The best hair removal method will vary based on your skin type and where you’re looking to remove hair. Here are a few of the most popular options.
Dermaplaning
“Dermaplaning is the use of a single-blade razor on dry skin. It is a way to exfoliate, getting rid of the top layer of dead skin cells and those pesky, fine vellus hairs,” says Jodi LoGerfo, DNP, APRN, FNP-BC, a doctor of nursing practice and family nurse practitioner at Orentreich Medical Group. She recommends dermaplaning as a gentle option to remove hair on all skin types.
“I absolutely recommend dermaplaning,” says makeup artist Shreni Patel. “Because it gently takes off excess hair and dead skin cells, it creates a better canvas for not only makeup but better skin care absorption. Makeup goes on so much smoother and doesn’t cling to any peach fuzz or skin patches. My favorite part is that you can do it at home—and it’s painless.”
Oil-planing
Your favorite face oil can also act as a shaving oil of sorts for your dermaplaning routine, according to Dr. LoGerfo. “Oil-planing is dermaplaning after the application of an oil. It is considered a gentler way to dermaplane,” says Dr. LoGerfo. “Some benefits of oil-planing is that the razor glides more easily after the oil is applied (as opposed to using a dermaplaning razor on dry, rough skin). It more gently removes dead skin cells and facial hair and is a great way to dermaplane on older skin or skin that is more sensitive.”
Tweezing
Tweezers are intended to precisely pluck individual stray hairs. They’re great for removing stray hairs on the chin or upper lip, as well as the brows. They are not recommended for removing peach fuzz or for use on large areas.
Waxing
“Waxing eliminates both vellus and terminal hairs (the dark, thick hair that covers our body). It is longer-lasting than shaving or chemical depilatories because the hairs are removed from the bulb,” says Dr. LoGerfo. “Some advantages to waxing include that it can slow the rate of regrowth compared to shaving or depilatories and it is advantageous to wax larger areas.”
When waxing your face at home, Dr. LoGerfo recommends exercising caution. “Some issues that can occur after waxing include folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicle), burns, irritation to the skin, and allergies,” she says. If you are on Accutane, she recommends avoiding waxing altogether. If you use retinol, it’s recommended to discontinue use several days before and after you wax.
Epilating
Epilators use hundreds of tiny tweezers to pull multiple hairs from the root at once. The higher the tweezer head count, the faster the epilator will be able to remove the hairs. Epilators are typically preferred for removing body hair rather than facial hair, since they’re bigger than most facial trimmers. There are also cream-based epilators, also known as depilatory creams, which dissolve hair at the root.
How do you prepare for facial hair removal?
Proper prep is essential for avoiding irritation and ingrown hairs, whether you choose to shave, wax, or pluck. “You should always cleanse the area you are going to remove the hair from thoroughly with a gentle cleanser,” says Dr. LoGerfo. “Lightly exfoliating is also helpful. You can do this the day before hair removal.” If you plan to shave or dermaplane, you can apply an oil or a light moisturizer before doing so.
As for waxing, you should only apply wax to clean, dry skin in order for the wax to adhere properly. “Before waxing, make sure your hair is about one-fourth to three-fourths of an inch long,” says Dr. King. “Trim it if it’s longer to make the process less messy and painful.” Heat up the wax according to the package instructions, then test a small amount on your wrist before applying to your face. “It should feel warm but should not hurt or burn,” she says.
By Ariel Wodarcyk, Jennifer Hussein
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