hi nat,
i asked my relative, who is an esthetician and spa owner.
she said to be careful with epilators because they don't remove the hair in the direction of growth [like a professional wax job]. the result can be bad, where the hair is ripped from the follicle in such a way as to damage it. causing red bumps, pain and even tiny bruises surrounding the hair where the tissue has been harmed.
also, she said cleaning the coils of the epilator so they are free from bacteria is an issue because the next time the equipment is used, it can transfer bacteria into the follicles causing more trouble.
she said you should look into the stripless wax, which may be easier to manage at home. or try the pre-waxed strips which are much less messy.
http://www.sallyhansen.com/product.cfm?product=147
she also mentioned threading, which will remove the hair at the root for long lasting smoothness. check indian and middle eastern beauty salons for this service. some people master this and can do it at home.
hope this helps