When it comes to hair removal, I have always opted for waxing as I prefer the hair be removed from the root. As I've been waxing since I was 16, I no longer find waxing painful, in fact, I find it quite relaxing!
I heard about epilators a while back and I thought it would be handy for those times where I can’t get to a beautician or when stray hairs would grow between waxes. I have quite a high pain threshold so I wasn't too concerned about that, however, I didn't understand why there were so many models on the market, wasn't it just a battery powered tweezer?
I guess the universe wanted to satisfy my curiosity because I was sent the Braun Silk-épil 9 SkinSpa 9-961V to review and it came with 12 extra attachments. With 3 different epilator attachments, 2 body brushes, a deep massage pad and 2 shaver heads, I could experience epilation in all its glory!
FACTS ABOUT THE PRODUCT
Packaging: It came in a black box that once opened had the appliance, individually plastic wrapped attachments, a Euro 2-pin plug cord, a charging stand and a manual.
Product: It is very sleek and feminine which I absolutely love! The attachments are easy to use and it comes with a handy bag to store them all in. The epilator requires charging via a power supply; it takes about an hour to fully charge and it gives you about 40mins of cordless use. There are two speed settings available.
How I used it: I have tried it on my legs on both dry and wet skin, in both instances I used the second speed setting, held the epilator at a 90º angle and glided the epilator slowly upwards. As a body brush, I moved the appliance in circular motions over my skin in the shower.
FINAL THOUGHTS
I had previously heard that epilation was very painful but the Braun Silk-épil 9 SkinSpa 9-961V's 'massage cap' definitely made it more comfortable in comparison to the 'skin contact cap'.
When compared to waxing, epilation is similar in pain levels but unlike with waxing where the pain is gone within seconds, epilation prolongs that sensation which made the whole process a much more uncomfortable one for me.
I noticed that most hairs did come out from the root but that some were broken which can cause ingrown hairs.
It requires a few passes for optimum results.
I prefer to use it on dry skin, it's just simpler overall.
I personally found it quite tedious to clean, although there is a cleaning brush provided, it takes a while to get it clean.
I wish it wasn't so noisy! It's so small but it's as loud as a blender lol!
It has definitely become a staple in my hair removal process, it's perfect for the days where you haven't had a chance to wax but the sun is out and you need smooth legs without ruining your waxing streak (if you know, you know!).
I am yet to try it on my sensitive areas (bikini and underarm) and I don't think I will, I will always prefer to wax those.
I really enjoyed the appliance as a body brush because the vibration is really powerful. Some may find it a little harsh but growing up using an African body sponge makes you immune to such sensitivities lol.
Product overall score: 3/5 - As far as an epilator goes, the Braun Silk-épil 9 SkinSpa 9-961V is effective and I would recommend it but between the noise and the pain, it's not my go to.
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