How to Get Rid of Product Buildup on Hair
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Hair removal is a regular part of many women's beauty regimes, and finding the best hair removal method that suits your needs will save you essential time during the busy week (as well as regular trips to a beauty salon). No matter which body hair area you're treating – legs, underarms, bikini-line or facial hair – there are many solutions to choose from to make de-fuzzing a smooth, (mostly) pain-free process.
Here, we'll go through the different options, from the likes of creams and waxing to epilators, electric shavers and IPL machines. We'll bring you the top-scoring products along the way, which have been thoroughly tested, both by our reader panels and in the GHI lab.
Depilatory cream
Ideal for anyone looking for a gentle way to remove hair, depilatory cream works by using high pH chemicals to dissolve and remove hair at the skin's surface, so you can effectively wipe it away. This method is ideal for anyone looking for painless, at-home results. But like with a razor, you'll need to keep using the cream on a regular basis, as the hair grows back relatively quickly. Creams can be messy and often leave a few hairs or stubble following treatment.
In the past, many depilatory creams had a rather off-putting smell, but the latest formulas are more pleasant to use. Cream is quick and easy to apply, but always read instructions before use and carry out a patch test first to make sure you are not allergic to the product. You can buy area-specific creams, so don't use body formulas on your face and never leave it on for longer than specified.
Epilating
How do epilators work?
Epilators are small hand-held gadgets fitted with rotating blades or close-grip tweezers, that can lift and remove hair as fine as 0.5mm from the root. Epilating can result in a really smooth finish, which may last for weeks. Some models are for wet and dry use and come with attachments for use on your legs, bikini line, underarms and face.
Fans of epilators love the fact you can enjoy all the good points of waxing –slow regrowth and no unsightly stubble – without all the fiddle and mess. However, it can be uncomfortable when treating sensitive areas – some epilators now come with a form of pain reducer with a special fixture you pop into the freezer several hours before use, to numb the area being treated.
With epilation, the hairs are pulled from the root so when the hair grows back, the tip tends to be tapered which results in it having a finer appearance. Used frequently, you will gradually see a reduction in hair regrowth over time and hairs becoming weaker as well as a reduction in the number of in-growing hairs. The pain may also reduce as the hairs become weaker over time.
Features to look out for if you're buying an epilator
When choosing your epilator, consider the areas you want to treat. The models on our list come with different attachments, which can often include:
Exfoliation brushes: For the face or body to remove dead skin cells, and rejuvenate skin and also help to reduce the chance of ingrown hairs.
Shaver head: For when you want to revert to shaving.
Trimmer head: One of these will allow you to shorten the length of hair rather than fully removing it.
Bikini trimmer: This is a trimmer head that is specifically for the bikini area. Generally, it will have a narrower applicator head to allow better precision for the bikini line. Standard trimmer heads tend to be wider than bikini, although standard heads can be used in the bikini area if you're extra-cautious.
Skin precision cap: These attach on top of either an epilator or shaver head to refine the area you're treating. Epilators may come with caps to treat different body parts – so one for narrow areas, such as the face and bikini, or large body attachments, which will help you treat a larger surface area in one go.
Massage pads: Used on the face or body to massage targeted areas to improve blood circulation and helps to visibly improve skin appearance.
Cleaning brush: This is a small brush used to clean the applicator heads of any stray hairs left after use.
Do you need an epilator that is travel-friendly?
Then look for a model not reliant on a mains plug source, and with that in mind, would you look to use it in the shower? If so, then you'll need one that says it is safe to use wet and dry.
How we test epilators
We looked at how effective (and painful) the devices were at removing hair, how easy they were to control, how simple the process was. Our testers were given a choice to trial it in either wet and/or dry conditions, they were provided all attachments that came with the device, so that they had the option of using it on specific or all areas of the body including the face.
They tested for a period of 12 weeks and were asked for feedback on design of device, ease of set up, ease of control and in use, as well as pain tolerance. They feedback on different times points: 4, 8 and 12 weeks to assess the hair regrowth over time (a slower hair regrowth would be expected over the trial period with regular use) and observed any ingrown hairs over the trial period.
The GHI's top 5 epilators
Best epilator
Silk-Epil 9561 Wet & Dry Epilator
Braun amazon.co.uk
£122.98
While it isn't the latest model in Braun's most feature-heavy line (the series 9), it's our highest-rated epilator. You get five heads with this lightweight, two-speed model. There's a light so you can see the finest hairs and a head if you want to revert to shaving. As it's cordless and waterproof, you can use it in the shower, and we found it's as good on dry and wet skin. As for the ouch-factor, most said it was tolerable, but some found it painful on the underarms and bikini line. One common gripe: testers wanted more detailed instructions.
Runner-up
Silk-Epil 5-5780
Braun amazon.co.uk
£42.99
This corded epilator isn't as wide as the winning model, but it has the same pivoting head, two-speed function and integrated light. You also get the same range of attachments, and all our testers rated the results. As with our winner, all found it more effective than their usual hair-removal method, reporting that they found pain levels tolerable (except on underarms). This one is a great buy if you don't mind not being able to use it in the shower.
Silk-épil 9 9/980 SkinSpa SensoSmart Epilator
Braun amazon.co.uk
£90.77
This is Braun's most advanced epilator, coming with some additional attachments to the others on this list. Those include a bikini trimmer and exfoliating brushes. It gets its name from the "smart" sensor function. The brand says it helps you apply the right amount of pressure to remove hair (a red light will come on if you're pushing too hard). You can use it in the shower and our panel found it very effective at immediate hair removal. They noticed a reduction in hair re-growth over the testing period. And they appreciated the brushes, saying they helped with ingrown hairs.
Best budget epilator
PluckIt SuperGlide Mini Epilator
Magnitone London lookfantastic.com
£35.00
If you want a portable device to treat legs, underarm and bikini line, this is a good budget option, ideal for travelling. You get two heads, one designed for more precise plucking (not including facial hair), and there are two speeds. The large majority of our panel found it simple to use, reporting that it was lightweight and easy to hold. They commented on how quickly it removed hair and were impressed with the long-term results, saying that hair growth had reduced a substantial amount and that re-growth was also much sparser towards the end of the testing period.
ES-EL9A Wet & Dry Cordless Epilator
Panasonic amazon.co.uk
£75.00
Another one you can use in the shower, this comes with a comprehensive range of attachments (similar to the Braun model, with the addition of a foot-care tool). Our panel praised the trimmer and particularly liked the exfoliator brush, which helped to prevent ingrown hairs. After using this one for 12 weeks, three-quarters of our testers saw a reduction to hair growth and commented that hair also grew back sparser and finer. The panel found it most effective when used on wet skin.
Waxing
As with epilating, waxing is another technique that removes hair at the route. It should give you longer-lasting results compared to shaving and hair-removal cream, and you'll see a slow-down in regrowth.
Home DIY kits range from relatively inexpensive wax pots with strips, through to higher-priced refillable cartridge roller-based systems and heated pods inspired by salon technology.
Cold wax formulas are easy to use and work by rubbing between the palms of your hands to warm the wax strips,some work on hair as short as 1.5mm. Beware of in-growing hairs, a common problem with waxing, which presents as unsightly red bumps. Gentle exfoliation can help with this and dabbing a natural antiseptic onto the area will ease inflammation.
Threading tools
Threading is said to be an ancient hair-removal technique and is best applied by a professional. The process removes the entire hair follicle, rather like tweezers. A cotton thread is pulled along unwanted hair in a twisting motion, trapping it in a mini lasso, before lifting the hair out.
Fans swear this is the best way to achieve perfectly even eyebrows as threading can be very precise in the hairs that are targeted. A professional technician should take no more than a few minutes to complete the job.
Tweezers
Tweezers offer a simple and effective way to shape eyebrows. You can target specific hairs (when the hair shaft is long enough to be grasped by the tweezers) and simply pluck them away simply pluck the hair away. Use after a shower, or use a hot flannel to open pores before use. There are four types – slanted, pointed, point-and-slant tip and square. Slanted models are a good choice for ease of use and good grip. Look out for brands that offer a free sharpening service to keep your tweezers in top condition.
How we test tweezers
In our beauty lab we rounded up 19 pairs of tweezers, across both pointed and slanted models from a wide range of brands and price points. We reviewed each pair with an expert make-up artist, who shaped the brows of a group of testers. Testers then tried a pair at home (with the brand covered up) to shape their brows, assessing how well they gripped small hairs, how comfortable they were to hold, and if they removed the hairs without breaking at the roots or pinching the skin.
Difference between pointed and slanted tweezers
Slanted tweezers are better for general shaping as their flat surface and slant follows the nature shape and arch of the brow, and are great at grabbing a bulk of hair more easily. Pointed tweezers are better for grasping the finest single hairs with excellent precision. They do have very sharp tips, so you need a steady hand when using them.
The GHI's top 5 tweezers
Best tweezers
Slanted Tweezer with Grooming Brush
benefit lookfantastic.com
£14.45
These two-in-one slanted tweezers have a brush at one end to tame brows. Our testers praised their effectiveness at grabbing both thick and fine hairs. They also found the grooming end really effective for brushing brows upward to see the hairs for plucking. They reported that these tweezers are excellent at removing multiple hairs in one go, and they pulled the hairs out cleanly on the rest of the face, too.
Runner-up
Slant Tweezer
Tweezerman lookfantastic.com
£17.56
Testers praised the performance of these from the tweezer specialists, finding them highly effective on brows and other facial hair. Whether using them for shaping or using for precision removal of finer or stray hairs, they grabbed hairs cleanly and the vast majority of the panel (92%) said that they would continue to use these after the test. They come in a variety of colours.
Pointed tweezers
Kiko kikocosmetics.com
US$4.20
For the price, these are a great-performing pair of pointed tweezers, ideal for precision plucking. While the tips weren't as sharp as others, our lab experts found them the most effective for removing both fine and stronger hairs thanks to their great grip at the tips. Our panel said that they were very easy to hold firmly. When it came to plucking, most testers were used to using a slanted design, so they found these took a little getting used to, but the most rated their performance and precision.
Super Grip Tweezers
BBB London feelunique.com
£20.00
Our panel said that the curved design of these slanted tweezers helped with visibility and achieving the correct angle to pull out both brow and other facial hair cleanly (our testers praised the lack of breakage of hairs). While some reported that the shape and the tips' sharpness took a little getting used to, they really rated the overall performance.
Brow Set
Real Techniques amazon.co.uk
£8.99
Here you get high-performing pairs of slanted and pointed tweezers, plus three extra tools – a brow spoolie, brow compass and a brow brush – together with a clever case that folds into a stand for ease of use. Both tweezers delivered great results in our tests. Many of the triallists were very impressed with the grip of both pairs, finding it easy and 'effortless' to remove both fine and coarse, white and grey hairs. Testers loved the additional tools for further definition after tweezing and liked the case that kept everything together.
What's the difference between an electric razor and a wet shave razor?
Wet-shave razor
A wet shave with a good, sharp razor is a quick, easy and relatively painless way to get rid of unwanted hair. The razor removes hair at the skin's surface, for a super-smooth finish in an instant. Options range from fully disposable razors to a refillable razor with replaceable blade cartridges, which snap on to the end of the handle.
Electric razor
These are razors that have rotating or oscillating blades to remove hair. They are usually cordless and powered by battery or mains electricity. Electric shavers do not tend to require shaving cream/soap or water to be used effectively. The results typically last a few days, but the speed of regrowth varies from person to person.
Similarly to electric shavers, hair trimmers are normally cordless and operated by battery or mains electricity. They are suitable for longer hair that needs trimming to a shorter length, for example in the bikini area. Unlike shavers, they do not completely remove hair.
If I use a wet shave razor, how often should I change it?
Make sure you change the razor head regularly – you'll be more prone to nicks and cuts with a blunt edge. Soften hair follicles in the bath or shower first to make the hair easier to cut and use with a shaving gel to ensure good slip across the skin. Top-end replaceable blades incorporate balms for a comfortable shave and smoother skin. Regrowth can be bristly.
Why should I get an electric razor?
Top-end disposable razor cartridges are pricey, but once you've made the initial investment in an electric razor, you'll save money in the long term. Blades are protected by a fine mesh screen, which will appeal to anyone who is squeamish about getting any nicks or cuts. However, you may not achieve quite the same smooth finish with an electric razor compared to a wet shave razor as the blades can't get as close to the skin. Rechargeable models can be used in the shower. Make sure you clean your shaver regularly for best results.
How we tested razors
We asked our testers to trial these shavers and trimmers over a 12-week period and asked them to assess how effective the devices were, how easy they were to control, how simple the process was and how comfortable it felt when removing or trimming the hair around their bikini area.
The GHI loved these:
Electric Bikini Trimmer
Venus Bikini Trimmer with 5 Attachment Diameter
Gillette amazon.co.uk
£16.99
This lightweight, compact trimmer looks sleek and the panel in the main found it to be effective, with it immediately trimming hair close to the skin. They reported that its small head was suitable for use on the curves of their body and it was discreet and portable, so great for travelling with. Almost all of our testers noted how easy it was to use and didn't require the instruction manual. Also, they said that the 5mm comb helped with precise trimming of longer hair.
Showerproof Shaver
Go Bare! Rechargeable Mini Lady Shaver
Magnitone London lookfantastic.com
£29.99
The majority of our GHI testers were satisfied with this lightweight, mini shaver, which effectively trimmed their hair. Some observed that they had to go over areas to ensure all hair was removed. Yet, the general shaving process was quick and simple regardless. Although, a couple of our testers noted that it was harder to cover more awkward areas (e.g. underarms) and that the blade was difficult to clean properly. That said, the device scored highly for its compact design, which was generally easy and straightforward to use.
Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) machine
How does an at-home IPL machine work?
Another option is to use an IPL device. This is a hand-held machine designed for permanent hair reduction. It works by scattering "intense pulsed light" (a broad-spectrum light) across the skin. It directs light at the melanin (the pigment that gives the skin/hair its colour) in the hair follicle, damaging the root and helping to break the cycle of regrowth. Energy, frequency, skin and hair colour are all determining factors in the efficacy of the treatment.
Most IPL devices are suitable for the body and face. They work by gliding or stamping the device over skin, emitting light as they go. Gliding is convenient for larger surface areas of the body (such as your legs). Stamping (pressing onto the area) is better for smaller areas where you need to be more precise.
The devices themselves aren't cheap – with the most affordable one on our list still carrying a price tag over £200 – but buying one should mean you don't have to make regular trips to the salon anymore. But don't expect instant results. It takes a minimum of three months regular use to ensure all the hair has been treated and it can take up to 24 months to capture every single hair, due to hair's growth cycles. So top-up sessions are needed (typically every two to four weeks) for any regrowth. Expect permanent hair reduction but not completely permanent removal.
IPL devices aren't suitable for everyone, as they're only able to identify and target hair pigment that is a contrasting shade to the skin. Light blonde, red, white and grey hairs contain little pigment, so IPL typically isn't effective on people with these hair shades, whatever their skin colour. They also don't work on dark skin tones. Typically, those with pale to medium skin and dark hair are the best candidates for IPL. Generally, it isn't suitable for pregnant women, those with certain skin/hair conditions and those undergoing particular treatments – check the fine print before you buy.
Before you invest, consider that with some machines, once the lamp has run out of flashes you won't be able to buy a replacement. Lifespan for lamps range between one and six years based on average use as recommended by the manufacturer.
Is IPL hair removal safe?
IPL is considered safe to use, providing the device is from a reliable, trusted brand and instructions are followed as advised. Occasionally, some people may experience side effects such as redness, discomfort, and very rarely blisters or burns. If any irritation occurs, please consult a medical professional.
How to use IPL devices
For IPL to work effectively, some hair is required to allow the light to target it, therefore it's best not to wax or epilate ahead of your session. Shaving beforehand is advised as the light can target hair directly in the follicle. If IPL is used on longer hair, it runs the risk of burning the skin.
For best results, regular IPL sessions are required. Each brand advises how often to use their IPL device, and when you can expect to see results. Typically, most brands suggest a 12-week programme followed by top-up sessions as and when needed.
Does IPL hair removal hurt?
The level of discomfort varies from person to person, however, the sensation can feel quite tingly and hot (it's sometimes likened to being flicked with a hot elastic band). The process is quite quick, though, so the pain doesn't last long. Most devices have a range of heat settings to make it more comfortable.
What to consider when buying an IPL device
The number of flashes: This is the number of times the device can emit a flash. Most have a minimum of 100,000 and once the lamp runs out of flashes, a replacement lamp will be needed. You can't get replacement lamps for all devices, while some offer unlimited flashes.
The number of treatment heads: If you plan to use the device on smaller areas, a head that comes with a smaller treatment window is more efficient.
The level of intensities: This impacts how often you'll need to use the device and whether you can adapt the intensity to suit more sensitive areas.
The number of modes: Most devices offer glide and stamp modes, with some also offering a "gentle" mode.
Speed: The shorter the time between flashes, the quicker the treatment process.
Automatic skin tone sensor: Some devices detect the optimum intensity and safe settings for your skin tone.
Corded or cordless: Some devices can be used cordless, for ease of use and transportation.
How we test IPL devices
The Good Housekeeping Institute recruited over 80 women across the UK to help us test out a range of IPL devices in their own homes. The length of the test was 12 weeks, so we could see if our testers experienced the results they were hoping for. The testers followed the recommended instructions, found out how effective the devices were at removing hair on the legs, bikini line, underarms and upper lip, when any regrowth appeared, how easy the devices were to control, how simple the process was, and how comfortable it felt when removing their hair.
The GHI's top 5 IPL hair removal products
Best IPL hair removal device
Lumea Prestige IPL BRI954/00
Philips amazon.co.uk
£399.00
Described as the brand's 'most effective IPL' within their range, this device claims to show results in as little as four treatments, with further sessions helping to maintain. So if you're after quick results, this is the one for you. When you click an attachment on, it switches to a tailored programme for the relevant body or face area. There are five settings and it has a sensor to identify the most comfortable setting for your skin tone. You can also download a free app to create a tailored treatment schedule for each area, and get advice and tips. The device showed a significant reduction in hair growth for our testers, with 83% noticing a difference four weeks in.
Runner-up
Muse IPL Hair Removal Device
SmoothSkin currentbody.com
£279.00
This device delivers 60 shots per minute and offers unlimited flashes, so in comparison to most others in this guide, you won't have to worry about it running out. It claims to cover the body and face in 20 minutes and also has a built-in UV filter and a gentle mode for more sensitive areas. Most of our testers saw a reduction to leg hair within four weeks of using the device, commenting that any hair that grew back was finer and softer. Between weeks 8-12, most of the testers said their skin felt smoother, noticing that less hair grew back in the underarm and bikini area too. They also found that they had fewer ingrown hairs.
Infinity 400,000
Silk'n currentbody.com
US$190.00
This compact device claims to perform a full body treatment in less than 20 minutes, aiming to reduce hair growth and prevent stubble and ingrown hairs. With a built-in skin sensor, it checks skin compatibility to ensure it emits the correct light pulse. You can also connect it to a specific app via Bluetooth, offering a calendar with a treatment plan and a light pulse counter. Our panel noticed a reduction in hair growth and thickness after four weeks, with 79% stating that there was a significant difference when using the product for 12 weeks as recommended. The panel appreciated its simple design and precise head, allowing access in hard-to-reach areas.
IPL Silk Expert Pro PL512
Braun amazon.co.uk
£249.99
With 10 intensity levels and a skin tone sensor, this IPL device claims to be the safest, fastest and most effective IPL in Braun's range. The device offers 30% more flashes than its previous model, making it a long-lasting choice. It aims to treat both legs in less than five minutes at the lowest intensity level. After 12 weeks of using the device, 90% of testers were satisfied with the results. Most saw a decrease in hair regrowth after just four to eight weeks and noticed that hair grew back finer. This device also comes with a complimentary razor.
Sensilight Pro IPL Hair Removal Device
Sensica currentbody.com
£266.00
This device claims to deliver pain-free, permanent hair removal on both the face and body. With six energy levels and skin tone detection, it gives the recommended energy level for your skin. The rechargeable device can reach up to 600 flashes between each charge and claims to cover the legs in just 15 minutes. After using this device for four weeks, testers saw a reduction in regrowth, noticing that hair became sparser. Between weeks eight to twelve, three-quarters saw a visible difference to hair and were satisfied with their results. Compared to most other models, it has an automatic glide feature for larger areas, reducing the need to hold down a button. Our panel enjoyed this feature as it helped reduce the overall process time.
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How to Get Rid of Product Buildup on Hair
Source: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/uk/product-reviews/fashion-and-beauty/a663542/best-hair-removal-products/