★ Great choiceBraun Silk-épil 9 Flex
- Flexible head for curves
- Wet and dry cordless use
- Catches very short hair
- Epilating still hurts at first
Look for: Braun Silk-épil 9 Flex 9-030. We earn a commission from these links.
Yes — if you want a proper epilator.
This is the one to buy if you want hair removed now, not gradually reduced over months. The flexible head helps on knees, ankles and underarms, and wet use makes the first few sessions easier.
★ Great choiceLook for: Braun Silk-épil 9 Flex 9-030. We earn a commission from these links.
The first sessions are the most uncomfortable.
You need to exfoliate and clean the head to reduce ingrown hairs.
The 9 Flex is Braun's most convincing classic epilator because the head bends around awkward areas and the wet-and-dry design makes regular use easier. It is expensive for an epilator, so beginners on a budget should look at the Philips.

Long-term hair reduction if your skin and hair tone are suitable for IPL.
We compared independent expert reviews with the manufacturer's specifications, then checked it's sold at a major retailer where you live. We don't test products ourselves.
Sources: Good Housekeeping, ELLE, Which?, Philips Lumea 9900, Braun Pro 5, manufacturer specifications.