Whether you aim to get rid of unwanted facial hair or achieve a completely hair-free bikini line, there is an abundance of hair removal methods to pick from. These options differ significantly, functioning in various ways and yielding diverse outcomes (at all sorts of price ranges). Consider this as your comprehensive hair removal guide, a detailed analysis of seven of the most popular choices available, ranging from long-lasting solutions to quick fixes. Keep reading to figure out which approach suits you best, and then get ready to flaunt flawlessly smooth skin.
Shaving
How it works: A razor blade trims off the excess hair that grows above the skin's surface.
Cost: Shaving is highly affordable. You can effortlessly find a quality razor along with a shaving cream (essential for providing lubrication to enable the blade to glide smoothly and minimize the chances of cuts, irritation, and razor burn) for less than $20. Our current preferred combination: Billie The Razor ($9) and Eos Shave Cream ($4).
Where to try it: “ Shaving can be carried out on all body parts that have hair, but take extra caution when shaving the genital area,” explains Dr. Manish Shah, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Denver. Women should also be vigilant when shaving their faces, adds Dr. Michele S. Green, a board-certified dermatologist in New York City who recommends dermaplaning instead. The latter utilizes a finer blade that is more suitable for delicate facial skin (though it only removes fine hair, not coarse hair) and exfoliates by eliminating dead cells along with the hairs.
How long results last: Since you're only removing the portion of the hair that protrudes above the skin, the results will persist only until the hair starts growing again, notes Dr. Shah. This varies from person to person, but most individuals will notice at least some stubble reappearing within a few days.
Safe to DIY? Yes, very much so.
Safe for all hair colors and skin tones ? Yes, although it's worth noting that African Americans have a higher likelihood of developing ingrown hairs after shaving due to the curly nature of their facial and body hair, points out Dr. Shah.
Pros: It's straightforward for anyone to do, can be performed anywhere on the body (legs, underarms, bikini line) and it's very cost-efficient and safe for all hair colors and skin tones.
Cons: You'll have to shave quite frequently to maintain the desired level of hair-free skin.
OTC depilatory cream
How it works: This cream is applied to the skin's surface to eliminate unwanted hair, and it functions through a process known as keratinolysis. “The chemicals in the cream dissolve the keratin in the exposed hairs, which are then wiped off,” explains Dr. Shah.
Cost: It's inexpensive, typically under $10.
Where to try it: Depilatory creams can be rather potent, so it's advisable to reserve them for body hair removal on less sensitive, larger areas, such as the arms or legs. “If you're going to use one on your face, make sure to select a gentler product that has been specifically formulated for this purpose in order to minimize the possibility of irritation,” advises Dr. Green. One that fits the bill: Nair Hair Remover Face Cream ($4).
How long results last: Anywhere from one to three weeks.
Safe to DIY? Yes
Safe for all hair colors and skin tones? Yes, but be cautious if you have sensitive skin. If you want to be extra cautious, Dr. Green suggests applying the cream for less time than directed. For instance, if the total application time is 15 minutes, leave it on for just five minutes, wipe it off, then repeat this process two more times. Shorter contact periods and removing it in between can help reduce potential side effects, such as sensitivity. (You can also conduct a DIY patch test before use. Apply a small amount of the product on your inner forearm and monitor the area for any signs of skin reaction for 24 hours before using it.)
Pros: It is budget-friendly and easy to use.
Cons: While these creams are generally well-tolerated, allergic reactions and sensitivity are possible. The results aren't particularly long-lasting.
Related: The Best Ways to Remove Your Unwanted Facial Hair At Home
Waxing
How it works: Warm, melted wax is spread onto the skin; as it cools, it solidifies and traps the hair. “The wax is then swiftly pulled off, to extract the hair shaft and follicle,” explains Dr. Shah.
Cost: This varies based on your location, whether you see a professional or do it yourself, and the area you're waxing. Salon waxing can range from $10–$15 for smaller areas, like the eyebrows or upper lip, to over $250 for full body waxing, says Dr. Shah. At-home waxing products, such as kits and wax strips, can cost anywhere from $5 to $50 and above.
Where to try it: It can be done anywhere, although Dr. Shah says it's best on areas where the skin is flat, such as the arms, legs, and back, or upper lip and brows (as opposed to areas like the armpits), to ensure clean wax removal.
How long results last: Because the hair is being pulled out from the root, the results last approximately three to four weeks, says Dr. Green.
Safe to DIY? Yes, but proceed with caution. Choose a product specifically designed for the area you're waxing and read (and follow) the instructions precisely. If you opt for the DIY route, we like the Flamingo Head to Toe Wax Kit ($19), which has everything you need for waxing both your face and body.
Safe for all hair colors and skin tones ? Yes, although those with sensitive skin might be more prone to experiencing irritation.
Pros: Waxing works effectively on various areas, and there's a range of both at-home and in-salon options at all price points. The results are more long-lasting than shaving, and with continued waxing, the hair tends to grow back softer and more slowly, adds Dr. Shah.
Cons: It can be somewhat uncomfortable – especially on sensitive body parts, such as the bikini area – and there's also a chance of irritation and even burning if not done correctly, says Dr. Green.
Prescription hair removal cream
How it works: Currently, there is one brand of cream available on the market, Vaniqa. “It utilizes eflornithine hydrochloride, which targets the hair follicle to prevent hairs from entering the growth cycle,” explains Dr. Green.
Cost: The price is approximately $200, but Dr. Green notes that insurance might cover it in certain cases.
Where to try it: If you're seeking the best hair removal for the face, this could be it; these are intended for use on the face only.
How long results last: Vaniqa won't remove the hair but it will slow down its growth, causing the hairs to become lighter and finer over time, says Dr. Shah. How long it takes to observe these results varies from person to person, though it's typically a few weeks.
Safe to DIY? Yes, you can apply the cream yourself, but it's available by prescription only.
Safe for all hair colors and skin tones ? Yes, although it's worth noting that pregnant women might want to hold off. The safety of these creams during pregnancy has not yet been established.
Pros: The cream is an easy way to target unwanted facial hair and works for all skin types and hair colors.
Cons: It's pricey; it works only for the face; and ultimately, it doesn't actually remove the hair.
Electrolysis
How it works: An epilator device emits shortwave radio frequencies or an electric current into the follicle. “This damages it, to prevent future hair growth while also causing existing hairs to fall out,” Dr. Green explains.
Cost: Prices can range from $30 to over $100 per treatment, says Dr. Shah. Keep in mind that you'll need multiple sessions – usually four to six, spaced out every six to eight weeks – to see complete results, says Dr. Green. Ruli members say the average cost for treatment is $425.
Where to try it: Electrolysis can be performed safely and effectively on all areas of the face and body. It can be painful, so sometimes a topical numbing cream is used on sensitive areas, such as the bikini line.
How long results last: According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), electrolysis is the only permanent hair removal method. Along with laser hair removal, this is one of the most long-lasting hair removal methods available, says Dr. Green.
Safe to DIY? While there are at-home electrolysis devices available, both experts agree that the results these tools provide are inferior and it's best to see a professional aesthetician trained and certified in electrolysis.
Safe for all hair colors and skin tones ? Yes.
Pros: It yields very long-lasting results and can be done on everyone and everywhere. Unlike laser hair removal, this is a good option even for lighter hair.
Cons: Multiple sessions are required, it can be costly and painful.
Related: Should You Try At-Home Laser Hair Removal?
At-home energy-based devices
How they work: “ These devices employ IPL, intense pulsed light. A bright light is rapidly flashed onto the treated area. The light is filtered so that a specific wavelength hits the pigment in the hairs, generating heat and destroying the hair follicle,” explains Dr. Shah.
Cost: This is one instance where you get what you pay for. While Dr. Shah says you can find devices ranging from $100 to over $400, the quality is directly correlated with the price. We've had good outcomes with the Luma Rx Full Body IPL Skin Beauty System ($449).
Where to try it: Skip the genitals as well as larger, hard-to-reach areas, like your back. Focusing on smaller areas – bikini line, upper lip, toes – is your best choice.
How long results last: These won't provide permanent results, but with repeated use (most devices are meant to be used every two weeks), you can expect a permanent reduction in hair growth.
Safe to DIY? Yes, but it's extremely important to proceed with extreme caution, says Dr. Green.
Safe for all hair colors and skin tones ? No. These are a definite no-go for anyone with dark skin. These devices can't distinguish between the pigment in the hair and the pigment in the skin, increasing the risk of burns and scarring, warns Dr. Shah. (He also advises that even fair-skinned individuals avoid using these during the summer, as the same issue can occur with tanned skin.) Similarly, the devices won't work on light hair. The ideal candidate is someone with pale skin and dark hair.
Pros: Discomfort is generally minimal, and these devices can be used in the comfort of your own home. With repeated use, the results can be effective and long-lasting.
Cons: They don't work on dark skin and/or light hair, come with the risk of user error, and are costly.
In-office laser hair removal
How it works: These professional devices operate similarly to their less intense counterpart, IPL. The laser energy targets the melanin (pigment) in the hair follicle. As it converts from light to heat, the follicle is damaged and hair growth is restricted.
Cost: Again, prices vary widely, depending on both where you live and the area you're treating. Dr. Green says you can expect to spend anywhere from $200 to $600 per treatment; Ruli members say it costs an average of $875. And keep in mind that you will need multiple treatments – anywhere from six to eight, spaced a few weeks apart – to achieve the desired results. The laser only affects the hairs that are in the growth phase of the hair cycle.
Where to try it: It can be done on any part of the body or face.
How long results last: This won't permanently remove the hair, but it will permanently reduce it. A complete cycle of treatments can remove anywhere from 70% to 90% of the hair in a given area. You'll need to plan for at least an annual touch-up to maintain these results, though the good news is, any hair that does grow back will usually be much finer. The point is, it's another good option if you're looking for a more long-lasting hair removal method.
Safe to DIY? No. Don't confuse in-office laser devices with the weaker, at-home IPL tools intended for consumer use. Lasers are for professionals only.
Safe for all hair colors and skin tones? Not too long ago, the answer was no, but recent technological advancements have made laser hair removal an option for people of all skin tones. Newer lasers, such as the Nd:YAG laser, have a longer wavelength that bypasses the melanin-dense part of the skin, making it safe for even the two darkest skin types, Fitzpatrick V and VI. That said, dark skin is still at a higher risk of burning and hyperpigmentation, making it even more crucial that your provider is licensed and experienced... and using the correct laser. And despite many new innovations, laser hair removal is still likely to be ineffective for those with lighter hair.
Pros: This offers permanent hair reduction and can be performed on any area of the body or face.
Cons:
