the shower or bath. Warm water can be a big help in making epilation more comfortable.
Easy cleaning
A removable head and washable components make it easier to keep the device hygienic. Using a clean epilator can help reduce the likelihood of skin irritation caused by trapped hair and debris.
Built-in lighting
Integrated lights make it easier to spot fine hairs that could be missed. The Braun Silk-épil Series 3 3-202 includes a smart light so you can avoid going over the same areas again.
Cordless operation
Without a cable in the way, it’s much easier to glide over areas like your chin and jawline. And it means you can take it with you for quick touch-ups while travelling.
Speed settings
Adjustable speeds are especially helpful for beginners, as lower settings give you more control when tackling sensitive facial areas.
Need more help?
If you're looking for facial hair removal options at home, it's worth comparing epilators alongside ladies trimmers and other personal grooming solutions to find the best match for you.
FAQs
Is it safe to epilate your face?
Yes, when you use a device designed for facial use and follow the manufacturer’s guidance. Just avoid broken skin, active spots and the area around the eyes.
Should I epilate my facial hair?
If you want longer-lasting results and you’d rather avoid regular salon trips, facial epilation is worth a go. It works best on the upper lip, chin and jawline.
What are the downsides of using a face epilator?
Initial discomfort and temporary redness are the main ones. And hair needs to be long enough for the epilator to grip to work effectively.
Do dermatologists recommend epilators?
Many consider them a safe at-home option when used correctly. They typically advise against using epilators over active skin conditions, sunburned skin or areas with broken capillaries.
Does facial hair grow back thicker after epilating?
No. Unlike shaving, which cuts hair at the surface leaving a blunt tip, epilation removes it from the root. Over time, regrowing hairs can appear finer and less noticeable.
