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There are tons of different facial hair removal methods for women, including laser hair removal, waxing, and epilators. I have tried them all, including electric razors and dermaplaning tools. As WH’s new beauty editor (woo!), I've sugared my face and body and interviewed dozens of derms about preventing dreaded razor bumps and unsightly ingrown hairs. Some facial hair removal methods are only a few minutes, while others can be pretty painful but require minimal upkeep. Finding the right method or combination of methods that work for your needs might take a few tries, but I've got you covered with my beauty editor-vetted recommendations.
Best Facial Hair Removal Tools
Best Dermaplaning Device
Dermaflash Luxe+ DeviceRead more
Best Shaver
Philips Beauty Series 5000 Electric Shaver and Personal GroomerRead more
What To Consider
Your hair color, skin color, and hair thickness helps determine your best facial hair removal method, says dermatologist Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD. Also be real about your pain tolerance and bandwidth because the best method for removing facial hair is the one you'll consistently use to maintain smooth results. Also, think about investing in an electric hair removal device to speed up your primping routine and, of course, stick to your budget. Our suggestions start at just $10.
Types Of Hair Removal Tools
Women's Razors
These are tried-and-true hair removal tools that are cheap, readily accessible, and provide instant results. Your best bet is to use a razor with a non-slip ergonomic handle to keep your shave steady. I also like razors featuring a lubricating strip to help prevent irritation. Depending on how fast your facial hair regrows, you might need to shave daily or every few days, but they're pain-free. Remember to use shaving cream and gently run the blade in the opposite direction of hair growth. There are also manual and electric razors, but I'll discuss that more in the next section.
Dermaplaning Tools
They feature surgical blades to remove dead skin cells and peach fuzz from your face. These devices also have long handles and sturdy grips to prevent accidental cuts. Because dermaplaning sloughs off dead skin cells, this hair removal tool provides the smoothest makeup application.
This method helps promote cell turnover and collagen production plus minimizes dark spots and uneven skin texture, dermatologist Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, MD, told WH. "When your skin is hairless and buildup-free, it looks super toned and bright," Dr. Shirazi said.
Since dermaplaning cuts the hairs at the top layer of skin, they'll grow back quicker than laser hair removal or waxing, says Dr. Murphy-Rose. So be ready to use this technique 1-4 times monthly, depending on how fast your hair regrows.
Hair Removal Creams
These creams typically contain ingredients like eflornithine, calcium hydroxide, calcium thioglycolate, sodium hydroxide, and sodium thioglycolate to dissolve keratin bond structures of strands, making them pain-free alternatives to tweezing, waxing and sugaring. Let the cream sit for a few minutes, then wipe it away to reveal smoother skin. If your skin is super sensitive, you could leave it on for 1-3 minutes and then shave it off in warm water, dermatologist Dr. S. Manjula Jegasothy, MD, previously told us. Hair will begin to grow back within a few days, so you're looking at a low-key commitment.
Tweezers
These are best for removing hair from a small area of the face, like your eyebrows, chin, and upper lip. TBH, tweezing has mild to moderate discomfort since you're plucking hairs from the root. On a scale of 1—10, I'd rank the pain level from 4—6. Since I have sensitive eyes that easily water, I stay away from tweezing my brows, but I found plucking a rogue chin hair pretty mild. Upkeep depends on how fast your hair grows back. Some women want to pluck every few days, while others can stretch their tweezing schedule to every few weeks.
Waxing
This is my go-to hair removal method because of the low upkeep. I can easily go 4-6 weeks between my sessions, but TBH, I'll stretch it to every 8 weeks. It is relatively painful since it involves simultaneously removing dozens of hairs from the root, but it's a quick process and the results last longer than dermaplaning or shaving.I've been waxing for years and find the pain has become quite tolerable. On a scale of 1—10, waxing my face and underarms ranges from 2—3 and 4—6 elsewhere on my body, with the most painful spots being the back of my legs and bikini area. Sugaring It is similar to waxing but less painful. I've had some uncomfy waxes that stung my sensitive skin, but sugaring is noticeably milder. Ingredients will vary among brands, but there is almost always a mix of sugar, water, and lemon. The golden paste is molded onto your skin where you'd like to remove hair, and you'll gently remove it with a fast flicking technique like waxing.
Epilators
They look more like chunky electric razors but feature tweezer-like prongs that pluck hairs from the roots. Repeated use can help slow down hair growth, and strands will be finer when they regrow, dermatologist Dr. Hadley King, MD, recently told WH. Because this method is relatively gentle, Dr. King suggests epilators for anyone who isn't a good fit for laser hair removal or has sensitive skin.
Laser Hair Removal Devices
They are epic when you have dark hair and a fair to medium complexion; particularly those with thick, coarse and unruly dark chin, upper lip, and sideburn hair. "This combination of hair color and skin tone ensures that the hairs alone are absorbing the majority of the laser energy," dermatologist Dr. Rachel Nazarian, MD, recently told WH.
But if you're a four or deeper on the Fitzpatrick Scale like me, you should skip using at-home laser hair removal devices. "You want to receive the right treatment that does not harm your skin," dermatologist Dr. Jeanine Downie, MD, previously told WH.
They work by slowing hair growth and reducing strand thickness by using highly concentrated light to penetrate hair follicles and inhibit future hair growth. While laser hair removal isn't exactly permanent, it can effectively slow hair growth.While the upfront cost is a tad of a jumpscare, these devices typically contain about 200,000 flashes, which is equivalent to 780 at-home treatments, says Dr. Nazarian. FWIW, I tracked down the best laser hair removal deals, and our team's beloved Braun is discounted by $100. So run, don't work over to Amazon before this fleeting deal disappears.
Pricing Of Manual Versus Electric Hair Removal Methods
Dermaplaning tools and razors are either manual or electric powered by batteries or a USB or USB-C cable.
When you pick electric devices like the Dermaflash, you'll be spending around $200, while manual tools, including hair removal creams and razors are much cheaper. With prices ranging from $150-$600, epilators and laser hair removal devices are definite investments, but still cost less than a series of professional sessions. Some of these splurge-worthy devices also have smart capabilities like Bluetooth, smartphone app features, and even calendar reminders to remove facial hair.
Ultimately, opt for the electric devices if you want a fast and powerful tool that lasts for years and don't mind the upfront cost. Choose a manual tool if you would rather save the cash for other beauty products, like an LED face mask or a red light therapy device for hair growth.
How We Chose
Keeping the above guidelines in mind—type, cost, and manual versus electric devices—I carefully researched dozens of at-home facial hair removal tools. After settling on 12 contenders, I spent several months testing and I was only truly impressed by a handful of picks. I evaluated their ease of use, how often I needed to remove hair, and how seamless they were to incorporate into my routine. I also consulted dermatologists and associate commerce and editor Lily Wohlner, about her no-fail recommendations to share the best facial hair removal methods for women worth using in 2025.
Pros
- Multiple attachments for the face and body
- Connects to WiFi
- There is a smartphone app to control your device
- Includes a travel vanity case
Yes, this is the priciest recommendation, but it's totally worth the splurge. Braun works in just one treatment session and boasts smart features that justify the added cost and our top spot. The results are immediate, long-lasting, and includes three attachments for the face, bikini line, and rest of the body.
Skin i·expert is Braun’s only laser made with a proprietary SensoAdapt technology that scans your skin tone and automatically adjusts the light intensity for an effective and safer hair removal experience. The software is controlled with the Braun smartphone app. It also sends alerts when you missed a spot, used the wrong device head, applied too much pressure, or used it too quickly.
Wohlner relies on this device every few weeks to remove her self-described "super coarse hair." Since laser hair removal isn't permanent, some hairs will still pop up. However, they grow back slower, which is a major win for Wohlner.
Laser hair removal also gets a pretty bad rep for being painful. While the Braun isn't equipped with any cooling sensation to relieve discomfort, the pain is relatively mild. "I felt a little zippiness here and there, but nothing I could actually describe as painful—more like a super quick, tiny pinch," says Wohlner.
As for the results, they were solid. Wohlner didn't have to shave her hair for weeks after the first treatment, and three sessions later, her hair regrowth slowed down. The upfront cost is pricey, but it'll save you from purchasing expensive pro-grade appointments and allow you to remove hair whenever and wherever you choose.
Read More: Electrolysis Versus Laser Hair Removal
Best Dermaplaning Device
Dermaflash Luxe+ Device
$199 at Women's Health Shop$199 at Amazon$290 at Walmart
Pros
- Great for dermaplaning beginners
- Leaves your skin looking smooth and bright
Cons
- The cost of replacement blades can add up
The idea of gliding a sharp razor across my face was initially intimidating, but I haven't scratched myself since using the Dermaflash. Unlike cheaper options with dull blades, the Dermaflash provides the most professional-grade shave I've ever experienced while testing dozens of dermaplaning tools. The sharp blade features proprietary Microfine Edges, which are tiny corrugations that gets super close to my face without any discomfort.
Most dermaplaning tools only have simple blades, but Dermaflash features a gentle pulsing technology that further removes peach fuzz and dead skin cells instantly and safely, making it handy for beginners and seasoned dermaplaning users alike. My results rival pro treatments without the hassle of going to a spa and without the excessive upkeep cost. This tool easily glides across my face, which would normally be a challenge with cheaper, manual dermaplaning tools. Since using this device, I noticed my face cream sinks in quickly, and my foundation looks even more natural.
I try to use this tool every two weeks to maintain my smooth results, but TBH, I use it monthly, which is better for my wallet. The brand advises swapping out the blade after every use for the smoothest results, so anything to stretch my beauty budget is always a win. FWIW: Even a monthly treatment prevents my makeup from pilling, so this tool will remain a consistent part of my routine.
| Size | One size (4 blades) |
|---|---|
| Face Area | All |
| Method | Dermaplaning |
| Permanence | 1-2 weeks |
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Best Shaver
Philips Beauty Series 5000 Electric Shaver and Personal Groomer
$20 at Women's Health Shop$20 at Amazon$20 at Target
Pros
- Includes a built-in mirror
- Hypoallergenic head
Cons
- Don't forget to clean after each use
While I don't mind using a traditional manual razor or dermaplaning, it's worth spending a little extra on this electric device, says Wohlner. This Phillips electric razor has a large head and self-sharpening blade to rapidly remove facial hair. Wohlner's been using this facial hair removal tool for hairs and considers it the most effective method for eliminating stubborn upper lip and chin hairs. "While it's too big to remove hair on my brows, it's awesome for those larger areas of the face when you're short on time and want to look smooth and stubble-free," she says.
Many other tools can irritate, especially around the upper lip area, which occasionally turns into bumps. This shaver has a hypoallergenic stainless steel head that doesn’t irritate sensitive skin, quickly removing unwanted hair in a single pass without causing pain or discomfort. This device keeps Wohlner's face smooth, and it always glides over the skin effortlessly without leaving it red and raw. It even comes with a built-in mirror in the cap to touch-up on the go.
Pro tip: The large shaver head does tend to get clogged after a few uses, which can be prevented if you wipe it down with alcohol after every use. Taking care of your device will ensure you get the closest shave and that it lasts for years.
| Size | One size |
|---|---|
| Face Area | Chin and upper lip |
| Method | Epilator |
| Permanence | 2-3 weeks |
Best Value
Finishing Touch Flawless Facial Hair Remover
Now 19% Off
Pros
- Great for targeted areas
- Doesn't require any pinchng or pulling of the skin
Cons
- Hair grows back quickly
Finishing Touch is the ideal facial hair removal tool for budget-conscious shoppers, and I wish I ordered mine sooner. I can achieve similar results using razors three times the price. The Flawless device is also so much prettier than boring razors. The rose gold hair remover is rather discreet and looks similar to regular lipstick. It features a small, circular floating head that contours along the curves of my face, while the self-sharpening blade ensures I have the smoothest trim. Plus, unlike other razors, this one has a built-in LED ring light to illuminate hairs I wouldn't usually see in my bathroom.
This device works great if you have sensitive skin that's easily irritated. It's gentle enough to use daily, and I love keeping mine on hand at the office to check my face before walking into a meeting. It features a self-sharpening blade for precise trimming without irritating skin. I like this device so much that if Flawless made a larger size then it would definitely replace my go-to Billie razor that I've been using for years.
The only caveat is Flawless is a razor, so it cuts hair at the top layer of skin, meaning hair will grow back relatively fast. So, as long as you don't mind regular trims, this is an epic choice.
| Size | One size |
|---|---|
| Face Area | All |
| Method | Electric face razor |
| Permanence | 1-2 weeks |
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Pros
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Long-lasting results
Cons
- Nailing down the technique is a little tricky
Sugaring is epic because the paste only sticks to the hair, not the skin. It's far less painful than waxing and easier to apply.
I've previously only done professional sugaring, but the at-home process is the same. After heating the roller in the microwave, I apply the stick directly to the area I want sugared, lay down a strip, and pull it off in the opposite direction of the hair growth. The fabric strips are a little big to use on my face, especially on the chin or upper lip, but I can cut them in half, and they work perfectly.
Most sugaring wax is packaged in a tub that can tip over and cause a huge, sticky mess. Schick comes in a deodorant-like stick that easily rolls onto my skin. I like to warm the stick up in the microwave in 5-second increments until the paste has a honey-like consistency. I also need a light layer of sugaring wax to achieve the same results as other alternatives, meaning my roller can last for a few months.
I initially missed a few hairs, so I had to follow up with a fresh swipe of sugaring paste. With some practice, my technique improved over time, and soon enough, it only took me a few minutes to wax the lower half of my face. At just $13 a wand, this at-home technique is much cheaper than going to a salon where I'd easily pay double the price, and for that alone, I'll continue using this kit.
| Size | 5.1 oz |
|---|---|
| Face Area | Lower face |
| Method | Sugaring |
| Permanence | 2-3 weeks |
Pros
- Works in just 4 minutes
- Includes an after-care balm
Cons
- Skip if you use a retinoid
This hair removal cream isn't the Nair you grew up on. It's a prescription-strength cream specifically formulated to slow hair growth on the face. The key ingredients include eflornithine (6%), which blocks the enzyme ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) that stimulates hair growth. Each batch is compounded together shortly before shipping, ensuring maximum potency .
I've tried many hair removal creams, which sometimes cause redness and irritation, so I was worried Musely would be a problem. Musely provides instant hair-free results, and I noticed my regrowth is slower and my skin remains smoother with regular use, compared to other creams I’ve tried. It has a light tingling sensation, letting me know the cream is working. Unlike cheaper drugstore alternatives, Musely hasn't irritated my skin. It also doesn't have a super aggressive chemical smell like other alternatives I tested, and that alone is a win in my book.
The major downside of hair removal creams, including Musely, is that I have to adjust when I use my tretinoin prescription around hair removal days. After Musely hair removal, I typically wait a few days before safely applying my tretinoin cream. Otherwise, I might experience redness, irritation, and over-exfoliate my skin. Musely is a worthwhile product, but I prefer dermaplaning or shaving because I value acne-free skin over a fast-acting, pain-free hair removal process.
| Size | 2 oz. |
|---|---|
| Face Area | All |
| Method | Cream |
| Permanence | 6-8 weeks |
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Meet The Experts
- Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist at the Laser & Skin Surgery Center of New York.Dr.
- Dr. Jeanine Downie, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Montclair, NJ.
- Dr. Hadley King, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York.
- Dr. Azadeh Shirazi, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in La Jolla, Calif.
- Dr. Rachel Nazarian, MD, FAAD is a board-certified dermatologist in New York.
Are at-home laser hair removal devices effective on dark skin?
Many at-home devices can’t distinguish between darker complexions and dark hair, dermatologist Dr. Nazarian previously told WH. Melanin-rich skin is at a higher risk of their skin absorbing laser hair and burning, said Dr. Nazarian. My advice: Either opt for a different alternative on this list or book an appointment with your dermatologist for specific guidance on the best laser hair removal treatment plan for you.
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Shop Other Hair Removal Devices We Love
Best At-Home Laser Hair Removal Devices | Best Dermaplaning Devices | Best Face Razors for Women | Best Hair Removal Creams | Best At-Home Waxing Kits
Nicole Saunders
Beauty Editor
Nicole Saunders is the beauty editor at Best Products with over eight years of experience researching, writing, and editing lifestyle content. She specializes in breaking down complicated topics, like high-frequency wands and microcurrent devices, into easy-to-understand guides. Saunders takes great pride in heavily researching and testing featured beauty products, — such as hairdryers and foundations — on our site, and spotlights her all-time seasonal favorites in her quarterly column Best New Beauty. And she tests quite literally thousands of launches for our Best New Beauty Awards package. You can follow her on Instagram to stay in the loop on her product testing adventures.
