Abstract: The invention is directed to a rotary cylinder (7) for an epilating appliance comprising several pairs of clamping members (8) arranged in an angularly offset relation to each other, and actuating members (22) serving to move the clamping members (8) in pairs into, and subsequently out of, relative clamping engagement in the area of a plucking zone of the epilating appliance. Further, at least one control member is provided for controlling the actuating members (22). According to the invention, each pair of clamping members (8) has associated to it a separate, individually movable actuating member (22).