Epilator Vs Waxing, now that is a tough one. The process is the same, but the method applied is quite different. So, what is the difference between the two, and how should you be able to make the right choice? Let us take a look at the timeline of hair removal methods before we understand how the differences between each of them arose:
Feminine beautification has been a significant aspect of various cultures across time. Many records show that hair removal has been a ‘thing’ since ancient times. A certain degree of hairlessness was always preferred when it came to the ultimate feminine beauty. This is required for the women to take some drastic measures for the same. Some were rather mundane, while the others were quite extreme.
But did you know that hair removal was, as a matter of fact, a strategy of self-defense! Yes, the practice of hair removal was a common measure for the stone-age man, for self-protection against attacks. This was to avoid being held and grabbed by the hair by the opponent during a ‘hustle.’ It has to be noted that the early men at those times were ‘all hair. Later, during the Winter months, a clean shaved skin surface ensured protection from frostbite due to water being caught up in-between hair. This was quite lethal at the time. But the process of hair removal during primitive times was painful. The process involved using sharp-edged stones and moving them carefully along the surface of the skin to remove the hair. Other tools used were teeth, shells, and flints.
The Greeks And The Egyptians
To understand what the ancient people thought about feminine beauty, take a look at some of the Greek sculptures. These depict the women to own delicate features and smooth skin. Their bodies were the ultimate epitome of femineity, where the silk smooth ‘landscapes’ of feminine curves are at display. While masculinity was all about glorious beards, developed muscles, and long hair, women were almost angelic with a certain degree of fragility throughout their physical self.
The hair removal ritual was a vital part of beautification during the early Egyptian civilization as well. The people at the time used the earliest known method of ‘waxing’ and was done using a paste made from sugar, water, and lemon juice. Interestingly, this Egyptian technique is followed even today, with the ‘paste’ being spread all over the skin and having a Muslin cloth being covered above. The cloth was pulled with strength and ‘took the fine hair along with it. Archeological evidence also shows the use of Pumice stone for hair removal during this time. The Egyptians also regarded Pubic hair to be impure and took great measures for its removal. Interestingly, they even shaved the top of their heads as a symbol of ultimate social class and beauty. This was further popularised by the ultimate beauty icon of all time-Cleopatra.
The Indian And The Elizabethan Women
The practice of hair removal from the face was introduced by the Eastern civilizations of Indian and Iran. Records show that people from these regions introduced the methods of ‘threading.’ The technique required the use of thread over the skin strategically to remove fine hair skillfully. The Eastern civilization was quite precise about the facial hair removal methods, which included areas like chin, upper lip, and sideburns. The Persians marked the onset of adulthood in women by introducing them to the process of threading.
The Middle ages marked delicate and well-defined eyebrows in women and were promoted by Queen Elizabeth I. This time was marked by complete removal of facial hair, and receding the hairline back gives an illusion of a large forehead.
The World Wars, Women And Beauty
By the time the world entered the 18th Century, more civilized methods of hair removal were introduced. 1760 was the year when a barber by the name of Jean Jacques Perret designed and introduced the first-ever razor. While this remained an asset for the men, it took two world wars for the world to introduce the concept of ‘Lady’s razors finally.’ In the year 1915, a female razor by the name of ‘ Milady Décolleté’ was introduced. As the men were busy fighting the borders, the women were left free to explore the worlds left behind. As the men explored with explosives, the women got out of their homes and long gowns. The era introduced the idea of ‘the bold beauty’ at the full view, which was marked with the ‘Red Lip.’ But, as all resources were being channeled towards the wars, Nylon was under a shortage. This meant no more stockings for the women. Now, as the limbs were at the full view, the better looked good. This meant excellent smooth, silky hands and legs as the women made their way to work. Thus, due to the looming demands, the year 1940 saw the introduction of the first-ever electric razor for women. History finally had a painless method for hair removal.
The early ’60s and the ’70s had the introduction of hairlessness in women. The methods used were waxing and shaving. This was the time when the ‘Sexual Revolution’ was in full swing and saw women choose their methods of beauty. The beauty models at this time showed skin like no other, and this gave rise to the trends of going fashionably hairless. So, when it comes to Epilator Vs Waxing, what is the best for the women of today? Let us explore:
What is an Epilator?
An Epilator is a device that utilizes the mechanism of rotating tweezers to remove hair. This electric device comprises rows of tweezers set upon rotating wheels. This removed hairs from the surface of the skin as it moved across. The process was simple where the hair was caught by the tweezers and pulled out from the roots. The over-skin number of tweezers can range from 20-100.
Advantages
- Is a painless method of hair removal.
- Is an almost instant method.
- Does not require professional help.
- Reduces regrowth eventually.
- The results are long term.
Disadvantages
- Causes redness at times.
- Can cause in growths.
- Is expensive initially.
- Requires charging.
What is Waxing?
Waxing is perhaps one of the oldest methods of hair removal. It involves the uniform application of ‘liquid wax’ over the skin surface. This is followed by pressing on a strip of soft strips of cloth or special paper that is pull-off. Thus, the fine hair is removed in the process.
Advantages
- Is a safe method of hair removal.
- Waxing is an ‘organic’ method that is done using natural ingredients.
- Is a semi-temporary method of hair removal.
- Can be done on all skin type.
Disadvantages
- Requires professional skills.
- Can be expensive depending upon the location you are getting your services done from.
- Is time taking.
- Causes wastage.
- Is painful.
Difference between Epilator and Waxing
What is the better epilator and Waxing? What is the difference between an epilator and Waxing? Let us find out:
EPILATOR | WAXING |
The effects are not as long-lasting as waxing | The effects are almost semi-temporary |
Epilation can be done on very small hair | Requires complete hair growth before waxing can be done |
Requires only initial investment | The expenses are almost constant, with service charges, waxes, wax strips that add up |
Is relatively painless | Is painful |
The process is comparatively instant and quick | The process is time taking depending upon the area of activity |
Does not requires any professional intervention | Requires professional skills |
Is convenient and travel friendly | Is not convenient or travel friendly |
Does not work on the elasticity of the skin | Causes the skin to go loose after a while |
Can be done wet or dry | Can only be done when the surface is completely dry |
The Conclusion
So, when it comes to Epilator vs Waxing, what is it going to be? Let us find out:
On A Budget, On The Run : Got an event to attend in the evening and no time to go to a salon? Well, grab an Epilator and get shaving instantly. You can also keep an Epilator handy and can travel along where ever needed. This way, you can get smooth skin in no time where ever you are. Aside from the initial expenses of buying the device, Epilators are economical. These can be done both wet and dry. You can get into your ‘little black dress’ in o time, as Epilators give instant results. Time? Why waste on hair removal when you’d rather dance-away?
When Time And Money Are No-Limits: You got the time and the money, then go for a luxurious session of waxing. Some experts also believe that the application of good quality wax on the skin can be nourishing for the skin. So, if you have a long weekend of indulgence ahead, grab a glass of Martini, some music, a couple of friends, and get a ‘salon party’ in full swing. An excellent detailed waxing session will leave you with smooth skin to show off the following day. Money? Well, surely you do have a lot.