To see all guides in this series, click here:  Epila Laser Hair Remover

Here are some of the physical characteristics and technical specifications of the Epila Laser Hair Remover model SI-808.

My own observations:

• Length:  6.5 inches
• Width:  2 inches
• Thickness at bottom end:  1 inch
• Thickness at top (laser) end:  1.5 inches

The unit is of similar shape and size to an older model cordless phone.  I don't know the weight, but it is lighter than my own recent model Uniden cordless phone.  Most of the eBay sellers of this item include photos, depicting the exact unit that I own.

On the underside of the unit is a power button and a function button.  The function button, when pressed, switches the unit between low, "middle" (medium) and high power.  I usually use the unit on high, because I don't feel the "snap" when I use it on low or medium.  However, since my eyebrow area has proven to be sensitive, I will try lowering the power when using the unit in this area.

At the laser end, there is a "touch bar" which is a small protrusion that touches the skin, keeping the laser diode the correct distance from the skin.

• Length of touch bar:  .375 inches

Technical specifications as listed in the manual:

• Item:  EPILA LASER HAIR REMOVER SYSTEM
• Wavelength:  808nm
• Material:  ABS & etc.
• Size:  170 x 50 x 40 mm
• Operating Voltage:  110/220V 60Hz
• Power Supply:  DC 9V 1200mA Adopter [sic] (should read "Adapter")

The detachable power cord has a European plug, but a North American adapter was included with my unit.  If you are planning to buy an Epila Laser, check the ad or contact the seller to be certain your unit will include any required adapters to function properly where you live.

I looked up ABS and found the following definition:

Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, or ABS, (chemical formula (C8H8· C4H6·C3H3N)x) is a common thermoplastic used to make light, rigid, molded products such as pipes, golf club heads (used for its good shock absorbance), automotive body parts, enclosures, protective head gear, and toys including LEGO bricks.

Comments on use:

The button which turns on the laser is on the side of the unit.  When the Epila is held in the right hand, one presses the button with the index finger.  When it is held in the left hand, one would press the button with the thumb.  The button requires very little pressure to active.  Because the unit is so lightweight and only 2 inches wide, it is easy to operate without fatiguing the hand.  I have fairly small hands (I wear a size small or medium glove, depending on manufacturer) and I can hold the unit loosely and press the button easily.  The looseness of my grip suggests to me that someone with considerably smaller hands would be able to operate the unit just as easily.  My husband, who has long, slim fingers, also operates the Epila Laser easily and comfortably.

There is a bright blue light on the back of the unit and a red light next to the power button, both of which indicate that the power is on.  A green light indicates which power setting is selected.  The colour of the laser is red and the beam is very small, nearly pin-point sized.  When the button is pressed, the unit beeps as the beam turns on.  The unit beeps two more times and the beam shuts off on the third beep.  The length of time between the beeps is approximately one second on high setting.  The time between beeps is longer on medium setting and longer still on low setting.

Although it is not mentioned in the manual, I have surmised that one treatment of one hair should include all three beeps.  Aim at a hair follicle, press the button, hold the unit still until all three beeps sound and the beam shuts off.  I have found that I can treat a single hair two or three times in a session with no irritation to my skin.  However, the manual does mention that a single hair should not be treated multiple times in succession.  Treat all of the hair in an area once, then work your way through the area, treating each hair again from the beginning.

The manual recommends using ice or a cool, damp cloth to cool the skin before and after using the laser.  I keep both handy in case of discomfort, but I rarely use either.  I experience itchiness more than pain after treatment, so I apply clear aloe gel to sooth the irritation.  The Epila manual and professional laser technicians recommend limiting exposure to sun after treatment.

I hope readers find that this information answers some of the "how the heck does it work?" type questions.  Please stay tuned for more results guides.  Happy zapping!