Epilator Side Effects—Are Epilators Worth It?
Hair removal is one of those necessary evils if you want smooth skin. Every method has its advantages and disadvantages when it comes to cost and convenience.
You may think that shaving is the worst of the bunch. It’s worth knowing up front what to expect with epilator side effects.
Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent them and make the task less painful. Let’s review the facts about this hairy problem.
How Does an Epilator Work?
You can think of epilating as a form of mechanized waxing. You use an electric or battery-operated device to do the pulling Instead of wax strips grabbing the hairs.
It differs from waxing in that it’s more efficient and doesn’t involve the mess. You’ll find several types from which to choose based on the way they remove hair.
Your options include:
- Spring Action
- Tweezer
- Rotating Disc
- Wet
You can find products that you can use on your face and even in the shower. The epilator side effects vary with the type and usage.
Why You Consider Using an Epilator
There are several advantages to going the epilator route that will make you toss away your razor forever. First, it has no replaceable parts so that you’re not paying more for it down the road.
Compare that to shaving. You may think that the initial cost seems reasonable until it comes time to swap out the old blade for a new one.
Replacements aren’t cheap, but neither is the alternative. Even if you get several weeks out of a disposable one, it still ends up in the trash and ultimately, a landfill.
An epilator will run you under $100 for a decent model. If you do the math, you’ll see that you’ll quickly recoup your cost versus disposable razors or replacement blades.
Another reason to consider an epilator involves convenience. Hair removal isn’t a fun task, but it would certainly reduce the sting if you could go longer between sessions.
Because an epilator pulls hairs out from the roots, your skin will stay smoother longer. The effort is the same between shaving and epilating, but at least the effects will make it more worthwhile.
How to Recognize the Side Effects
There exists a strong argument for ditching the razor. However, it’s essential also to consider the epilator hair removal side effects to make an informed decision.
Most of the problems occur from improper usage. It can happen if you’re not operating it correctly, or you’re not following the recommended procedure.
The FDA regulates epilators and other hair removal techniques and products. At least, you know that you’re using something that it deems safe to use.
1. How Your Skin’s Sensitivity Affects Your Experience
Using an epilator isn’t for everyone. If you have sensitive skin, you may have issues no matter how closely you follow the directions.
Some models include different attachments that can make using one less painful. The fact remains, however, that you’ll be less likely to have problems if you use it regularly.
You can also take some preventive actions to make epilator side effects less likely. For example, you should always start with clean skin to avoid creating an environment for bacteria to develop.
The effects of using an epilator on face are similar. We recommend using one on your legs first before someplace more noticeable.
2. Symptoms of Inflammation That You Should Know
Pain is your body’s way of warning you about a potential danger. We won’t sugarcoat the truth.
You’ll probably experience some discomfort the first time you use an epilator if just because it’s something new. It may occur only while you’re using the device and linger for a short time afterward.
Other symptoms are signs that your immune system has kicked into gear. You may notice things such as:
- Redness
- Swelling
- Warmth
- Itchiness
All are indications of inflammation. That’s where proper usage comes into play.
If you use it right, an epilator won’t damage your skin. However, if you press down too hard, you’ll risk hurting the upper layer which can leave vulnerable to more serious side effects.
Some may occur if you don’t prepare your skin before epilating. As we discussed, the device removes hair by pulling it from the root, but it shouldn’t be too long.
That can lead to bruising and perhaps, even bleeding. Another concern rests with blotchy skin. That can happen if you don’t exfoliate before you begin.
Exfoliating makes it easier for the epilator to grasp the individual hairs. It’ll do the job well if you make it easier with some initial prep.
3. Ingrown Hairs
Ingrown hairs are a common issue with both waxing and epilating if you pull them in the opposite direction of their growth. They will turn back toward skin instead of laying on it.
You may not notice them at first. Then, you might see odd bumps on your skin at the site where you epilated.
They may become irritated and painful if left untreated. It also could lead to an infection or scarring in more serious cases.
Prevention is always the best medicine. That’s why we stressed the importance of clean skin and exfoliation before using your epilator as an effective way to avoid problems.
You may find it helpful to warm your skin first with a washcloth or a quick hot shower. But all’s not lost if you already have one or a few.
What to Do If You Have an Ingrown Hair
Your body will react to the ingrown hair like anything else that it considers a possible source of infection. That’s where you may see the symptoms of inflammation in these cases too.
You may need to get your doctor involved to get the hair out if it’s become more serious. If you have an infection, she may prescribe a topical or oral antibiotic.
You can also use a product that contains alpha hydroxy or salicylic acids to get the redness and swelling under control.
How to Care for Your Skin After Epilating
You can prevent most epilator side effects by taking care of your skin after you’ve finished. Remember that it’s more sensitive now after hair removal.
Avoid rubbing your skin which can aggravate an existing condition. That means no scratching or picking at it either.
Allow your body to recover from the treatment. Don’t wear tight clothing that can lead to irritation and chafing at the site.
You may find it helpful—and quite soothing—to place a cool washcloth on your skin. That will reduce the more unpleasant symptoms of inflammation such as redness and itchiness.
It’ll also speed recovery by lessening the swelling and heat you may feel. Make sure to start with a clean washcloth and rinse it frequently.
You can also apply body lotion especially one that contains aloe vera. Avoid using products that are too heavy or greasy which can create a favorable environment for bacteria.
Conclusion
You can avoid epilator side effects if you prepare your skin properly before using it. Cleaning and exfoliating your skin are essential.
These simple measures can allow you to enjoy the benefits of using one. After all, an epilator is a sound investment that is both effective and eco-friendly.
