Struggling to get unwanted hair off your face, legs, and other spots? Our experts share their favorite products and favorite techniques.
Debra Jaliman, MD, dermatologist and author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets From a Top New York Dermatologist:
Blade Runner
Schick Intuition Pure Nourishment Razor ($9.99) -- "I like razors with multiple blades and conditioning strips, like this one infused with coconut milk and almond oil. For the closest shave, shave against the growth. If you have sensitive skin, shave in the direction of the hair growth."
Smooth Move
Remington Smooth & Silky Epilator ($59.99) -- "For the best epilation [an epilator is a hand-held electrical device that grasps and pulls out unwanted hairs], it is essential to exfoliate. Then epilate against the grain, and if you’re sensitive to pain, take an over-the-counter pain reliever a half hour before."
Foam Run
Satin Care Dry Skin Shave Gel ($3.49) -- "Don’t shave on dry skin, as you will get cuts, nicks, and micro-abrasions that can lead to bumps. To prevent bumps, use a hydrating shaving gel like this -- not soap. Wait a few minutes in the shower after applying the gel and let it penetrate."
Stubble Trouble
Veet Fast Acting Gel Cream Hair Remover ($9) -- "Depilatories [chemical-based creams that break down keratin for easy hair removal] have come a long way. They have much nicer scents, and they leave your skin feeling smooth and soft. Do a patch test to make certain you are not allergic."
Jennifer MacGregor, MD,assistant clinical professor of dermatology, Columbia University Medical Center:
Wax Relief
Eucerin Redness Relief Daily Perfecting Lotion ($14.99) -- "Waxing pulls at the skin and removes the outer layer of skin, which can be especially irritating to sensitive skin. If you notice irritation or redness after waxing, apply a calming cream like this to avoid bumps or infections."
Fuzz Fighter
Olay Smooth Finish Facial Hair Removal Duo Kit ($23.99) -- "Even with great facial depilatories like this one, which comes with a barrier balm, I recommend trying two test areas. First, test on the arm and then on the face in an area, like the jawline, that is less noticeable than the upper lip."
Finer Point
Bliss ‘Fuzz’ Off ($24) -- "I love the convenient applicator on this facial hair removal cream because it allows for easy application and removal. Plus, it’s infused with vitamin E and soothing willowherb, so post-treatment itchiness is almost nonexistent."
Main Tweeze
Revlon Designer Collection Slanted Tweezers ($6) -- "Slanted tweezers are ideal for grabbing and removing individual hairs, but don’t overdo it. One of the biggest no-nos is using tweezers to pick at ingrown hairs. This can leave brown spots and even permanent scarring."
The opinions expressed in this section are of the experts and are not the opinions of WebMD. WebMD does not endorse any specific product, service, or treatment.
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source : You Asked! Expert A's to Beauty Q's: Hair Removal