For the record: Facial hair on women is very common, completely natural, and can be triggered by certain medications or hormonal changes—and you shouldn’t feel like you need to do anything about it. But if you do choose to remove it, we’re here to help.
Sure, you can head to a skincare professional for electrolysis or laser treatments, but a much more affordable and less time-consuming option is to use at-home products.
With so many hair removal creams, waxes, and tools available, how do you find the best one for your skin? “The key is to select a well-known brand, and to proceed with caution,” says Jeffrey Fromowitz, M.D., a dermatologist based in Boca Raton, Florida.
“If you’re on the more sensitive side, look for a formula that is specifically [made] for sensitive skin,” says Lora Condon, a licensed esthetician based in East Westfield, New Jersey. “You can test it on parts of the body that don’t show just in case there’s a reaction. Most prefer behind the ear, the back of the neck, thigh, or even the inside the wrist.” (Stop using it immediately if you develop itching, raw or burned skin, or red bumps.)
If you prefer an at-home machine to remove facial hair, opt for one that’s safe for all skin types—read the reviews and product descriptions carefully before making your decision.
“I recommend using a few different methods to slow down or eradicate hair growth because everyone’s hair grows differently based on their body type,” says Condon. “Some people will respond better to laser, some to hair retarding creams, some to depilatory creams. Using all three can have much better and longer-lasting hair-free results.”
Here, we’ve rounded up the 11 best facial hair removal products for women—including top-rated creams suited to a variety of skin types and hair removal devices like epilators—for smooth, hair-free skin on your face. Take your pick and say goodbye to those dreaded waxing appointments for good.
