Whether you want to remove peach fuzz from your face, smooth your legs, eliminate stubble in your armpits, or experiment with a full-on Brazilian, the best epilators can help. Most of these at-home hair removal devices can be used all over the face and body to get your desired results.
Best Epilators 2023:
- Best Overall: Silk-Épil 3 Epilator, $40
- Best Budget: Remington Smooth & Silky Deluxe Rechargeable Electric Epilator, $39
- Best for Coarse Hair: Philips Series 8000 Rechargeable 5-in-1 Shaver, Trimmer, Pedicure, and Exfoliator, $120
- Best for Legs: Panasonic Premium Cordless Epilator, $85
- Best for Bikini: Braun Silk-Épil Cordless 3-in-1 Wet & Dry Epilator, $170
- Best for Face: Braun FaceSpa Pro 2-in-1 Facial Epilator & Cleansing Brush System, $80
Trimmers and face razors may be a reliable choice already, but these tools tackle only hair above the skin, so odds are anything you trim or shave will grow back in a flash. For hair removal methods that provide more longevity, waxing kits are a decent alternative. The problem here: Waxing can be painful—whether it's sugaring or strips—and hair does eventually grow back. Which leaves you either with in-office treatments like laser hair removals or at-home epilators.
The difference between the latter two is simple: Lasers are more permanent since they work to kill the hair follicle, but what if you’re not sure you want the hair to be gone forever? Epilators provide a great happy medium between the more temporary options listed above and the permanence of a laser. “Epilators work by grabbing the hairs with rotating tweezer head blades to pull from the root,” says Diane Madfes, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “It’s similar to waxing but does a better job protecting the skin and is a great way to remove hair in the privacy of your home.”
Epilators vary in size depending on their use, and you can find specific devices for the face or body. Smaller ones are ideal for targeting tough-to-reach areas (hi, upper lip), while more sizable options are better suited for larger surfaces—think your thighs or lower legs. Select devices also come with several interchangeable attachments for flexibility and versatility, says Debra Jaliman, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City.
“A good epilator is one that is easy to grip and hold and works quickly to pull hairs from the root, including the shorter hairs,” adds Rachel Nazarian, MD, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City. “Many good ones have ergonomic handles with grips so that it's easy for your fingers to cling to, and can pull 40 or more hairs quickly, allowing for rapid treatment of larger surfaces.”
Just as you probably wouldn't dry-shave your underarms or pubic area, it's important to prep skin before using any kind of epilator to help minimize pain. To do so, Dr. Jaliman recommends taking “a warm shower to open up your hair follicles” as well as “exfoliate to prep skin and remove any dead skin cells that could hinder efficacy.”
Using an epilator is pretty straightforward too. Dr. Madfes recommends moving the epilator in the direction of hair growth, as you would with a razor or a waxing strip. Once you're done—and after each use—make sure to rinse out your device to get rid of the tiniest hairs and prevent residue buildup. “It’s important to keep the device clean to reduce the risk of infection,” says Dr. Nazarian.
As for the risks? There aren't many. “The pain is mild and decreases with subsequent use,” says Dr. Nazarian. “Ultimately, by removing hair from the root, you can get decreased hair growth over time, and hairs often return softer and finer, with many experiencing permanent hair loss after consistent use.”
Ready to find the best epilator out there for you? From a top-rated face gadget to a corded epilator with multiple speed settings and attachments, dermatologists recommend these 12 tools for pain-free hair removal, below.
All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.
- Courtesy of brand1/12
Silk-épil 3 Epilator
$40Target
For a multipurpose epilator that comes at a wallet-friendly price, dermatologists universally recommend this one by Braun. It functions as an epilator that’s easy enough for newbies and gentle enough for those with mildly sensitive skin, but it can also be used as a shaver and a trimmer. Plus, it’s designed to fit comfortably in the palm of your hand to help you get a better grip.
- Pros: Compact, lightweight, beginner-friendly.
- Cons: Can be used only on dry skin.
- Number of tweezers: 20
- Type: Corded
- What reviewers say: “The first time I purchased this epilator was 9 years ago and it lasted me almost 10 years. I recently repurchased a new one because this is a great epilator. It’s perfect for my underarms and thins out the hair over time. Therefore you have smooth armpits with no shadow. I love this product.” —Becca, reviewer at Target
Save when you shop for the best epilators with these Target promo codes.
- Courtesy of brand2/12
Remington Smooth & Silky Deluxe Rechargeable Electric Epilator
$39Target
You don’t have to spend a ton for a quality option, and this epilator by Remington proves that. You may sacrifice some functionally—like the ability to shave or trim—but this device can be used on all areas of the body. Use the larger built-in head for areas like the legs or back; snap on the precision cap for targeted spots on the face. Also nice: a built-in light that allows for a closer look at some of those shorter hairs.
- Pros: Includes a massaging cap with aloe vera.
- Cons: Shorter battery life.
- Number of tweezers: 40
- Type: Battery-operated
- What reviewers say: “This is by far the best epilator I have bought. I tried other brands. I wasn't getting the same results. It is on the pricey side but worth it. And mind you, I have thick facial hair that is noticeable and embarrassing if I don't attend to it every week. I have use creams, manually tweezing...etc., but it takes too long. I wanted something that does it's job and showing good results. This epilator makes my face look clean and smooth.” —Antoinette, reviewer at Target
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- Courtesy of brand3/12
Braun Silk-epil 9 SensoSmart Epilator
$129Ulta
This epilator has a large head that’s ideal for larger body surfaces, such as the legs, backs, and arms, says Dr. Madfes. It’s also a good option for anyone worried about the pain associated with epilation. The device has multiple speeds, which reviewers say helps with the pain—simply start on a lower speed until your tolerance for the process builds up. As a nice bonus, you can also use the tool to shave and trim hair.
- Pros: Can be used on wet or dry skin; massage rollers.
- Cons: Beginners say it can be painful.
- Number of tweezers: 40
- Type: Battery-operated
- What reviewers say: “I'm not going to lie, the first time is not fun. BUT, do it in small sections, and take breaks. After the first time, it is nothing at all. I love having smooth legs 100% of the time. No stubble, ever. I use it approximately once every 4-5 days quickly, and do a long session about every 10 days. If you can make it through the first round, your life will be changed. I hated shaving, the second I got out of the shower, I got the chills and had stubble. No more!” —Seralet, reviewer at Ulta
Save when you shop for the best epilators with these Ulta promo codes.
- Courtesy of brand4/12
Philips Series 8000 Rechargeable 5-in-1 Shaver, Trimmer, Pedicure and Exfoliator
$120Target
Though this device is on the pricier side, it functions as five different tools (via an impressive nine different attachments!) for maximum versatility. Use it to shave, trim hair, smooth feet, exfoliate, and—yes—epilate. Dr. Madfes says this epilator is particularly great for the coarse hair that grows on areas like your legs since it gets a great grip on multiple hairs at once. Reviewers also love that it has two speeds for further customization and comfort.
- Pros: Can be used on wet or dry skin; great for coarse hair.
- Cons: Reviewers note that larger areas can take long.
- Number of tweezers: 32
- Type: Cordless
- What reviewers say: “It's very very easy to use, it's rechargeable and can be used on dry or wet skin, it's durable and has lasted me (so far) a year! My favorite shaver/epilator ever. The epilator is also very easy to use and is not as painful as most other epilators. Plus, it has clip-ons that help make it easier and reduce pain.” —Steph, reviewer at Target
Save when you shop for the best epilators with these Target promo codes.
- Courtesy of brand5/12
Iluminage Touch Home Permanent Hair Removal Device
$449Nordstrom
Expensive? No doubt. But reviewers say this epilator is worth the splurge, noticeably reducing the thickness of hair in just a few weeks. It comes with three heads: one for larger areas, one for the face, and one for shaving. Consider it an investment—you’ll never have to replace any heads, and some reviewers note their machine is still going strong after three or four years.
- Pros: Reduces hair permanently; great for all genders.
- Cons: Expensive.
- Number of tweezers: 0 (uses IPL and radiofrequency)
- Type: Corded
- What reviewers say: “I was skeptical about this at first but really wanted something to work for my body hair as I'm tired of ingrown hair and blemishes that come with that. I've been using it for 2 weeks now and already see the difference.” —RJ, reviewer at Nordstrom
Save when you shop for the best epilators with these Nordstrom promo codes.
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- Courtesy of brand6/12
Panasonic Premium Cordless Epilator for Wet & Dry With 5 Attachments
$85Target
“I like this epilator for legs, although the attachments allow you to use it for other areas too,” says Dr. Jaliman. The device is flexible beyond the area of your body you use it on—you can use this epilator on wet or dry skin. It can also be used as a shaver and a trimmer. And for any hard-to-reach areas? Reviewers love the built-in LED light, which helps illuminate those spots, so you can catch any stray hairs.
- Pros: LED light, multiple caps; can be used on wet or dry skin.
- Cons: Can cause discomfort.
- Number of tweezers: 60
- Type: Battery-operated
- What reviewers say: “I have used epilators for years now, and the best ones can be used wet and dry like this one from Braun. Use the epilator when you're in a hot shower, so open up your pores and it will be less painful. Also, if your hair is short and thick it won't always pull it correctly. Let the hair grow long, then the epilator will pull the hairs from the root and then it grows back thinner. It just takes a few tries to get used to.” —Ashley, reviewer at Target
Save when you shop for the best epilators with these Target promo codes.
- Courtesy of brand7/12
Braun FaceSpa Pro FE 910 2-in-1 Facial Epilator & Cleansing Brush System
$80Walmart
While it’s safe to use epilators on the face, removing the hair around the most delicate areas can be a tricky task. Most epilators on the market are bulky and have large heads, making it difficult to reach areas like the upper lip. This facial-hair remover by Braun is different because the device is longer than it is wide, meaning it's easier to hold in the palm of your hand. What’s more, the tip is super small and precise, so you can target even the smallest spots on your face, like the space between your eyebrows.
- Pros: Works as a cleansing and hair removal system; compact.
- Cons: Only for small areas.
- Number of tweezers: 10
- Type: Cordless
- What reviewers say: “This product leaves my face squeaky clean after each use! The epilating feature works great and leaves my face super smooth with no stubble. I've used this product over a month and I've been impressed with its features and design time after time.” —Beth, reviewer at Walmart
- Courtesy of brand8/12
Braun Silk-epil 9-020 Flex Women's Cordless 3-in-1 Wet & Dry Epilator + 5 Extra Accessories
$170Walmart
Unlike other epilators, this one has a flexible head that angles into hard-to-reach spots, like the bikini line. It also has a sensor that helps users figure out how much pressure to apply, says Dr. Madfes, who calls it her “favorite” epilator on the market. Reviewers are similarly excited about this bikini trimmer, saying it’s easy for beginners to operate on sensitive areas and leaves the skin feeling smoother than ever, even for those with thick, coarse hair. What's more, this kit comes with three exfoliation brushes and massage attachments to prevent ingrown hairs around the bikini area—no plucking or tweezing here.
- Pros: Extra-wide head, multiple brushes and massage attachments.
- Cons: Can take really long.
- Number of tweezers: 40
- Type: Cordless
- What reviewers say: “I'd never used an epilator before so I was a bit apprehensive, but I was pleasantly surprised! On first use, my skin was a bit sensitive but it calmed down quickly, and now I've grown used to it. This effectively removes hair and leaves my skin soft and smooth. I also love the face-washing brush!” —Kimmee, reviewer at Walmart
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- Courtesy of brand9/12
Flawless Finishing Touch
$20Ulta
$19Amazon
Okay, this might be a little bit of a cheat, since it’s not technically an epilator, but Dr. Madfes says this hair removal device is the best solution for anyone with sensitive skin. While the results don’t last as long, the device couldn’t be easier to use and it won’t leave skin red and inflamed. Simply turn it on, and the trimmer will quickly and efficiently buzz off any fuzz.
- Pros: Handheld; targets facial hair.
- Cons: Doesn't remove hair from the root; not for large areas.
- Number of tweezers: 0 (uses spinning head)
- Type: Battery-operated
- What reviewers say: “I've always suffered with facial hair skeptical to try anything new finally tried this and I'm sorry I didn't try it sooner I use it and now it seems my hair doesn't grow back as fast or as much.” —Rita, reviewer on Amazon
Save when you shop for the best epilators with these Ulta promo codes.
- Courtesy of brand10/12
Ulike Air 3 IPL Laser Hair Remover
$329Amazon
Some epilators get pretty warm upon skin contact, but not this guy. The ULike Air 3 has a cool head, set at 50°F, to be exact. It works this way to prevent the top layer of your skin from getting burned during the hair removal process. There's also an auto-glide mode to remove hair from larger areas a lot faster.
- Pros: Cooling head, auto-glide mode.
- Cons: Expensive.
- Number of tweezers: 0 (uses IPL)
- Type: Corded
- What reviewers say: “This hair removal system is truly painless. You really do start seeing results. I was so impressed that I got another one for my daughter. Love the idea of never shaving again.” —Karen, reviewer on Amazon
- Courtesy of brand11/12
Conair Girlbomb Rechargeable Epilator
$60Target
If you have sensitive skin, keep reading. Conair's Girlbomb epilator includes a sensitive-skin attachment that prevents extra-close contact as it does its job. A full charge can also get you 60 minutes of work if you're having a full-body hair removal sesh.
- Pros: Easy to maneuver; includes ice roller for soothing skin afterward.
- Cons: Takes a few tries to grab all hair.
- Number of tweezers: 40
- Type: Battery-operated
- What reviewers say: “I tried this epilator for the first time. It was very easy to set up for a beginner and worked amazingly. My legs are so smooth now. I didn't even need the ice roller, but it was a nice touch for sensitive skin. The level of pain using it is much less than I would have thought.” —Tiffany, reviewer at Target
Save when you shop for the best epilators with these Target promo codes.
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- Courtesy of brand12/12
Epilady Speed Corded Epilator
$50 $40Amazon
For a $50 pick, you can't go wrong with this corded epilator, which removes hairs from the root with 40 tweezer heads and operates at two different speeds; the faster being ideal for thicker hair.
- Pros: Beginner-friendly.
- Cons: Can be used only on dry skin.
- Number of tweezers: 40
- Type: Corded
- What reviewers say: “Little pain and easy to use and get hair by the root and no time just like shaving with a little pain but gets hair by the root. Very impressed by this product and was scared to use at first and then realized it was simple and did the job quickly and efficiently.” —Kelsey, reviewer on Amazon
