Vogue Tests Epilators for Legs: Expert and Editor Reviews

Vogue contributor Iman Balagam, a Pakistani woman with thick hair, tested multiple epilators for legs after years of trying Nair, at-home waxing, sugaring, laser hair removal (12 sessions via Groupon), and a current routine including threading, tweezing at Sania's Brow Bar, waxing at European Wax Center, and shaving. Epilators remove hair from the root, offering weeks of smooth skin. Board-certified cosmetic physician Dmitriy Schwarzburg, MD (founder of Skinly Aesthetics) and board-certified dermatologist Sejal Shah, MD (founder of SmarterSkin Dermatology) provided expert commentary. The Philips Epilator Series 8000 was named best overall for its wider head, multiple speeds, wet-and-dry use, and cordless design. The Panasonic Epilator was best for large areas with multiple attachments and flexible head. The Braun Epilator Silk-epil 3 3-270 was best value with massage rollers and corded dry-only use. The Philips Epilator Series 2000 was best for travel due to its compact size and simplicity. Experts recommend legs as the easiest area to start epilating. Drawbacks include discomfort, temporary redness, ingrown hairs, and need for 2-5mm hair length. Editor Balagam noted pain but effective results, with the Philips 8000 used in the shower being manageable though loud.