A couple days ago, I decided I would finally go buy an epilator. I had been thinking about it for a while. Shaving doesn’t tend to agree with most of my parts and waxing is just not in my budget at present. I’ve heard good things about them so I figured, why not?

I picked mine up at Sally Beauty Supply. It’s an emjoi Epi Silk and cost me about $40. I can be used with or without the included cord. I found that I had better luck with it plugged in. Perhaps I didn’t charge it long enough. It definitely seemed to have more power and speed when I had it plugged in.

It comes with the device, instructions, cleaning brush, cord, and a soft drawstring bag to keep it all in.

Good things: It actually does work! I found that I have more hairs than I ever imagined, as it did the job of yanking the little suckers out. My skin is not as irritated afterward as it is after I shave. No raised pus-filled (yum!) pimply looking bumps so far, which is my problem after shaving (bleah!) It is easy to use. It doesn’t seem to be dangerous so far. It is small and portable. It is rechargeable and can be used cordless.

Bad things: Sweet baby Jesus is it unpleasant. When it comes down to it, you are yanking out all of your hairs by the root. It also takes a while. It’s not the fastest process. I think it might be best to split it up over a few days actually. Did I mention that it hurts? Like in an OH MY GOD WHY AM I DOING THIS?? kind of way. It doesn’t seem to have as much power when used without the cord. It’s a little loud.

Summary: Go for it if you can handle the pain and hate shaving. It’s worth a try.

I just went looking at the emjoi website and I think I want this: It’s a fancier, more expensive version! I would totally consider this if it worked as well as it is supposed to. They do have a 30 day, money back guarantee. But I don’t know if that’s a “new-in-package, never bothered to use it” kind of  guarantee, or an “I’ve used this product and I really hate it. Please give me my money back” kind of guarantee.