The 16 Best Facial Hair Removal Products of 2024, According to Dermatologists

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Bye-bye, peach fuzz.

Shannon M. Bauer is an Associate Editorial Director for Dotdash Meredith's Beauty & Style Group. She joined the Shape team in 2022 and works with a team of talented freelance writers to create expert- and research-driven product roundups. Shannon has seven years of experience writing, editing, and producing beauty and wellness content for top print and digital publications. Shannon was previously a Beauty Editor at Parents, Parents Latina, and Shape print magazines.

In This Article

Shape / Jaclyn Mastropasqua

You may have clicked on this story to find an instant answer to your burning question regarding the best facial hair removal products since your electric razor isn't fit for the job and you're not sure whether it's safe to put shaving cream in some spots. Nevertheless, here's your reminder that body hair is normal, and what you do or do not do with it is entirely up to you. If you want to rock it, by all means, you should; if you want to remove it, that’s cool, too — and that’s where Shape's editor advice can be helpful. Instead of heading to your local drugstore and buying the first facial hair removal product you see, allow our trusty team of testers and board-certified dermatologists to guide you to the perfect product for your facial hair removal goals.

"The key is to select a well-known brand and to proceed with caution," says Jeffrey Fromowitz, M.D., a Florida-based dermatologist. That, and to pick the proper hair removal method for your hair type and goals — what may work well for pesky peach fuzz may not provide the same results for thick, coarse hair. With this in mind, Shape scoured the web for the best facial hair removal products and put them to the test, evaluating them on ease of use, effectiveness, and the resulting look and feel of our skin. Then, we chatted with a few dermatologists to fill in any blanks for their expertise. Read on below for our findings.

Easy to apply

Notable results in 5 to 10 minutes

Skin may look flushed afterward

The small tube on the Flamingo Facial Hair Removal Cream mimics a lip balm tube with its angled tip, making applying it to treatment areas more straightforward than ever. Testers found that with this feature (and the static formula that stays in place once applied), there was no risk of accidentally spreading the facial hair removal cream to unwanted areas. It took just five minutes to remove the fine peach hair from testers' faces fully, and about three weeks for it to finally grow back. With the absence of pesky peach fuzz, testers noticed that their makeup applied more seamlessly, as no tiny hairs were getting in the way.

Two things to mention: First, the Flamingo Facial Hair Removal Cream has a strong scent — there’s no getting around it. Thankfully, it takes five to ten minutes to process, and the scent disappears once the product is rinsed off. Second, although it’s a pain-free treatment, we did notice that our skin looked the tiniest bit flushed post-use, but it subsided shortly thereafter. If you have sensitive skin, be sure to patch-test on your skin before applying it to your face.

Size: 1.35 fl oz | Method: Hair Removal Cream

Guardless for a closer shave

Reusable up to four times

Safety tip at top of blade to prevent nicks

Must clean the blade with rubbing alcohol in between uses

If you’re unsure how dermaplaning could fit into your routine, imagine yourself with the smoothest, most glowy skin imaginable — at all times— and see if that influences you. After a little bit of practice, Barefaced’s facial razor (and the brand’s Perfectionist Facial + Shave Oil) seamlessly eliminated peach fuzz and dead skin cells from Shape writer Maddie Barber's face, leaving behind a finish she could only compare to “glass skin.” Prepare to be complimented post-shave, but don't forget to read the how-to guide to dermaplaning before using your razor, especially if it's your first time. "Definitely go slowly, whether or not it's your first time dermaplaning," says Barber, who attempted the practice for the first time using the Barefaced razor (and a good amount of oil as a precaution).

Why It’s a 2024 Shape Beauty Award Winner: Barefaced’s Facial Razor makes achieving smooth, glowing skin an easy feat with its stainless steel blade (and no guard) that provides an ultra-close shave.

Size: N/A | Method: Dermaplaner

Effective for both fine and thick hair

Great value

Sweet almond oil nourishes skin

Can be irritating when used with retinoids

Patch testing is important

Sometimes, classic beauty brands earn their status for a reason: they just work! "Nair is still the tried and true depilatory cream," says Lora Condon, a New Jersey-based licensed esthetician. "This product will soften the hair to either remove it at the surface or soften it enough to remove it from the root," she explains. For best results and to prevent any burns or irritation, she stresses the importance of closely following the directions for application. "You can test it on parts of the body that don't show just in case there's a reaction," suggests Condon. "Most prefer behind the ear, the back of the neck, thigh, or even the inside of the wrist." Stop using it immediately if you develop itching, raw or burned skin, or red bumps (cortisone cream can help soothe skin irritation). Condon also recommends avoiding this product if you take prescription acne medications, including Retin-A, because the combo could make your skin hypersensitive and potentially lead to irritation.

Condon isn't the only skincare expert partial to this facial hair remover. New York- and New Jersey-based board-certified dermatologist Dr. Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD, also recommends it. She says: "This nourishing facial hair remover can be applied to the face, including the upper lip, chin, and cheeks, to help remove hairs, including those that are fine to coarse." And since it's made with sweet almond oil, she says it's less likely to cause irritation than other hair removal options. A gentle formula is important when choosing a hair removal product, whether for the face or body, like Shape's 2023 Skin Awards winner Flamingo Body Hair Removal Cream.

Shape's testers found that the Nair Hair Remover Moisturizing Face Cream specifically worked wonders on areas with thick hair. Requiring about ten to 15 minutes of processing time and a few swipes to fully remove the product, this cream left those with notably thicker hair with hairless, ridiculously smooth skin. Be sure not to let this product overprocess if you don't want any irritation.

Size: 2 oz | Method: Cream

Shape / Jaclyn Mastropasqua

Built-in light for good visibility

Safety guard helps protect skin

Not as sharp as other devices

The Finishing Touch Flawless Dermaplane Glo Lighted Facial Exfoliator is one of Amazon's best-selling personal microdermabrasion devices for improving skin tone and texture for a reason. It boasts a built-in light feature that quickly illuminates the areas you're working on, similar to how the process would go down in a professional setting. What's more? The angled head and safety guard not only seamlessly remove unwanted hair but also protect your skin in the process.

Shape editors love this tool for its dermaplaning abilities, not only because it provides your skin with the smooth, glowy finish that so many desire but also because it is a highly cost-efficient way to perform an effective dermaplaning job. Typically, these in-office treatments cost a fortune, but the six replacement heads that come with the Finishing Touch Flawless Dermaplaner cost only $15, putting each DIY treatment at about $2.30 — a major distinction from the hundreds you would spend on a single session in a pro's office.

Size: Handheld | Method: Dermaplaning Tool

Convenient for on-the-go use

Good value

Tools need to be cleaned after each use or tossed

While testing the Kitsch Dermaplaning Tool at a 45-degree angle, Shape's testers found that the angled facial razors were gentle and effective. Considering the budget-friendly price point, they were pleasantly surprised at how well the tool worked to remove unwanted facial hair. The blade on this lightweight tool is sharp enough to get the job done, providing minimal effort to ensure that everything from peach fuzz to sporadic eyebrow hairs is removed, limiting the potential for nicks and sensitivities.

Testers did note that if they were to change anything about the product, they would desire a thinner handle. Thinner handles would make the tools more flexible, making it easier to navigate the face's natural contours. They also stress that despite these tools coming with a protective sheath (making them seem endlessly reusable), they are meant to be disposable and should be treated as such.

Size: 7.75 in | Method: Manual Dermaplaning Tool

Vibrates to make peach fuzz stand on end for easy removal

Ergonomic design

Easy to maneuver across contours

Upfront cost is high at $199 for the device and only five single-use blades

Restock blades start at $29

Designed with a wide head and 14,000 sonic vibrations per minute, this luxury dermaplaning tool is as good as it gets. When testing the Dermaflash Luxe+, Shape's testers found that the ergonomic device was easy to maneuver across the contours of their faces so long as they prepped their skin as directed, operated the device at a 45-degree angle, held their skin taut, and applied just enough pressure. They emphasize the necessity of using the correct pressure — too little pressure made testers initially believe nothing was happening. Once they hit that sweet spot, though, their peach fuzz buzzed off with ease. With about a once-a-week use of the Dermaflash+, that smooth facial finish became the new norm for testers' skin.

Ridding the device of one blade and inserting another can be a learning process, so ensure you thoroughly read the instructions when the time comes and take your time with the process to prevent wasting blades. Also, note it's normal to experience a little redness with this device, so don't get alarmed if this happens to you. To keep your flush at bay, apply a soothing moisturizer immediately post-use.

Size: Handheld | Method: Dermaplaning Tool

Removes hair in 8 minutes

Smooths skin

Results last weeks

Can create a tingly sensation

While Shape's testers tried out the GiGi Hair Removal Cream, it quickly became clear why the product had become a TikTok sensation with over 15 billion views surrounding discussion of its effectiveness. The easy-to-distribute hair removal cream removes hair entirely within eight minutes without causing redness or irritation. When perusing the ingredients list, this makes sense: cucumber and honey in the formula provide soothing and reparative benefits that help prevent further irritation from hair removal products like this one. Beyond its fast processing time, testers raved about how easily this cream smoothed their skin and drastically slowed hair regrowth. With these results, it's no wonder the recommended once-every-few-weeks application noticeably improves skin softness from lack of facial hair.

However, despite its sensitive skin-approved ingredients, this formula can trigger a slight tingling sensation. While this typically doesn't call for an alarm, Shape editors suggest you steer clear of this product if you know that it will bug you even temporarily.

Size: 1 oz. | Method: Hair Removal Cream

User-friendly epilator

Smart sensor helps guide pressure

May cause stinging

"The Braun Silk-épil is great in that it can be used wet or dry — it's completely waterproof," says board-certified dermatologist Hadley King, M.D. It's designed to vibrate to help decrease and distract from any discomfort (much like lasers use cool blasts of air to do the same thing). "The wider head removes more hair with each stroke, and it pivots to accommodate body curves more easily," she adds. Another bonus that marks this as a favorite for Dr. King? "The newer models also have a smart sensor that guides how much pressure to apply," she mentions, proving how high-tech and beneficial this tool is — it's no wonder this is one of the best epilators on the market.

For those who don't know, epilators are electrical devices that remove hair by the root, similar to waxing, says Dr. Fromowitz. He adds: "As long as you follow their instructions, they're safe for home use"— a helpful note if you're worried about DIY hair removal with a more intense tool. Keep in mind that the process does sting a bit, something that can be expected for most facial hair removal techniques outside of shaving with a razor. However, this epilator doesn't rip up the top layer of skin as waxing does, and it can be used on much shorter strands of hair (just half a millimeter), unlike with wax.

Size: Handheld | Method: Epilator

Wax strips are flexible and easy to use

Comes with wipes to remove excess wax and a calming serum

Results last 28 days

Recommended to avoid retinol products two to five days before waxing

If you prefer waxing above all facial hair removal methods, at the very least, try the Athena Club Wax Strip Kit for Face. While testing these strips, Shape's testers found these to be the most helpful when used quickly, requiring them to get past the initial mental block. Wax strips are undeniably uncomfortable, but the results usually make the temporary pain worth it. The Athena Club Wax Strip Kit proved to be among the most comfortable wax strips testers tried — it helps that the kit comes with wipes to remove excess wax residue and a calming serum to mitigate any post-pull pain.

Like any wax, the Athena Club Wax Strip Kit will take some time to get used to. Fortunately for you (and Shape's testers), the wax pulls hairs from deep down, which prevents them from growing back as quickly, so the process proves its worth after every slightly-painful use.

Size: 3.5” x 1.38” | Method: Wax Strips

All-natural sugar wax

Works on both face and body

Wax hardens quickly

The Moom Organic Hair Removal utilizes the power of wax to remove pesky hairs, boasting an all-natural, honey-like formula made from cane sugar extract, lemon juice, tea tree oil, and chamomile tea. Considering the gentleness of these ingredients — Shape particularly loves the inclusion of tea tree oil and chamomile tea given their soothing, pain-relieving capabilities — this wax can be used on your face and body, helping you get more bang for your buck.

If you're hesitant to use sugar wax at home, know that these wax types tend to offer a more gentle approach to hair removal. "The key is to follow the directions carefully," says Dr. Fromowitz, who stresses this advice to yield the best results. Namely, be very careful about temperature to avoid burns.

Size: 12 oz | Method: Sugar Wax

More affordable than monthly waxes

Long-lasting results

Learning curve to perfecting the application and removal process

If you're partial to traditional hard waxes after years of booking in-salon waxing appointments, consider learning how to do this at home with the Bliss Poetic Waxing Straight-From-The-Spa Hair Removal Kit. The Shape team prefers this kit over others because of its low-temperature, fast-hardening wax that has a bright blue hue — perfect for keeping track of every nook and cranny on your face the wax is applied to. Plus, the formula features chamomile for that extra-soothing post-wax feel — Shape is a fan of anything that may help reduce the inevitable post-pull pain.

Despite all the good intentions, Shape's testers experienced discomfort with the Bliss Poetic Waxing Kit during the hair removal process. However, this is rarely something you can avoid when using hard wax. Testers did note that while first attempting to use this kit, the hard wax didn't pull off in one fell swoop, meaning more pulls, more pain, and more of a mess overall. Once they got the hang of pulling it off, though, they found that their facial hair stayed at bay for longer durations, making it worth the previous struggle.

Size: 1 fl oz | Method: Hard Wax

Small pen makes it easy to apply to small areas

Effective for brow and upper lip touch-ups

Only comes with 10 strips

When testing Nads Hair Removal Precision Eyebrow Wax Wand, Shape's team of testers understood why it went viral on TikTok. The innovative pen design offers an easy way to apply wax to small areas of skin, whether you want to focus on your brows, upper lip, or any other tight patches where stubborn hairs grow. Within just a few minutes of application and a quick pull of the included cotton strips, the wax unearthed brow hairs and peach fuzz between brows to reveal perfectly sculpted arches. Suffice to say, we’re big fans.

Testers found that a thin layer of wax was plenty to remove unwanted facial hair adequately, and if they accidentally over-applied the product, they could easily wash it off with soap and water before it had a chance to process. They note how crucial it is to work fast, though, when using this product, as the wax hardens quickly.

Size: 6 g | Method: Wax

Shape / Chelsea Dinterman

Ergonomic design

Angled head is designed to work safely with contours of face

Each blade is single-use

"If you're going to use a razor on your face, I like one that contours to the shape of your face, making it less likely to cause bleeding and infection," says New York-based dermatologist Dr. Nava Greenfield, MD. This drugstore-accessible, ultra-popular option from Schick fits the bill with its ergonomic design. When testing the Schick Hydro Silk Touch-Up Exfoliating Dermaplaning Tool, Shape's testers found that short, steady strokes provided the best results, meaning they didn't have to perform any second strokes or touch-ups until two to three weeks after the initial removal process. The dermaplaner's included microguards promise a nick- and irritation-free shave that still properly removes hair.

Shape likes how these razors come in a budget-friendly three-pack, ensuring you get a true bang for your buck when purchasing disposable razors.

Size: Handheld | Method: Dermaplaning Tool

Compact and travel-friendly

Convenient to use

Doesn't remove hair at root so stubble is possible

The Gillette Venus Mini Facial Hair Remover is only slightly larger than a tube of lipstick, yet proves itself as a powerhouse product for buzzing off unwanted facial hair. When trying Gillette Venus' Mini Facial Hair Remover, Shape's testers loved this teeny tool's unbeatable convenience. With a pinpoint spotlight to help guide the way, a compact size, and a design that promotes a gentle, sensitivities-free shave, it shockingly worked wonders to eliminate peach fuzz on testers' skin.

One thing to remember here: This is a shaver. Unlike wax, it will not remove hair at the root. As such, you may feel stubble from the blunt edges of recently trimmed facial hairs after the initial shaving session. That said, right after shaving, the testers' skin felt smooth to the touch.

Size: N/A | Method: Electric Shaver

Comb attachments help to tailor trim

Offers smooth margins for brows

Trims but doesn't fully remove hair

While using a battery-operated trimmer may initially feel intimidating, Shape can attest that the rounded edges of the tool’s blade make it a nearly effortless feat. Although the blade doesn’t pull brow hairs out at the root, it gets close enough to the skin to offer smooth margins and quick collusion for unruly arches, visible peach fuzz, and other delicate hair situations. Due to the similarities between this product and a proper razor (meaning it offers more superficial hair removal than waxes), your brows may require frequent touch-ups to maintain those preferred, stray-hair-free results. Shape's testers found that revisiting the device once a week did the trick.

Size: 6.1 inches | Method: Electric Trimmer

Precise tweezers

Eight color options

Somewhat sharp, so be careful not to grab skin along with hairs

For minor hair-removal jobs, nothing completes the task as well as a solid pair of tweezers. Shape editors prefer this Tweezer Guru pair to pluck a few hairs with unbeatable precision, thanks to the strong, wide grip for easy grasping and sharp angled tips for seamless removal. The tips also boast a hypoallergenic stainless steel construction that fares well when wiped down with alcohol, which is the suggested cleaning method to prevent the transfer of bacteria. Plus, while these six-dollar tweezers already feel like a bargain, there's an option to grab a two-pack to keep a pair in your medicine cabinet and one in your purse for touch-ups on-the-go — you never know when you need to snag a rogue hair.

Size: Handheld | Method: Tweezers

When dermaplaning, you do not remove the hair from the root like you would with alternative options like waxing or tweezing. This means dermaplaning requires more frequent touch-ups, which could be time-consuming for anyone desiring a low-maintenance hair removal routine. Also, although dermaplaning may be a better option for those with sensitive skin, it could result in painful nicks and irritation if misused. This is especially true when dermaplaning over areas with active breakouts, so avoiding those areas when shaving your face is crucial.

There is no "better" option when considering waxing or dermaplaning your face, but rather it boils down to your desired results. If you prefer to deal with hair removal as little as possible, waxing offers a longer-lasting result because it removes hair from the root — you just have to endure a more painful process for that smooth skin at the end. If you're okay with extra weekly maintenance and prefer to avoid any pain when removing hair, dermaplaning is a fabulous alternative.

Rebecca Norris is a freelance writer with over eight years of experience in the beauty industry. She's well-versed in the latest and greatest product launches, as well as the most alluring beauty trends and compelling ingredients on the market. For this story, she scoured the testing results sheets for insights and consulted several dermatologists and one aesthetician about facial hair removal products to gain expert insight and recommendations.

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