In this guide 6 sections
Facial hair is completely normal, and most women remove it from the upper lip, chin, cheeks or forehead now and then. The best method depends on how fine your hair is, how sensitive your skin is, and how long you want the result to last.
Facial hair removal methods compared
| Method | Pain | Lasts | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Facial hair remover (trimmer) | None | A few days | Quick touch-ups, sensitive skin |
| Facial razor | None | A few days | Peach fuzz, brows |
| Threading tool | Short sting | 2–3 weeks | Upper lip, forehead |
| Electric thread epilator | Short sting | 2–3 weeks | Upper lip, chin, cheeks |
| Hard wax | Short sting | 3–4 weeks | Upper lip, chin |
| Bleach / creams | None, can irritate | Varies | Not our first choice for the face |
1. Painless: a facial hair remover
A lipstick-size 2-in-1 facial hair remover trims fine hair close to the skin in a minute, with a light to show the fine hairs and an eyebrow head for tidying brows. It is the easiest place to start. Trimming does not make hair thicker.
2. From the root: threading at home
A threading tool uses a spring to copy parlour threading — no battery needed. The Kemei KM-2777 does the twisting for you with a real cotton thread. Both last 2–3 weeks. Read threading machine vs parlour threading.
3. Longest-lasting: hard wax
Hard wax melted in a pot wax heater grips short facial hair and lifts it from the root without strips. Always test the temperature on your wrist first.
A simple facial routine
- Wash and dry your face; no cream or oil.
- Use good light — a window or the built-in light.
- Stretch the skin (press your tongue behind the upper lip).
- Trim in small circles, or thread in small sections.
- Finish with aloe gel; skip makeup for an hour if red.
Safety and when to see a doctor
- Never remove hair over moles, pimples, cuts or irritated skin.
- Clean tools after every use and do not share them.
- Sudden, heavy new facial hair — especially with irregular periods — can have a hormonal cause such as PCOS. Please see a doctor.
Browse all facial hair removers, or read upper lip & chin hair removal.
