Should you use an epilator for facial hair removal? Here’s what Delhi’s top dermatologist says

Every woman will attest to the fact that hair removal is an important process. Now, we know there are multiple hair removal methods ranging from shaving to waxing. The new one, however, is epilation. It’s like waxing but minus all the mess. What’s more, it has gained a bigger fan following, thanks to the novel coronavirus, since it reduces salon visits and contact with people. You can do it all by yourself from the comfort of your home!

All you need to do is make a one-time investment in a good epilator and you’re good to go for your removal requirements. Epilators completely remove hair from the root without tugging on your skin. Hence, it gives you smooth skin for upto a month without all the pain and rashes caused by waxing and shaving.

it works brilliantly for the body, but is it also good for facial hair? 

When it comes to facial hair removal, most take the help of threading or waxing. Not only are these processes extremely painful but also come with their own risk of irritation, rashes and scarring. Can epilators minimize such risks and be safe to use on the face?

We asked Dr Kiran Sethi, a renowned skin specialist from Delhi and the founder of Isya Aesthetics, about using epilators on the face for hair removal. She says: “Yes, epilators are safe for facial hair removal but its important to use them carefully. ” 

She recommends being extremely careful and taking care of the following things when removing facial hair using an epilator:

“Epilate in direction of the hair to prevent ingrown hair. Soften the hair with a cleansing lotion like Cetaphil before the epilation process. Afterwards, use a nice alpha hydroxy acid or beta hydroxy acid lotion to prevent obstruction or ingrown hair. You need to make it a point to moisturise afterwards because epilation can be a bit drying for the skin.”

Talking about things to keep in mind, she says that you need to take care of the equipment as well to ensure that the hair removal process is safe. She adds:

So, what could be the possible side-effects of epilation on the face?

Dr Sethi explains: “Epilators can sometimes result in redness and bumpiness post-treatment but that usually settles. But, some people can get acne! So, you should probably avoid this method if you’re already prone to acne.”

So what’s safer than epilation for facial hair removal? 

She said, “The best way to remove facial hair is to opt for facial laser hair removal. It removes the hair and you don’t have to regularly put your skin under stress which can lead to discomfort or irritation.”

So, ladies, use that epilator on your face without any worries but do keep in mind Dr Sethi’s recommendations!