These 16 Best Hair Removal Products Will Leave Your Skin Soft and Stubble-Free (2024)

Hair removal can be a pain (often both literally and figuratively). Shaving is often tedious and time-consuming, while waxing can be painful and expensive (and not to mention a bad idea if you also use a retinoid in your skincare routine). But if your seventh-grade self learned anything from those experiments with smelly depilatories, it’s that at-home hair removal products were seldom the solution. But there’s a new crop of hair removal options that are challenging that notion. Whether you’re looking to temporarily or permanently get rid of hair on your face or body, there’s a product (or two) you will want to try.

To find the best hair removal products, we conducted hours of research and consulted with our editors for their recommendations. We evaluated each product based on how efficiently, quickly, and painlessly it could remove hair. We also checked for other benefits, such as whether it was exfoliating or moisturizing. Finally, after considering dozens of products, we landed on these high-quality picks.

Our Top Picks

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What We Like

  • Includes everything you need

  • Easy to use

  • Long battery life

What to Consider

  • Might irritate sensitive skin

A multistep system, this aesthetician-recommended package has everything you need to get rid of unwanted peach fuzz from start to finish. It allows you to prep your hair, remove it, and then soothe the area after the fact.

First, use the included cleanser to prepare your skin for hair removal. This is formulated with salicylic acid and papaya enzymes to exfoliate the skin while willow bark and niacinamide soothe the skin and strengthen the skin barrier. The dermaplaning head can then be used in short feathery strokes to remove dead skin cells and peach fuzz. Lastly, calm the skin with the Hydrating Moisturizer.The result? Smoother, brighter, and more youthful skin.

Who It’s For

This is suitable for anyone that wants to remove very fine, "peach fuzz" hair on the face while also targeting signs of aging. This can be used on all skin types but is not recommended for sensitive skin.

What We Like

  • Affordable and great value

  • Portable

  • Glides across the skin smoothly

What to Consider

  • May not be ideal for sensitive skin

It’s definitely more cost-friendly to dermaplane at home. Sephora’s disposable razors allow you to exfoliate and remove excess hair on the face for smoother, younger-looking skin that’s also unobstructed for better product absorption. Each razor features an ergonomic design that’s easy to control and handle with a stainless steel head. As they are quite sharp, we’d suggest only using them if you’re confident in dermaplaning—they can scratch if your technique isn’t on point. It kind of goes without saying, but they need to be kept well out of reach from children, too.

Who It’s For

These razors are suitable for anyone who wants to remove very fine hair on the face. They’re suitable for all skin types, apart from those with sensitivity or eczema.

What We Like

  • Can be used daily

  • Portable

  • Affordable

What to Consider

  • Battery life could be longer

Hair removal isn’t the most glamorous concept, but this discreet white-and-rose-gold device makes the process a little bit chicer. If you've ever tried to remove fuzz from your upper lip area, you know just how painful it can be. But this new hair removal device is designed to gently remove facial hair without redness or irritation thanks to an 18-karat gold-plated tip and LED light—it’s even safe enough to use every day. We’ve been using one of these little gizmos for the past two years and it’s made our (very painful) monthly threading appointments a thing of the past. It’s totally painless and the results are very long-lasting. It was our best-kept secret, until now.

Who It’s For

Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested, this hair removal device is safe and suitable to be used by all skin types. It can be used all over the face—from the eyebrows, to the upper lips, face and chin.

What We Like

  • Safe for sensitive skin

  • Includes everything you need

  • Hardens fast

What to Consider

  • Takes a while to melt/warm up

This wax infused with chamomile oil is soothing and safe to use on sensitive skin. The cute kit includes spatulas and a pre- and post-waxing oil. To use, first microwave the cup in 30 second intervals until its consistency is similar to that of thick honey. Make sure to stir the wax gently between each interval. After heating, use the spatula and check the temperature of the wax on the inside of your wrist. If all feels right, apply the wax against the direction of hair growth, let sit until it hardens, and go to town. The wax contains a host of soothing ingredients including purifying rosin that removes dead skin cells, cruelty-free beeswax and lanolin, paraffin wax (known for its low melting point), and soothing chamomile flower. Salon results from the comfort of your home? We’re in.

Who It’s For

The chamomile oil in this wax means that it’s gentle enough to be used on all skin types, including sensitive. It can be used anywhere on the body—from the eyebrows to the legs.

What We Like

  • Comes with multiple blades

  • Comfortable grip

  • Leaves a moisturizing finish

What to Consider

  • Some may not like the weighted handle

Is shaving your go-to way to remove pesky stubble? If so, we found your new favorite razor, courtesy of Gillette. Each razor has five blades, which are surrounded by a moisturizing lotion for extra hydration, and a micro-comb that leaves the skin feeling super smooth. Also, its grip is comfortable and it glides easily, so you don't have to worry about nicking your skin from pressing too hard. One blade should last up to 30 days and each pack comes with two heads.

Who It’s For

A razor blade is one of the simplest forms of hair removal and is suitable for all. Use it to remove unwanted hair from the armpits, legs and bikini line.

What We Like

  • Provides a close shave

  • Prevents razor burn

  • Safe for sensitive skin

What to Consider

  • Can rust if left in the shower

Before you decide that you're done with shaving, this weighted single blade straight razor, made in Germany from stainless steel, could be worth a try. A noted Byrdie team favorite, it provides a close shave without all of the hair-pulling and after-burn often associated with razors, even for those with thick, curly hair. It’s designed with the ritual of shaving in mind, so you're going to want to take your time with this weighty razor. (Your smooth skin will thank you for it). Each razor comes with 10 blades, too, so you’ll be set for quite a few months.

Who It’s For

As the razor’s name suggests, this is a great pick for those with sensitive skin but it can be used by all. It’s also ideal for those that suffer with strawberry skin after shaving as it can help to reduce bumps and irritation.

What We Like

  • Mess-free, easy application

  • Nonirritating formula

  • Dermatologist-tested

What to Consider

  • Strong smell

Infused with natural coconut oil and vitamin E, this hair removal formula is designed for sensitive, hard-to-reach areas like your underarms. Plus, applying it is completely mess-free—just twist the dial to dispense the cream, smooth it onto your skin using the top of the applicator, leave it be for six minutes, rinse it off, and you'll be set with smooth underarms for up to six days.

Who It’s For

If you find daily shaving under your arms causes irritation, this is a great alternative. It won’t leave you with any bumpy bits either.

What We Like

  • Moisturizing

  • Has a great smell

  • Includes applicator

What to Consider

  • Long application time

Unlike other hair growth inhibitors of the past, this one doesn’t smell like rotten eggs. (That statement, alone, deserves a standing ovation). With soothing superstars like vitamin E and aloe, the formula glides on easily and performs its disappearing act in five minutes. It penetrates the skin and eliminates the hair follicle as close to the root as possible, revealing super-sleek legs with no stubble in sight. You can even use it on short stubble, which is ideal if you don’t like to grow out your leg hair. To apply, take the included spatula and spread an even layer of cream to coat every strand. After five to 10 minutes, remove the cream using the same spatula and rinse the skin with warm water. Voila, vacation-ready legs!

Who It’s For

Dermatologist tested, this formula is suitable for sensitive skin and safe for all, including pregnant women. It can also be used on stubble and longer body hair.

What We Like

  • Minimizes hair growth over time

  • Smells good

  • Nourishing formula

What to Consider

  • Must use consistently to see results

This cruelty-free lotion wears many hats, so to speak. First of all, it reduces hair growth with two ingredients: cb tri-complex and cap slow. These are clinically proven to reduce hair growth by 55%, hair density by 50%, and hair length by 30%. But the benefits don’t stop there. With ingredients like shea butter and white willow bark, it hydrates and soothes the skin while enhancing cell turnover, leaving you with super-smooth legs. Plus, it has a super refreshing scent, thanks to lemongrass and green tea extract. For best results, apply the cream twice a day.

Who It’s For

This cream is for anyone who loves the look and feel of super smooth, hair-free legs but doesn’t want to shave every day. It can also be used anywhere on the body.

What We Like

  • Long-lasting results

  • Can be used wet or dry

  • Includes different caps for different areas

What to Consider

  • Doesn't have the best battery life

Wet or dry, this virtually painless epilator grabs onto even the shortest hairs that waxing and shaving miss. And the best part? It can remove hair four times shorter than is needed for waxing and, since it's basically a quicker version of tweezing, you don't have to pass on this new hair removal device if you also use a retinoid. It also comes with a number of attachments including a facial cap and a bikini trimmer so you can use it from head to toe, even in the bath or shower. Enjoy the results of a wax (up to four weeks of smooth, hairless skin) without all the fuss.

Who It’s For

With extra attachments for the face and bikini line along with the standard shaver and trimmer, this is for anyone who wants one gadget to do everything, hair-removal wise. Epilation is more painful than other options in this list but if you don’t mind that, this is an excellent multitasker.

What We Like

  • Exfoliates with clay and charcoal

  • Removes all hair and stubble for a smooth finish

  • Tested by dermatologists

What to Consider

  • Long application time

You treat your hair, your face, and your eyes to a mask, but what about your legs? Hair removal has a bad reputation for being painful and uncomfortable, but this treatment uses clay and charcoal to not only exfoliate and moisturize the skin but effortlessly remove hair and stubble, too. Just smooth the cream onto the area you want to treat, leave on for five to 10 minutes, and wipe off. Soft, smooth skin is yours.

Who It’s For

This can be used on all skin types but a patch test is recommended before using on a large area like the legs. It’s also a good option for anyone who hates the discomfort associated with waxing and epilating as it’s pain-free.

What We Like

  • No muslin strips needed

  • Safe for sensitive skin

  • Includes everything you need

What to Consider

  • Can be painful to remove

This kit has everything you need for a Brazilian wax in the comfort of your own home. This wax hardens—no need for muslin strips—and conveniently heats up right in your microwave. The system comes with the wax, two pre-wax treatments, two post-wax treatments, and 10 applicators. Basically, with this kit in your arsenal, you are your own wax technician. This product is very effective at removing hair from such a sensitive area but a word of warning—it is painful.

Who It’s For

This is for anyone who loves the very thorough hair removal results of a Brazilian wax but doesn’t want to commit to the salon price tag. If you do want to remove hair from all the areas involved in a classic Brazilian, however, you’ll probably use most of the wax in the container.

What We Like

  • Doesn't need to be replaced

  • Painless

  • Safe to use on all skin tones

What to Consider

  • Has to be plugged in to use

Although many hair removal devices are called “lasers,” many don’t actually use them. Instead, they use Intense Pulse Light (IPL) technology, which actually targets hair’s melanin to banish the follicle. Desired results usually occur after repeated treatment. Its biggest benefit: It’s completely painless. This system, in particular, has a lifetime’s worth of pulses—approximately 400,000—which means you never have to replace the cartridge, which makes the hefty price tag well worth it. When gently moved across the skin, galvanic energy is released to open the pores, allowing for more speedy removal.

Who It’s For

Unlike many other devices, this one is safe to use on all skin tones. The brand states on its website that it’s ideal for use with lighter skin tones (I to V on the Fitzpatrick Skin Tone Classification Scale) and brown-to-black hair. It may work on blonde, grey, or red hair if there is enough pigment.

What We Like

  • Removes hair permanently with visible results in three weeks

  • Painless

  • 10 minute treatments

What to Consider

  • Might irritate sensitive skin

Another (and more affordable) at-home IPL option is this pick from Nood. Each treatment only takes 10 minutes at a time, and you should expect full results in less than eight weeks. Another pro: it's been FDA-approved to be safe for the skin, so you don't have to worry about any damaging side effects. The LED display makes using it super easy and you can switch between modes to treat smaller and larger surface areas. It can be irritating on sensitive skin however so we’d recommend a patch test before using on larger areas.

Who It’s For

This handy gadget is suitable for anyone that wants long-lasting hair removal without any associated pain. It may not be suitable for very sensitive and compromised skin.

What We Like

  • Removes close to the root

  • Moisturizing

  • Works for all skin types

What to Consider

  • Has a strong smell

Using hair removal creams can be quite the gamble if you have thick or coarse hair, but this one from Neomen is up to the challenge. You can use it on any part of your body, and it can remove hair in as little as five minutes. Many reviewers noted that it was able to perfectly remove their body hair without irritating or burning (which was common for them with other hair removal creams).

What We Like

  • Has a gentle formula to remove hair easily after five minutes

  • Lovely but subtle scent

  • Made with hydrating ingredients

What to Consider

  • Small amount of product

If you prefer a standard hair removal cream but want something a little bit more elevated than the ones you used in high school, we recommend this option from Flamingo—a brand that specializes in hair removal. It has a gentle formula that doesn't cause stinging or irritation (even though you should always patch test if you have allergies or skin conditions). Since creams can be drying, you'll love that this formula has ingredients that add hydration back into the skin, such as shea butter, urea, and glycerin.

Who It's For

We love this cream for those who have skin that's too sensitive for harsher forms of hair removal, like waxing and dermaplaning. It can keep the skin free of hair for up to seven days.

What to Look for in Hair Removal Products

  • Removal Type: When looking for hair removal products, you should consider what type of removal you prefer or want to try. There are razors, hair removal creams, dermaplanes, waxes, and IPL systems that work in different ways to remove hair. Pros and cons exist for each type of removal process. Razors are convenient, affordable, and quick to use, but the results do not last long, and some people may experience ingrown hairs or breakouts when using razors on their sensitive pubic areas or faces. Hair removal creams take a long time to use but can provide more lasting results. However, they cannot be used on more sensitive pubic areas and often, not on the face. Dermaplanes and different types of waxes may work best on the face, although some people with sensitive skin may end up with breakouts. Dermaplanes are only useful for fine hair, typically only on the face. IPL systems, on the other hand, are expensive and can often only be used below the neck. They also take a long time to provide lasting results. People with darker skin or lighter skin with light hair may not see satisfying results.
  • Hair Type: The type of hair you want to remove is central to what hair removal product you choose. Fine and thin hairs will respond better to dermaplaning and hair removal creams, while longer, thicker hairs will require an epilator, razor, or IPL technology. Some products, such as hair removal creams, cannot be used in the pubic area, although they can work well along the bikini line. Look for hair removal products that make sense for the hair you wish to remove, from your eyebrows to your legs.
  • Use Frequency: Consider how often and how long you have to dedicate to the hair removal process. If near-daily quick removal suits your schedule, razors and dermaplanes are an excellent choice. However, consider if you’d rather remove hair for a longer time and can devote a longer initial removal process to achieving this. In that case, hair removal creams and IPL technology provide varying levels of effective hair removal, especially with repeated use. Some hair will require more frequent removal, such as eyebrow and upper lip hair. For these areas, consider waxes that are gentle on the skin or single small blade razors that are quick to use.

FAQ

  • What product can remove hair permanently?

    IPL (intense pulsed light) technology can remove hair permanently. However, this process takes longer due to the hair’s growth cycle, which must be interrupted at every stage. This can take a few months, but some devices can remove 94% of hair with only three uses.

  • Which product is best for pubic hair removal?

    A razor is a safe and practical choice for pubic hair removal in the sensitive genital area. Some waxes may be suitable for the pubic area but beware of very sensitive and thin skin in the genital area.

  • Which hair removal method lasts the longest?

    IPL technology is the longest-lasting hair removal method that can be safely performed at home. For a less expensive and time-consuming option, you can try waxing or hair removal creams that last longer than shaving. The best epilators also typically create results that last longer than shaving.

Why Trust Byrdie

Catherine Hufton is a London-based lifestyle journalist and has been a contributing writer and editor for Byrdie since 2022. She digs deep into all things fashion and beauty to find the very best shopping must-haves—from the most effective collagen serums to the best drugstore makeup essentials.

Syden Abrenica has worked as an editor for publications like Family Circle, Good Housekeeping, and Health. She's also been a copywriter for Macy's and American Express. Syden is an NYC-based writer with 5+ years of experience writing and editing for national magazines. She also creates content for large retail companies. She holds a BA in English and Journalism from Montclair State University.

According to our Diversity Pledge, 15% of products in our newly-published market roundups will feature Black-owned and/or Black-founded brands. At the time of publishing, we were not able to find enough hair removal products from Black-owned and/or Black-founded businesses to meet this percentage. If you know of one we should consider, please email us at contact@byrdie.com and we will evaluate the product ASAP.

These 16 Best Hair Removal Products Will Leave Your Skin Soft and Stubble-Free (2024)
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