Hair removal can be a hassle, especially for those of us on the hairier side who have to get rid of unpleasant body hair every couple of days. Luckily, there are plenty of options out there for hair removal in today’s age. From shaving to laser hair removal procedures, and everything in between, we are spoilt for choice when it comes to hair removal.
Of the myriad of hair removal options available, epilating is considered to be one of the best, for a number of reasons. Compared to shaving, threading, and plucking, epilating leaves you with smoother and softer skin. At the same time, hair re-growth is thought to be slower among people who epilate, compared to people who opt for alternative hair removal options.
If you’re considering trying out epilating, or if you already do it and are looking for a new epilator, you’re in luck, because there are tons of great epilators out there. But if we had to pick favorites, our vote would go to Panasonic’s epilators, namely the Panasonic ES-ED90-P model. Read on to find out what makes this particular epilator one of the best in the market.
The Panasonic Epilator ES-ED90-P
The Panasonic ES-ED90-P is a 6-in-1, wireless, wet/dry epilator. This means that it can be used on both wet and dry skin. It also comes with 6 additional components, including different caps for different body parts, a shaving head, a pedicure head, and a cleaning brush. These components make the epilator a highly multi-functional device.
The epilator has 48 tweezers which allow it to remove hair both quickly and efficiently, right from the root. However, it doesn’t pull the skin while pulling the hair, which is why many customer reviews on the product rave about its relative painlessness during use. It’s also one of the quieter epilators.
The device itself is made of plastic. It’s also pretty light and easy to use, with self-explanatory controls and instructions for use. Size-wise, the epilator is quite small and travel-friendly. In fact, it even comes with a storage pouch for traveling purposes. But don’t let its size fool you—it’s quite a powerful product.
Additionally, the epilator comes with a 2-year warranty, along with a 30-day customer satisfaction guarantee.
Features
Compared to earlier Panasonic epilator models, the ES-ED90-P has added features, namely the pedicure head, the built-in light, and its dual-speed option (‘normal’ vs. ‘soft’). Below is a list of all its features:
- Wet or dry use: You can use this epilator both in the shower and on dry skin.
- Pivoting head: The standard epilator head pivots 60 degrees, making it easier to use on the contours of the body
- Wide dual disc and gentle epilating heads: The device has 2 main epilating heads. The main head is wide, with 48 tweezers. The gentle epilating head is designed for more sensitive areas of skin, such as the underarms or the bikini line. This head has 18 tweezers.
- Dual speed: It comes with two speeds, normal and soft. Normal is the faster option, allowing for quick and efficient epilation. The soft option is slower but reduces irritation.
- Built-in LED light: This turns on when the device is on and serves to throw light on the body part being epilated. This helps draw out small, unnoticeable hairs.
Additional Features
Apart from these features, designed for epilation, the Panasonic ES-ED90-P also comes with additional features (listed below), making it a multi-functional device:
- Shaving head: The device comes with a traditional shaving head, for areas that you may want to shave instead of epilating. The shaving head comes with an additional attachable trimmer, which is great if you want to trim your hair to a preferred length.
- Pedicure head: The pedicure head is another added feature that can be used for foot-care purposes. It includes a rotating pumice stone for removing dead skin.
- Cleaning brush: The cleaning brush makes the cleanup after use pretty easy, but the device as a whole is easy to clean since most of the features and attachments can be cleaned with water.
- Travel pouch: The added travel pouch makes the device easy to travel with, so you don’t have to worry about having hairy legs on your next big trip.
Obviously, there’s much to love about this product. And we haven’t even gotten to the best part of it yet, the design! The epilator comes in an alluring hot pink-gradient color, which is pretty hard not to love.
Who’s It For?
The Panasonic ES-ED90-P epilator is made for women, which you can probably tell by its hot pink color. It’s especially recommended for women with sensitive and dry skin since the tweezers don’t pull at the skin while pulling the hair out. In addition, the epilator blades are hypo-allergenic, which is ideal for those of us with sensitive skin.
For this reason, the product is also recommended for women who live in cold and dry climates, because these climates can contribute to irritable and sensitive skin.
The epilator is also great for people who deal with thick and fast hair growth.
In general, epilation is considered to result in thinner hair regrowth, compared to alternative hair removal methods, such as shaving. But the ES-ED90-P is especially efficient in this attribute.
The ES-ED90-P rests on the pricier side of epilators. However, if you consider its variety of features, coupled with the high-quality results it delivers, it’s definitely worth it.
If you’re considering purchasing this product, our list of pros and cons may help you make your decision:
PROS
- Alluring design. While this may not be the defining characteristic of an epilator’s performance, it doesn’t hurt that this particular model is pretty (pink), as well as easy to hold, store, and use.
- 60-degree pivoting head. This feature makes epilating less painful and overall much easier.
- Size: Its small size makes it perfect for those on-the-go days, as well as for traveling.
- The relative painlessness. Tons of women who have used this product claim that it’s much less painful than others, making it a popular favorite.
- Easy to use. Despite its myriad of different features and attachments, this epilator is super easy to use, which we love. It can be used on the legs, bikini line, arms, and underarms. Basically everybody part apart from the face.
- Noise level. Compared to other epilators, the ES-ED90-P is almost noiseless at 67 decibels, which means you can epilate in peace without the annoying, machine-like sound most epilators make.
- Different heads and features. When you think about it, this product is more than an epilator. It’s also a shaver and a foot filer and can be used on both dry/wet skin, and at different speeds.
CONS
- Price. Compared to other epilators, ES-ED90-P is more expensive. But, as mentioned, the price seems worth it when you consider all the added features the product comes with.
- Short battery life. A full charge of this device will last you approximately half an hour, which may not be enough time to remove the hair from multiple body parts. Another downside is that the product can’t be used while it’s charging
What’s Inside The Box?
So, this product comes with a bunch of different features and add-ons. If you decide to buy this epilator, here’s what you’ll find in your package:
- The epilator (ES-ED90-P)
- Epilation head (1) for use on arms and legs
- Epilation head (2) for use on underarms and bikini line
- Soft cap
- Fast cap
- Shaver head (including trimmer)
- Pedicure head
- Travel pouch
- Cleaning brush
- 2-year guarantee (including a 30-day customer satisfaction guarantee)
- Instruction manual
Comparing The ES-ED90-P To Other Panasonic Epilators
How does the ES-ED90-P fare compare to other epilators made by Panasonic?
Panasonic manufactures a range of different epilators, each of which is unique in its specific features and made to address specific needs. Below is a summary of some of Panasonic’s most popular epilators and how they differ from the ES-ED90-P.
Panasonic ES-ED70 5-in-1 Epilator
This model is quite similar to the ES-ED90-P, with only a difference in color and additional features. While the ES-ED90-P has 6 additional features, the ES-ED70 is a 5-in-1 epilator, offering the same features as the ES-ED90-P except for the latter’s extra pedicure head. In addition, while the ES-ED90-P is hot pink in color, the ES-ED70 comes in a charming teal/turquoise gradient.
Comparing the two models’ performance, both devices seem pretty alike, offering the same results. However, for those of us that like to spoil ourselves to a little foot TLC now and then, the ES-ED90-P is the option to go for.
Panasonic ES-EL9A-S 7-in-1 Epilator
The ES-EL9A-S is one of Panasonic’s newer epilating models, which is why it’s loaded with all sorts of features, making it another one of Panasonic’s most popular epilators. This model is a 7-in-1 epilator: it comes with 2 additional attachments that are not featured in the ES-ED90-P. These include a sensitive skin epilator cap, as well as a sonic scrub brush that exfoliates the skin.
In addition, unlike the ES-ED90-P’s epilator head with 48 tweezers, this model’s epilator head comes with 60 rotating, hypo-allergenic tweezers, making it highly efficient in removing hair. It also has 3-speed settings (1 more than the ES-ED90-P), and its epilator head pivots to 90 degrees (30 degrees more than the ES-ED90-P).
Compared to the ES-ED90-P’s battery, the ES-EL9A-S also has a better battery life, as it doesn’t require constant recharging.
Overall, the ES-EL9A-S offers everything the ES-ED90-P does and more. However, this doesn’t necessarily make it a better epilator. It should be noted that this model’s price range is between $130 and $195. So if you thought the ES-ED90-P was pricey, this model is even more so.
Panasonic ES-WH90 IPL With Facial Glow Enhancer*
The ES-WH90 is an IPL device that is meant for both the face and body, unlike the ES-ED90-P which is not made to remove facial hair. This model has 5 different levels of intensity, each made to address different body parts. It also comes with a separate attachment specifically for the face.
*It should be noted that this model is not an epilator but an IPL device. Because this model is an IPL, it doesn’t directly contact the skin, and therefore results are not instant. However, it is placed in the epilators category by Panasonic.
Review Summary
In conclusion, the Panasonic ES-ED90-P epilator’s popularity is not without good reason. As a whole, the product is practical, versatile, easy to use, and relatively painless. The pros of this product easily outweigh the cons, especially since the high price is justifiable by the epilator’s range of extra features. This epilator should be thought of as an investment.
Compared to other epilators made by Panasonic, the ES-ED90-P stands out as one of the best models. Out of 5 stars, we’d give it a 4.5, with only room for improvement regarding its short battery life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Panasonic ES-ED90-P Epilator
- Is the ES-ED90-P easy to use?
Yes. Despite the various snap-on attachments and features, the device is super easy to use. In addition, the kit comes with an instruction manual that offers detailed instructions on how to use, clean, and store the device.
- Can you use this epilator on the face?
No. The ES-ED90-P model is made for all body parts except for the face. Panasonic advises against using this epilator on the face. For facial hair removal, Panasonic’s ES-WH90 IPL is highly recommended.
- Can I use this epilator if I have sensitive skin?
No. The ES-ED90-P model is made for all body parts except for the face. Panasonic advises against using this epilator on the face. For facial hair removal, Panasonic’s ES-WH90 IPL is highly recommended.
- Can I use this epilator if I have sensitive skin?
Absolutely. The ES-ED90-P is particularly recommended for people with sensitive skin. It has hypo-allergenic epilator blades which are ideal for people with sensitive skin. In addition, the tweezers are designed to pull the hair out of the skin without pulling at the skin, which would otherwise cause pain or discomfort, especially to people with sensitive skin.
- Is it better to use this epilator on dry or wet skin?
This depends on your own preference. Epilating on wet skin i.e. in the shower can be easier in terms of cleaning up afterward and is usually a little less painful than epilating on dry skin, especially if you apply soap or shower gel on the skin before epilation.
However, epilating on dry skin is considered to achieve better results, because wet epilation can be slippery and prone to mistakes. It may also be harder to notice smaller hairs during wet epilation.
- How do I clean the epilator after using it?
Cleaning the epilator is a fairly easy process. If you’ve epilated on dry skin, you can start by detaching the epilator head and cap from the device. Then use the cleaning brush provided in the kit to brush out the hairs.
If you’ve epilated on wet skin, first rinse the device. You can then apply soap to the disc and switch the epilator on. This way the rotating motion will cause the soap to foam and clean the epilator. After finishing, rinse out the soap thoroughly and dry the epilator.
- How long does the battery last?
A full charge will last you around 30 to 40 minutes. The battery itself will last up to 3 years with normal use (weekly recharging).
Frequently Asked Questions About Epilation
- How does epilation work?
Epilation involves pulling out hair from the skin using an electrical device known as an epilator. Epilators have rotating tweezers (battery-charged) which serve to remove hair from its roots, unlike razors that use blades to slice the hair off the surface of the skin. To remove the hair, place the epilator over the skin and move it across your body, in the direction of the hair growth.
- Is epilating painful?
Unlike shaving, epilation is not completely painless. Because it involves pulling out the hair from its roots, it can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful, especially if it’s your first time. However, women who have been epilating for years claim that they get used to the feeling and get better at the technique, and over time, epilating can be close to painless. So the more frequently you epilate, the less pain you will feel.
There are differing opinions on whether waxing is more painful than epilating or vice versa. Some claim that epilating is more painful, while others swear that waxing causes more pain. However, unlike waxing, epilating become less painful over time.
If you have a low threshold for pain, or if it’s your first time epilating, it’s recommended to start out with epilating on wet skin. The lubrication from the water (and soap if you decide to use some) makes it easier to glide the epilator over your skin and can ease some of the discomforts.
It’s also recommended to exfoliate your skin before and after epilating, as this removes dead skin cells as well as ingrown hairs, and can make the epilating process easier and less painful. Alternatively, you can invest in a numbing cream to reduce the pain.
- How often should I epilate?
This depends on how fast your hair grows back and varies from person to person. On average, results from epilation can last up to 4 weeks. Compared to shaving and using hair-removal creams, results last much longer. This is because, with epilation, hair is pulled out from its root, which makes it take longer to grow back.
Most women epilate between once every 2 weeks and once every 4 weeks. The good thing with epilating is that you can do it to remove even small, unnoticeable hairs. In fact, some women shave before epilating, as shaving can help exfoliate the skin and reduces the quantity of hair to be removed by epilating.
- Why choose epilating over other hair removal methods?
Epilating leaves your skin with smooth skin that can last up to 4 weeks. While it may be painful when compared to other hair removal methods such as shaving and creams, you won’t have to deal with removing your hair every couple of days.
Compared to waxing, epilating is more convenient, as all you need to epilate is an epilator. Waxing can be quite messy and impractical on the other hand, given the hot wax involved. Moreover, waxing short hairs may not deliver great results, as the sticky wax may stick the hair to skin, making it harder to remove.
In addition, epilation is considered to help hair regrowth look less noticeable. This is because the hairs are removed from their roots, which makes them grow back softer and finer.
- Does epilating really cause hair to grow back thinner?
Yes! Research has found that epilated hair tends to grow back slower, thinner, softer, and lighter, making it easy to epilate again.
- Can I use an epilator on my face?
Yes, you can. You can use an epilator to remove hair from any part of your body. However, it’s advisable to do your research when it comes to buying an epilator, as some epilators may be designed for certain body parts. For example, the Panasonic ES-ED90-P can be used all over the body, except for the face.
- Can you get ingrown hairs from epilating?
Unfortunately, ingrown hairs are a by-product of most, if not all, hair removal methods. In general, ingrown hairs are a result of dead skin cells blocking pores during hair growth. This makes the hair grow in the opposite direction.
The best method to reduce ingrown hair growth is by exfoliating, which is why it’s recommended to exfoliate both before and after epilation.
- Can epilating damage my skin?
No. Epilating is as safe as the other hair removal methods out there. That being said, epilating can result in temporary skin swelling, bumps and/or redness, and ingrown hairs. To reduce these side-effects, don’t forget to exfoliate and moisturize your skin.