What to Consider Before Using an Eyebrow Epilator

Hair removal is a tedious chore that can be costly, inconvenient and even embarrassing. For unwanted facial hair around the eyes, shaving is not the best method since the skin can be sensitive and easily damaged. An facial epilator that can do eyebrows may be the right tool for some people.

Benefits of Using an Epilator on the Face

An epilator is a mechanic hair removal device that grabs and pulls hairs out by the root instead of shearing it off at the surface of the skin. The results last longer than other topical hair removal methods (i.e. hair removal creams) and it's easy to use. However, the pain of with yanking out multiple hairs all at once can be a bit too much for some people.

Hair epilation works better when the hairs are at least 1/4 inch long, the same length needed for if using hair removal wax. However, instead of ripping an entire strip off at once, epilating can be done at your own pace. It's normal to go slow and to repeat an area a number of times to reduce the amount of immediate pain.

Epilators are relatively inexpensive and can be used in the privacy of your own home. Since most facial hair around the eyes is fine, a powerful corded unit isn't necessary. A wet epilator may work fine but be sure to use it in front of a mirror to make contouring & shaping easier. In general, epilators don't have the accuracy to shape eyebrows; choose a "mini" version and test it out carefully - just realize that it may involve some trial-and-error. Read the instructions carefully as well, since some epilators specifically state that they are not intended for use on eyebrows.

Look for a unit that comes with different-sized attachments that narrows the epilating opening. This will allow for more accuracy, making it easier to trim & shape the narrow line of hair. You may want to specifically choose a eyebrow or facial epilator.

Cautions & Warnings

• Epilating is an learned skill and when used on the face, the user must have a steady hand to shape the eyebrow with precision. Don't rush the process or you may end up with uneven eyebrows.

• The hairs must be at least 1/4 inch long before the device can grab hold of the strands. Some people may not like to grow out their eyebrows to this noticeable length.

• Clean the unit well and sanitize it with rubbing alcohol before each use to prevent any infections from contaminating freshly opened pores.

• As men age, their eyebrows tend to grow thicker & bushier. Try trimming errant hairs with scissors before using the epilator or else one of those long strands may accidently get yanked out. OUCH!

  Using an epilator on the face requires good hand control to prevent uneven eyebrows.

   

• Users must try to prevent the hairs from breaking below the skin surface, which can lead to ingrown hairs and nasty pustules. The best way to do this is to take a warm shower to open the pores before epilating.

• The skin must be kept in good condition both before & after treatment. Exfoliate often to help the new hairs grow straight and use a moisturizing cream to prevent dry, flaking skin that can redirect the direction of hair growth, making it harder to use an epilator in the future.

An eyebrow epilator may be a good method for removal of hair around the sensitive facial skin. It's not suitable for everyone - particularly people with sensitive skin - but it can be done conveniently at home, at your own pace.