How does this compare with the original Epilady from the 80's? I've used that one for 25 years and while happy, wanted to know if this removes more thoroughly so I don't need touch-up shaving. How does this compare with the original Epilady from the 80's? I've used that one for 25 years and while happy, wanted to know if this removes more thoroughly so I don't need touch-up... » Read More How does this compare with the original Epilady from the 80's? I've used that one for 25 years and while happy, wanted to know if this removes more thoroughly so I don't need touch-up shaving. « Show Less
851777
It's much better than the older models, It seems to get more hair,and I don't have to shave as often! I love the smoothness of my legs after! jackie Fox
851778
I have actually gone back to using my old one (from the 80's) as the newer one doesn't seem to work anywhere near as well. An Epilady rep gave me some tips for use with the new one. Even though I followed instructions and gave it time....still same results. However, if my only choice was the new Epilady vs shaving or something like Nair, I'd choose the Epilady. Hope that helps.
851779
Renee,I don't actually use the Epilady, my mother-in-law does. She loves it!!! She had the original from the 80's and she also had this version for several years. I am not sure what happened to her previous one.... but she loves it!
851780
I also had used the one from the 80's and I find they are just about the same.
1629764
I know this is much later than the original post, but in case anyone else is wondering the same I thought I'd answer it. I tried both, and ended up sticking with the ES8249S. However, there is not much of a difference at all. They have the same volume when shaving, they have the same comfort level, same close shave, the cleaner unit is the same, the display on the razor is the same.... The only difference is the 4th blade. I do think because of that the 8249S is just a bit quicker to shave my whole face, but it was not much of a difference at all. They were priced the same after Christmas due to steep Amazon price cuts and a 20 dollar rebate, so I got a great deal on the 8249S, otherwise I'd be perfectly fine with the ES8109S for a cheaper price.
443597
Although I dont shave daily. The original ones seem to be as good as ever. (In other words I dont know or I didn't even know they were replaceable or that they wore out. Lol)
1670683
I used the first one of these I owned for about 4 years before I got to thinking I needed to change the blades. But life is life and I did not get around to changing the blades for another year, at which point the battery was starting to die. Even at the end with questionable blades I still got a close shave, and I have course facial hair. Also seems to be well made and should take any reasonable abuse. Can't comment on using it for shaving a head. Still got my hair.
1492607
I have primarily used the Epilady for my legs, so I can't comment on other areas. If you are accustomed to shaving, the first use will not be painless. It is similar to a waxing. But, thereafter, you mostly feel a prickly sensation, much less than plucking your eyebrows, and your hair doesn't grow back for about a month. I would choose Epilady any day over waxing or shaving. When your hair grows in, it is very fine and barely noticeable. You also don't get the itching that occurs when hair is growing in after shavng.
1476480
Yes, it does replace a razor. I use the epilator head for some areas, and I use the razor for other areas that are too sensitive to use the epilator. Also, the epilator works best with hairs that are not very long. If you are just starting to use this unit for the first time, or have not been able to use it for a while, you may want to use the razor head first, then after several days, when the hairs are just starting to grow out, try using the epilator head. I've been using this brand for a number of years now, after having gone through at least 4 other similar epilators made by other people. This is the best brand of them all, by far. Yes, it does replace a razor. I use the epilator head for some areas, and I use the razor for other areas that are too sensitive to use the epilator. Also, the epilator works best with hairs that are not very long. If you are just starting to use this unit for the first time, or have not been able to use it for a while, you may want to use the razor head first, then after several days, when the hairs are just starting to grow out, try using the epilator head. I've been using this brand for a number of years now, after having gone through at least 4 other similar epilators made by other... » Read More Yes, it does replace a razor. I use the epilator head for some areas, and I use the razor for other areas that are too sensitive to use the epilator. Also, the epilator works best with hairs that are not very long. If you are just starting to use this unit for the first time, or have not been able to use it for a while, you may want to use the razor head first, then after several days, when the hairs are just starting to grow out, try using the epilator head. I've been using this brand for a number of years now, after having gone through at least 4 other similar epilators made by other people. This is the best brand of them all, by far. « Show Less
1110131
I have both (bought the ES8103S first), and the ES8243A is by far the better shaver for me. My 60+ year old face has some tough hair growth and getting a close shave was always a dream, until the ES8143A.A shave does take me 4 to 6 minutes due to some tough under chin areas so I only get 3 to 4 shaves per charge but for me it is worth it. I get up to a year on the foil/blades before I have to replace them. Unfortunate the foil/blades are so expensive. The shaver is 4 years old and going strong.
400586
I am very happy with my Braun epil-3. I have yet to find one that does not hurt so that is part of it but the longer you use it the less it hurts. It is not the pain one can not stand. So easy. Also...I am finding less hair with each use.
514992
Norelco redesigned the shaving head and discontinued the old RQ12. I tried the new RQ12+ on the same shaver and found it better. It is a different head but fits on the previous shaver. It seems the advantage is that when you need to replace it within a year, you only replace the cutters inside and not the whole head.
1135800
I've never used the epilator head except once. It was too painful. I don't notice a significant difference in time between shaving.
105078
The first one I bought lasted 4 - 5 years being used twice a week to trim and shape my full beard. It doesn't trim as close as a razor but pretty close.
2258453
I've been blade shaving for as long as I've been shaving (I'm 68 yrs old). I tried a few electrics but I never got the close/clean feel of a blade. I also used a Mach 3 but will have to disagree with you about the inexpensive blades. That's one of the reasons that I decided to give this wet/dry a try. Being total honest I don't think it gives as close of a shave as a blade but by the same token it dosen't remove as much skin either. As far as cost, I have owned my wet/dry since Dec. 09 and I just replaced the foil and blades at a cost of 50+ dollars. It helped a little speeding up my shaving time but I think the old foil and blades could have gone a few more months. I don't think your thinking is wrong it's just that everyone's different and has their own opinion. Watever works best for you is right.
810095
It is quite a longer time than shaving your legs, however, the epilator will give you a much longer lasting shave. There is a lot more to this product and the procedures that you must take to epilate. Read your directions very carefully!!!!
986344
Yes, this is still the same as it was many years ago. I have been using this for over 20 years. Really don't remember at what age I started. But it leaves no buildup.
1950742
Don't despair S. Gunnell, whenever you change shaving methods (blade, foil or Phillips rotating cutters style) it takes three weeks or more for your skin to adapt to the different methods. I myself experienced this when I switched from my old Braun to a blade, then again when I purchased this braun. I have found this to be the best electric shaver I've ever used to the point that I'm considering buying another when they discontinue this model to eventually replace my current 8995 when it wears out!I have no experience with the Pulsonic, however. I found it curious that the replacement cutter/foil is more expensive with the 8995 than the Pulsonic.(At least in my local stores) Don't despair S. Gunnell, whenever you change shaving methods (blade, foil or Phillips rotating cutters style) it takes three weeks or more for your skin to adapt to the different methods. I myself experienced this when I switched from my old Braun to a blade, then again when I purchased this braun. I have found this to be the best electric shaver I've ever used to the point that I'm considering buying another when they discontinue this model to eventually replace my current 8995 when it wears out!I have no experience with the Pulsonic, however. I found it curious that the... » Read More Don't despair S. Gunnell, whenever you change shaving methods (blade, foil or Phillips rotating cutters style) it takes three weeks or more for your skin to adapt to the different methods. I myself experienced this when I switched from my old Braun to a blade, then again when I purchased this braun. I have found this to be the best electric shaver I've ever used to the point that I'm considering buying another when they discontinue this model to eventually replace my current 8995 when it wears out!I have no experience with the Pulsonic, however. I found it curious that the replacement cutter/foil is more expensive with the 8995 than the Pulsonic.(At least in my local stores) « Show Less
1234329
I've had this epilator for just over 2 years now and it still works great. I just clean it with the little brush that comes along with it. It's very easy. I try to clean after every use but that doesn't always happen but that's okay. I clean it with the brush then blow it out. Also, I try to use it after showers or in the morning. Just making sure you're clean whereever you plan to use it on ie armpits etc.
1538527
I have this razor as well as a Gillette Fatboy. This razor is quite a bit milder than the Fatboy, even with the Fatboy set to "1". I really enjoy my Parker, and feel its at least as good as my Fatboy. Its also a mild razor, so it'll give you the option of re-learning this method of shaving, and then purchasing a vintage when you get back into the groove. :-)