The Braun Silk-epil is a motorized hair-removal device that works by plucking hair out directly from the root. The head of the machine consists of 40 tiny tweezers that grip the hair and remove it from the follicle. The head pivots on its axis to allow for use on curvy areas like the knees and other hard-to-reach places. Braun Silk-epil epilators can be used on the legs, arms, underarms, bikini area and face. It should not be used on the head or eyelashes.

Before you begin using the Braun Silk-epil epilator, make sure your skin is completely dry. No sweat, water, lotions, oil or creams should be present. Wash skin with water and soap, and dry thoroughly. To make sure skin is completely free of moisture, rub a dime-size amount of baby powder on the area where you plan on using the Silk-epil. Braun has recently introduced the Silk-epil Wet & Dry epilator, which can be used in the shower or bath on wet skin. This is the only version of the epilator that can be used on wet skin.

Put on the efficiency cap or beginner's cap onto the head of the epilator. Do not use the epilator without the cap. Adjust speed settings, which are usually 1 (low) or 2 (high). Some epilators may have speeds that go up to 3. Use your free hand to hold your skin taut. Turn on the epilator and press it onto your skin, guiding it against the direction of hair growth. Go over the same area twice to make sure all of the hair has been removed before moving to other areas. Always use the Silk-epil against the direction of hair growth as guiding it in different directions can cause hair to grow back erratically.

For beginners, the epilation procedure may be rather painful at first. It will take a few uses for the skin to become used to the sensation. Use the beginner's cap to decrease the amount of hair removed from the skin; this will also make the process less painful. After use, apply a moisturizing cream or body lotion to the area to combat redness and soothe skin. Exfoliate skin at least once a week to remove dead skin cells. This will help to reduce the possibility of developing ingrown hairs that may become infected. Consult your doctor before using Braun Silk-epil if you have skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, varicose veins and inflamed lesions or open wounds, or if you have immunodeficient skin stemming from diseases like HIV/AIDS, candida, haemophilia or Raynaud's disease. The epilator is best used on hair that is between 2 and 5 mm in length. Hair that is longer than 5 mm should be trimmed or shaved. Clean the epilator before and after use. You can do this by using the tiny brush that comes with the Braun Silk-epil to sweep away stray hairs stuck in between the tweezers. Once a week, wipe down the machine with a damp wash cloth. For health and general hygiene reasons, the epilator should not be shared with others.