Epilator or hair removal cream? How to choose

The two do different things: an epilator pulls the hair out with its root, while hair removal cream breaks it down where it leaves the skin. That is why skin stays smooth for longer after an epilator, while cream is done in a few minutes without pain — and needs no device.

The comparison below is built around your own constraints: how much time you have, how much stinging you are willing to take, and how much you want to spend up front.

What each method does

An epilator grips hairs with small tweezers and pulls them out one at a time, root included. It is a device you buy once and use for years.

Hair removal cream and foam break the hair down chemically where it leaves the skin. You apply it, wait the time on the packaging, then wipe or rinse. The root stays in place.

How long one session takes

Cream is the faster of the two: applying and waiting usually comes to a few minutes, and it covers a large area at once. Foam is easier still, because foaming spreads it more evenly.

An epilator works hair by hair, so the same area takes longer — though you reach for it less often.

What it costs to start

Cream and foam start at the price of one tube or bottle. An epilator is a single device purchase: more up front, then very little afterwards.

If you want to try something without buying a device, cream or foam is the smaller commitment.

Which suits whom

Choose cream or foam if you want to be done quickly and without pain, are covering a larger area, or would rather not buy a device.

Choose an epilator if the length of the smooth period matters most and you can spare the longer session.

Either way, follow the usage and warning instructions on the product or in the device manual.

Frequently asked questions

Which lasts longer, an epilator or cream?

An epilator removes the hair with its root while cream breaks it down at the surface, so skin generally stays smooth for longer after an epilator.

Does hair removal cream hurt?

Cream and foam do not pull the hair out, so using them is painless. Many people find an epilator stings, especially the first few times.

Can cream be used where an epilator is used?

The areas a product may be used on are always set by its own packaging, which is what to follow — it differs from product to product.

How long does hair removal foam take?

The time given on the packaging, typically a few minutes. There is no need to leave it on longer, and it is not advised.

Epilator vs hair removal cream — which should I choose?

An epilator pulls the hair out with its root, so skin stays smooth longer but each session takes more time. Cream breaks the hair down at the surface in a few minutes with no device to buy. Pick by how much time you have and whether you want to buy equipment.

Epilator or hair removal cream?