We previously reviewed the Panasonic Multishape Kit, a versatile system with broad appeal. We appreciated its adaptability and diverse functionalities. Additionally, we have tested the Panasonic Epilator ES-EL9A. Now, we present our evaluation of this year’s iteration: the Panasonic Epilator ES-EY90.
This kit also boasts a comprehensive selection of interchangeable attachments. While its primary target demographic may be women, its utility extends beyond this group. Several accessories offer practical applications for men as well, so we encourage all readers to continue exploring its features.
Understanding Epilators and the Contents of this Kit
For those unfamiliar with the term, an epilator essentially functions as a collection of motorized tweezers – in this case, 60 – that rapidly and efficiently extract hairs from the root, unlike shaving which only cuts them at the surface. This results in a significantly longer interval before hair regrowth is noticeable.
The kit includes two epilator heads: a larger one designed for broader areas such as legs and arms, and a smaller, more precise head suitable for the bikini line or underarms. Furthermore, it contains a foot file, a shaver head with a bikini comb attachment, a scrub brush, alternative epilator guards, a cleaning brush, and a travel pouch.
According to the specifications, a full charge provides approximately 30 minutes of operation. Our testing suggests it may last somewhat longer. The Panasonic Epilator ES-EY90 is compatible with the Multishape ecosystem, utilizing the same charger and incorporating a wet/dry design, enabling use in the shower or on dry skin. Similar to the Panasonic Multishape, each accessory can be disassembled and cleaned with soap and water. An integrated LED lamp illuminates the treatment area and also serves as a pressure sensor, alerting the user if excessive force is applied.
With the overview complete, we will now delve into our usage experience, where we uncover both the strengths and weaknesses of the various accessories. Some proved exceptionally useful, even in unexpected applications, while others were less compelling. We will begin with the epilator itself.
Accessory Performance
Epilator Performance
The large epilator head features a 90-degree pivoting action for enhanced reach across the body. The integrated LED provides ample illumination for clear visibility. Two distinct guard attachments are included, modulating the proximity of the epilator to the skin. Our evaluation found the guard on the left in the image to offer superior efficiency compared to the other. It enables closer contact, resulting in faster epilation. Ultimately, both guards yielded satisfactory results, leaving legs and arms feeling smooth and soft as advertised.
The smaller epilator demonstrates enhanced precision and reveals a gender-neutral application: effectively removing fine hairs on the bridge of the nose. A quick pass or two swiftly eliminates these hairs. The smaller head’s inflexible design, combined with its precision, makes it ideal for the bikini line.
Shaver Head with Bikini Comb
This accessory saw the least use during our testing, primarily due to a lack of necessity for its intended purpose. While it performed adequately during testing, we consider it the least essential component of the kit.
Foot File
Our initial concern with the foot file centered on whether its motor would be sufficiently powerful to avoid stalling, a common issue with motorized foot files. To our satisfaction, the Panasonic Epilator ES-EY90 -A maintained consistent rotation. While excessive pressure, even after the LED warning, could eventually halt the motor, such pressure approached the threshold of discomfort. The relatively small size of the foot file allows for excellent precision, further enhanced by the LED lamp. The foot file represents another gender-neutral tool within the kit.
Scrub Brush
The scrub brush is designed for gentle yet effective exfoliation of dead skin cells on the face and other areas of the body, ideally during a shower. This accessory proved to be exceptionally beneficial. We found it highly effective for polishing around the eyes, cheeks, forehead, and nose. When used with a suitable cleanser, the results were outstanding.
For our male readers, this brush offers an additional benefit: beard care, provided the beard is not excessively long. A male tester found it so effective that he expressed a desire to purchase the brush independently for this specific purpose. The brush effectively removes dead skin cells, addressing dryness and associated flaking that can occur under the beard during winter months. Consequently, the scrub brush represents an unexpectedly versatile and gender-neutral accessory.
Conclusion: Panasonic Epilator Kit (ES-EY90)
The key advantage of Panasonic’s multi-solution approach lies in the convenience of a single, waterproof device that can be easily cleaned with soap and water. Compatibility with the Multishape system further simplifies charging, requiring only one charger for both devices. One minor observation is that the epilator cannot be operated while charging. Initially, this seemed inconvenient, but the rationale quickly became apparent: using a corded electrical device in the shower presents a significant safety hazard. Furthermore, the built-in interlocks offer a degree of safety against accidental misuse, such as inadvertently applying skin cream to the brush head.
Our primary criticism centers on Panasonic’s limited implementation of a key feature of the Multishape system: the ability to purchase individual components and customize the kit according to specific needs. While several kit configurations are available, only the foot file, precision epilator, and shaver head with bikini comb are sold separately. Furthermore, the kits that include the scrub brush already contain these individual components. We would also appreciate increased battery capacity and reduced charging time to avoid interruptions during use.
Does the Panasonic Epilator Kit (ES-EY90) represent a worthwhile investment? Despite the limitations in component selection, we believe it does, even with a slightly higher price point compared to similar kits from competitors. As previously noted, the kit provides a range of versatile, and in some cases gender-neutral, accessories, making it a comprehensive solution for personal grooming.
Panasonic provided the test product for this review. The provision of materials does not influence our editorial evaluations.
