Wax melts – Meltable wax either arrives in the form of beads that are placed into a wax warmer, or jars of solid wax that can be placed in the microwave for melting. The wax is then applied with a wooden spatula onto the face and swiftly removed once it hardens by picking at the edge and pulling in the opposite direction of the hair growth. Although it can be messy, these products last a while, allow hair removal in more difficult areas, and since hair is removed from the root, they deliver a longer period of time before regrowth.
Wax strips – Wax strips are an easy and fast way to get lasting results. The wax arrives between two strips that can be pulled apart and used separately. Although wax strips offer ease of use, they can be a little rough on the skin when pulled. In addition, it’s hard to get the perfect sized strip for intricate areas such as the eyebrows.
Hair removal cream – Hair removal cream is a great pain-free option. Using a chemical depilatory to break down the hair on application, such creams require no skill to use and are great for those short on time. However, they can cause irritation to those with sensitive skin.
IPL hair removal device – IPL devices are finally now available for at-home use, so you no longer have to spend literally thousands for laser removal at a salon or beauty centre. Using intense pulsed light to break down and remove hair, multiple sessions will see regrowth disappear. Note that at-home IPL tools won’t be as powerful as the machines in a salon, but they’re still an amazing way to keep facial hair at bay for very long periods of time.
Epilator – An epilator is a super-efficient way to remove hair from the root and prevent quick regrowth. The device is made up of a group of tiny tweezers that spin at a fast pace, pulling out hair as it’s moved across the skin. Although a little uncomfortable (okay – who are we kidding – a lot uncomfortable), if used correctly, they’re efficient in use and deliver lasting results.
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What should I look for in a good facial hair removal product?
So, the tools and techniques are plentiful, then. However, it’s important to consider a few things when choosing the right method of hair removal for you.
Harshness – Or lack thereof. When removing hair on the delicate skin of the face, it’s important to use products made specifically for that area, to avoid damage and minimise any irritation to the skin. In particular, those with super-sensitive skin should look for products for that skin type to avoid rashes, redness, and irritation.
Long lasting – Removing facial hair can be a pain, especially if you require daily touch-ups. So, if you’re after long-lasting results, you won’t want to opt for a razor, since regrowth will likely appear in a matter of days. A product that promises smooth or hair-free skin for a few weeks, or even a month or so, can really buy you back some time, eliminating that extra step from your daily routine.
Efficiency – No one wants to spend hours on end removing hair from their face. Thankfully, many new facial hair removal methods are designed to get the job done quickly and efficiently. If time is of the essence, stay away from fiddly products that require a degree of prep.
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The best facial hair removal products to buy in 2023
1. Braun Face Mini Hair Remover: Best overall facial hair remover
Price when reviewed: £18 | Check price at Boots
If you’ve ever missed a spot whilst shaving, only becoming aware of it once you’ve left the house, then the Braun Face Mini Hair Remover is for you. This discrete package can easily slip into a small purse or a pocket for touch-ups on the go, and the fact that it’s battery-powered, means you can really use it anywhere because it doesn’t require to be plugged in.
And its portability isn’t the only reason this Braun shaver is one the best overall facial hair remover; it also delivers truly outstanding and pain-free results.
The innovative rotary design with protective foil cuts super-close to the skin for a baby-smooth finish that’s free of nicks or irritation. It’s easy to use with an integrated light for spotting even the smallest hairs, and its head is perfect for getting into the hardest to reach areas of your face – above the top lip and into the contours of the chin, for example. It even comes with a cleaning brush so you can easily sweep up fallen hair from around a sink.
Key specs – Type: Shaver; Pieces in kit: 4; Level: Beginner; Pain level: None
