Epilate Legs: Routine, DIY Peels & Tips

Smooth legs without daily shaving stress – once you’ve started waxing, you usually never want to go back. While shaving only removes the visible hair stubble, waxing pulls the hair out directly from the root. The result: up to four weeks of silky smooth skin, no annoying stubble the next morning, and long-term finer regrowth. Especially for models who are called in for last-minute photo shoots or need to prepare for runway and catwalk appearances, a waxing device is an indispensable tool. In this guide, you’ll learn everything about the correct technique, DIY peels, pain management, and the optimal routine – so you can professionally and sustainably care for your legs.

Overview hide

Why waxing is better than shaving

The Perfect Epilation Routine Step by Step

DIY Scrubs for Even Smoother Legs

Pain Management and Insider Tips

Prevent and treat ingrown hairs

Common Questions About Epilation

Why waxing is better than shaving

The biggest advantage of epilation lies in its long-term effect. The small rotating tweezers of the epilator grip the hair directly at the root and pull it out completely – including the hair root and follicle. That means: the hair has to grow back completely before it becomes visible again. With regular use, the hair becomes finer, sparser, and regrowth slows down noticeably over time.

For everyone wondering what requirements becoming a model entails, well-groomed, smooth skin is one of the absolute basics. Agencies and casting directors pay attention to details – unwanted body hair can be distracting in photos. Those who epilate regularly have this factor permanently under control.

Epilator vs. Waxing vs. Shaving – A Comparison

Method	How long does it last?	Costs (long-term)	Pain level	Suitable for
Epilation	3–4 weeks	Low (one-time device)	Moderate	Legs, armpits, bikini area
Waxing	3–4 weeks	Moderate–high	High	Large areas
Shaving	1–3 days	Moderate (blades)	None	Quick solution
Laser	Permanent	Very high	Moderate	Permanent solution

Choosing the right device

Not all epilators are the same. For beginners, a wet epilator that can be used in the shower is recommended. The warm water opens the pores and makes epilation significantly more pleasant. Advanced users often opt for high-speed devices with 40+ tweezers for faster, more even results. Also pay attention to interchangeable attachments: sensitive areas such as the knees or the ankle region require a gentler attachment than the thighs.

The Perfect Epilation Routine Step by Step

Those who approach it systematically achieve much better results and significantly reduce the pain sensation. The following routine has proven effective in practice – whether for everyday use or as preparation for a casting at CM Models.

Preparation: Preparing the Skin Properly

The quality of the result depends entirely on the preparation. At least 24 hours before epilation, you should not use waxing or other hair removal methods. The hair must be at least 3–4 mm long so that the device’s tweezers can grip securely. Too short hair will break instead of being pulled out – this significantly increases the risk of ingrown hairs.

Hair length: at least 3–4 mm
No waxing or shaving 24 hours prior
Shower or bathe with lukewarm water
Open pores with heat
Completely dry the skin
No body lotion before epilation

The epilation technique: How to do it right

Hold the epilator at a 90-degree angle to the skin – this is the most common mistake beginners make. Move the device slowly and evenly against the direction of hair growth. With your free hand, you can gently stretch the skin, especially at the knees and ankles. The skin is looser there and the device grips less effectively.

Start at less sensitive areas such as the lower legs and work your way up to the more sensitive inner thighs. This helps your body get used to the sensation. Many models preparing for a casting epilate in the evening before going to bed – this gives the skin time to calm down overnight.

Aftercare: The Often Overlooked Final Step

Immediately after epilation, avoid using scented products. The pores are open and the skin is slightly irritated. Instead, use a soothing aloe vera gel or a fragrance-free after-sun lotion. Also avoid direct sunlight, hot baths, and exercise in the first two to three hours after the treatment – this minimizes redness and skin irritation.

“The most common question at a casting is not which cream I use – but how I manage to keep my skin looking so smooth all the time. My secret: consistent epilation combined with a good sugar scrub two days beforehand. It’s not magic, but most people don’t do it.”

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DIY Scrubs for Even Smoother Legs

A good exfoliation is the best preparation for waxing and the most important aftercare. It removes dead skin cells, frees ingrown hairs, and ensures that new hairs can easily reach the surface. Anyone who wants to show their best side during a casting portfolio should not skip regular exfoliations.

Make your own sugar oil exfoliation

The simplest and most effective DIY exfoliation consists of brown sugar and a high-quality carrier oil. Brown sugar has finer granules than white sugar and is therefore gentler on the skin. Coconut oil, almond oil, or olive oil are all excellent choices – all three are rich in fatty acids and intensely nourish the skin.

2 tbsp brown sugar
1 tbsp coconut or almond oil
Optional: 5 drops of lavender oil
Optional: 1 tsp honey for extra moisture
Massage in circular motions, 2–3 min.
Rinse with lukewarm water, do not rub

Coffee grounds exfoliation against cellulite

Coffee grounds are a real secret – not only as a scrub, but also as a temporary anti-cellulite treatment. The caffeine stimulates blood circulation and optically smooths the skin. Mix fresh or dried coffee grounds with a bit of coconut oil to create a coarse paste and massage it into the skin in circular motions. This treatment shows quick results especially on thighs and the buttocks.

Anyone who is or wants to be a curvy model knows: Smooth, well-groomed skin is a must, regardless of body shape and clothing size. Even models in larger sizes must pay attention to flawless skin during photoshoots.

Pain Management and Insider Tips

Waxing hurts at first – this cannot be completely avoided. But with the right tricks, it becomes much more pleasant. For everyone who is just starting out or preparing for the first steps as a model, here are the most important pain management strategies.

Tips for sensitive skin

Wet epilation under the shower or in the bathtub is proven to be less painful than dry epilation. The warm water relaxes the muscles and opens the pores, making it easier to pull out the hair. Alternatively, you can cover your skin with a warm, damp towel before epilation and let it work for five minutes.

Another pro tip: epilate in time with your breathing. Pain perception is measurably lower when exhaling than when inhaling. Sounds simple, but it makes a noticeable difference. Also: the more regularly you epilate, the fewer hairs regrow at the same time – and the less painful each session becomes.

Wet epilation is less painful
Epilate while exhaling
Warm up the skin before treatment
Tighten the skin with your free hand
Regular epilation reduces pain
Epilate in the evening for overnight recovery

Who works as a model professionally – whether with a model agency in Berlin, a model agency in Hamburg or as a model in London – for them a reliable depilation routine is simply indispensable. Short-term bookings leave no time for spontaneous shaving compromises.

Prevent and treat ingrown hairs

The biggest problem with depilation is ingrown hairs. They occur when the newly growing hair cannot penetrate the skin and instead rolls under the surface. The result: red dots, sometimes even small inflammations. With the right skincare routine, this can be effectively prevented.

The most important protective measure is regular exfoliation – at least once a week. In addition, products with salicylic acid or fruit acid help to chemically dissolve dead skin cells. Good moisturizing is also important: dry skin is much more prone to ingrown hairs than well-cared-for, moisturized skin.

Ingrown hairs should never be pulled out with your fingernails. Instead, use a sterile needle or pointed tweezers to carefully lift the hair – then it can be easily removed during the next epilation session. Anyone preparing for major international events like the Big 4 Fashion Weeks or specifically the New York Fashion Week should treat ingrown hairs as a real no-go.

Common Questions About Epilation

How often should I epilate my legs?

Ideally, you should epilate every three to four weeks. If you have very heavy hair growth, a shorter interval of two to three weeks may be appropriate. It’s important that the hairs are at least 3–4 mm long – otherwise, the tweezers won’t grip reliably and the result will be uneven.

Can I epilate sensitive areas like the inner knees?

Yes, but with the right attachment and special care. Many epilators come with specific sensitive attachments designed for delicate areas. Straighten the leg completely and stretch the skin with your free hand so the device can work evenly. Wet epilation is especially recommended here.

Why do some hairs not grow back after epilation?

With regular use over several months, the hair follicles are weakened by the repeated pulling. The result: thinner hairs, slower growth, and even permanently reduced hair growth in some areas. This effect does not occur equally strongly in every person, but is clearly noticeable with consistent routine.

Is epilation also suitable for aspiring models?

Definitely. Especially those who meet the measurements and requirements for being a model and want to apply to a reputable model agency should establish a reliable skincare routine. Depilation is more cost-effective in the long run than regular waxing appointments at the studio and can be easily integrated into daily life – ideal for everyone who models part-time or is just starting out in the industry. Also find out what you should know about model agency fees before you sign up – and preferably start with a model agency without fees. If you’re ready, then apply now and start your career.