After a protracted winter, indulging in self-care can be a welcome respite. The prospect of greeting summer with smooth legs, exfoliated skin, and well-maintained feet is certainly appealing. The Panasonic ES-EL9A Epilator appears to address comprehensive body care, offering a versatile solution designed to care for the body from head to toe. Its interchangeable attachments cater to specific needs. As a busy parent with limited personal time, I was particularly interested in the versatility of this device and immediately tested its capabilities.
Upon unboxing, the package contains the epilator unit and a selection of interchangeable heads and attachments designed for various applications:
1. Epilator head for legs and arms
2. Gentle Cap, designed for sensitive hair removal
3. Precision cap for delicate areas such as underarms and the bikini line
4. Shaving head with integrated Pop-Up trimmer
5. Bikini comb
6. Foot care head
7. Sonic cleaning brush/scrub brush
Additionally, the package includes a reasonably sized AC adapter, a small cleaning brush, and a storage bag.
The device feels lightweight and ergonomic. An integrated LED illuminates the treatment area, enhancing visibility. Head attachment changes are facilitated by a simple button press.
Regarding the device’s specifications, several features warrant attention. The ES-EL9A incorporates a flexible head that conforms to body contours. It utilizes dual epilation discs, 30% wider than previous iterations, equipped with 60 tweezers capable of removing hair as short as 0.5 mm. Three speed settings (soft, normal, fast) are available, and the device can be used on both wet and dry skin.
The result?
Following thorough testing of each head and attachment, both in and out of the shower, and on varying hair lengths, I can attest to the product’s overall efficacy. The Panasonic ES-EL9A performs as advertised, effectively removing unwanted hair with relative gentleness. While some minor skin irritation (red dots) occurred, it subsided quickly and was less pronounced than with other epilators I have used. The flexible head facilitates comfortable epilation, and the included Gentle Cap and precision cap, coupled with adjustable speed settings and wet/dry functionality, provide user control over the outcome. Comparing this epilator to two older models (Phillips Satin Ice 2 in 1 HP6455/00, now discontinued, and Braun Silk-Epil Xelle for legs and body 5280), the Panasonic surpasses both. It markedly outperforms the Braun model, while the Panasonic’s wider head and wet/dry capability give it an edge over the Phillips.
What did I like?
The device’s multifunctional design, addressing numerous needs with a single unit, is exceptionally practical. It offers comfortable and smooth operation and is easy to clean. The integrated light and quiet operation are appreciated. Its ability to epilate a large area efficiently and its wet/dry functionality are significant advantages.
The shaving head delivered a particularly close shave, leaving no discernible stubble. The foot care head also performed admirably, effectively removing calluses for smooth skin.
What did I like less?
Occasionally, the epilator struggled to grip individual hairs, necessitating multiple passes over the same area. While not a major issue, this was observed and, according to the instruction manual, should be minimized to avoid skin irritation.
The sonic cleaning brush, designed for body exfoliation, felt somewhat underpowered. Although intended to be gentle, a more robust action would be preferable for effective removal of dead skin cells. The current sensation is more akin to a light touch than a deep cleanse. However, it is important to note that it does still perform its intended function.
The device’s cordless operation is limited to thirty minutes after a one-hour charge, which feels restrictive considering its comprehensive feature set. The instruction manual could also benefit from improved clarity. A more intuitive presentation, potentially using photographs instead of diagrams, would enhance the user experience when identifying the appropriate head and attachment for each specific application.
Summary Panasonic ES-EL9A
Given my demanding lifestyle, I appreciate efficient and practical devices. This Panasonic epilator aligns with these preferences. While not inexpensive, its price is justifiable considering its capabilities. Cost is relative, but approximately 1800 SEK represents reasonable value. It could be considered an ideal gift, providing comprehensive care within a single device. Users can achieve smooth legs, maintained feet, and exfoliated skin without requiring numerous specialized tools.
The primary concern revolves around battery life, offering only thirty minutes of cordless operation per charge. Extended treatment sessions may necessitate recharging between applications. Utilizing the corded mode for tasks such as leg epilation and foot care (excluding in-shower use) mitigates this issue. Overall, the advantages outweigh the drawbacks. This epilator is recommended for individuals seeking efficient, at-home hair removal and skincare solutions in preparation for warmer weather.
