Facial hair removal for women: a guide

Everyone wants to put their best face forward. For some people, that means removing facial hair — whether that be on the upper lip and chin, surrounding bushy brows or excessive peach fuzz on the cheeks.

Before reaching for the razors, let’s take a step back and figure out the method that best suits different skin types and goals. Here are some facial hair removal options and what they work best for.

In this article:

Understanding female facial hair growth

Let’s get one thing straight: There’s nothing wrong with having hair on the chin, upper lips, brow bone or cheeks. It’s natural — whether it’s due to genetics or hormonal changes.¹ But to get rid of it or discourage growth due to personal preference, there are several ways to remove facial hair.

Ways to remove facial hair

While waxing and tweezing are common, there are more options for removing facial hair. Keep scrolling to learn about different techniques — both professional and at-home — to consider for facial hair removal.

At-home facial hair removal

Waxing

Waxing is available at the salon or can be done at home. When waxing at home, following the product label instructions carefully is key.

Waxing pulls out the hairs, and the results can last a few weeks or longer.² But some people shy away from waxing because the method can cause redness and irritation for a while afterward. And if the wax is too hot, it can burn the skin.³

Waxing is not recommended for those who have taken isotretinoin in the last six months or have used topical products or prescriptions containing retinoids in the last two to five days.⁴

“While waxing is an option for many, I wouldn’t recommend it for facial hair, especially if the person is prone to irritation and pigmentation,” says board-certified dermatologist Sanober Pezad Doctor.⁵

For those interested in face waxing, consider the Flamingo Women’s Face Wax Kit.

Shaving

The razor is a great first foray into hair removal. Shaving is a simple step to add to a skin care routine. When shaving, the razor cuts hairs at the surface so the hairs can no longer be seen.⁶

Specific facial razors are available for this method of hair removal. These tools need to be used on dry skin while held taut. If shaving other parts of the body, make sure to have a dedicated razor for the face to prevent the spread of bacteria.⁷

For example, facial razor product options include the About Face Pro-Premium Facial Razors and the CVS Beauty Dermaplane Facial Razors.

Shaving with facial razors is convenient, affordable and painless; however, to maintain the results, shaving needs to be consistently incorporated into a routine.⁸

Depilatory creams

What if hair removal is as easy as applying lotion? That’s pretty much the case with depilatory creams and lotions, which are mild formulas with thioglycolic acid.⁹ This acid breaks down keratin, resulting in the temporary removal of hairs above the skin surface. It’s an affordable and accessible product that makes for a wonderful DIY option, but it’s not for everyone, as these products can irritate the skin when not used as directed.¹⁰ Those with sensitive skin or conditions like eczema, psoriasis or rosacea should avoid this method.

While depilatory creams are easy to use, the scent might be off-putting to some folks.¹¹ It is necessary to consult the product label for directions on use and safety information. Avoid leaving depilatory creams on too long, and make sure to only use products intended for the face and to rinse thoroughly to avoid skin irritation or removal.¹² For example, don’t remove facial hair with a depilatory cream designed for leg hair removal. Instead, make sure the cream is designated for facial use.¹³

Consider a facial hair removal cream like the Flamingo Facial Hair Removal Cream.

Professional facial hair removal

Threading

Threading is a timeless, natural method for hair removal that involves rolling cotton thread twists and ripping hair straight from the roots.¹⁴

Threading removes a line of hair at a time, so it’s ideal for precisely shaping perfect eyebrows — but it’s not recommended for larger areas.¹⁵ It’s generally done by a specialist, and it causes only minimal irritation, making it an option for acne-prone or sensitive skin.¹⁶

Lasering (laser hair reduction)

Laser hair removal is a modern-day procedure that uses a single concentrated beam of light on the targeted area to destroy the hair follicles, weakening the hair cells temporarily.¹⁷

Lasering is a semipermanent hair removal option.¹⁸ While laser hair reduction sessions at a dermatologist’s office can be quick, it usually takes a few to start seeing results. Most patients need touch-up maintenance treatments over the long term.¹⁹

The process may be painful in sensitive areas, but some laser hair removal machines have a “chilling hose” connected to the handle. This ensures relief throughout the treatment. Take extra precautions for aftercare, like avoiding direct sunlight and tanning beds.²⁰

Electrolysis

Want to get rid of facial hair for good? Electrolysis is the latest of the fuzz-fighting technologies. This permanent process removes individual hairs by inserting a fine probe into the follicle, sending an electric current to destroy the hair root.²¹

Electrolysis can be a tedious process since it focuses on one hair at a time, but it can make sense for hair removal on small areas such as the upper lip, brows and chin. It can be more painful and expensive than other methods, but it doesn’t require maintenance treatments.²² It’s also great for light-colored hair, which regular laser hair removal treatment struggles to get rid of.²³

Tips for effective facial hair removal

Regardless of the method used, there are a few steps to consider beforehand to set up any hair removal session. Keep scrolling to learn more about prepping the area, following proper aftercare and dealing with potential side effects.

Preparing skin for hair removal

First things first: Make sure the face is cleansed and clear of any makeup and residue.²⁴ For waxing, generally it’s best to let the hair grow a little, approximately one-fourth to three-fourths of an inch long.²⁵ Before shaving, a best practice is to wet the skin and hair to soften it, although products may have different directions for use.²⁶

Avoid excessive sun exposure before and after any facial hair removal. A fresh sunburn is a no-go for any hair removal procedure.²⁷

Post-hair removal skin care

Now that the skin is nice and smooth, let’s keep things smooth-sailing with proper aftercare. Even shaving alone can dry out the skin, so moisturization is key.²⁸

Happy, hydrated skin is less prone to irritation and will help bring out the skin’s glow. After lasering or using depilatory creams, it’s important to avoid direct sunlight and to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher.²⁹

“Make sure to be thorough and discuss the best option for the removal of facial hair with a specialist,” says Dr. Sanober Pezad Doctor. “While various methods might seem interesting to try, if not done under the right guidance and with the necessary caution required for various methods, they can harm the facial skin in the long run.”³⁰

Dealing with possible side effects

Always take extra precautions by discussing with a dermatologist the potential side effects and preventive actions for every hair removal method.

Nicks and cuts, razor burn, redness and irritation are common side effects, but laser hair removal may cause more serious ones like skin discoloration or scarring. With hair removal creams, be sure to thoroughly wash the product off the skin to prevent skin irritation or removal.³¹ Use products as directed.

Picking the right method for your skin type

Hair removal methods aren’t a one-size-fits-all situation. For those with sensitive skin or skin conditions, opting for gentle techniques is crucial.

There are sensitive razor options for shaving, and wax strips with soothing ingredients like aloe vera, to help calm the skin. Those with a skin condition such as eczema, psoriasis or rosacea should consult with a dermatologist before trying methods like lasering, electrolysis and depilatory creams.³²

Frequently asked questions

Which method is best for facial hair removal?

Hair removal methods aren’t a one-size-fits-all situation, so it depends on the person. Shaving and waxing are quick and convenient, while lasering and electrolysis are more long-term. According to Dr. Sanober Pezad Doctor, skin tone and type are a factor in effectiveness and side effects, and sensitive skin calls for greater precaution and aftercare.³³

How can I remove facial hair permanently?

Electrolysis is the only hair removal method that is permanent. Lasering is a semipermanent option. Both methods require several sessions.³⁴

Is facial hair removal painful?

Facial hair removal may be painful depending on skin sensitivity, and whether proper prep and post-care are carried out. Even with the noninvasive process of shaving, nicks and cuts are possible.³⁵

Are there any potential side effects of facial hair removal?

Nicks and cuts, razor burn, redness and irritation are common side effects, but more serious ones like skin discoloration or scarring may be caused by laser hair removal.³⁶ And with hair removal creams, be sure to thoroughly wash the product off the skin to prevent skin irritation or removal.³⁷

This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Consult your health care provider before taking any vitamins or supplements and prior to beginning or changing any health care practices.