The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (2024)

The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (1)

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Today’s hair removal creams are unlike anything you might remember from your youth. Pungent, harsh creams have given way to better, gentler formulas that leave skin silky-smooth. So what are the benefits of reaching for a hair removal cream versus wax or a razor?

“The advantages of this kind of hair removal are that it’s painless, easy, fast, and relatively inexpensive,” says

Hadley King, a New York City-based dermatologist. "And compared to shaving, there is a decreased risk of cutting the skin."

Shop The Best Hair Removal Creams

Face, legs, bikini area—you can find a hair removal cream for anywhere on your body. So if you’re ready to move on from your razor, we scoured the internet and asked the experts to round up the highest-rated hair removal creams. Read on below to see what everyone is loving.

Pros
  • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (12)Soft floral scent
  • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (13)Comes with an applicator
Cons

    Derm-tested and safe to use on sensitive skin, this new hair removal cream from Flamingo can be used on underarms, legs, and more.

    What the Reviewers Are Saying:

    "I have pretty sensitive skin and this worked great for me! No super overpowering scent and I do feel like it helped a lot with getting a good shave. Skin definitely felt softer when using this." —sofi09

    Can Be Used OnBody, Underarms, Arms, Bikini, Legs

    BEST IN-SHOWER CREAM

    WooWoo Tame It! Vegan In-Shower Hair Removal Cream

    The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (14)

    BEST IN-SHOWER CREAM

    WooWoo Tame It! Vegan In-Shower Hair Removal Cream

    Pros
    • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (15)Made with soothing aloe and jojoba oil
    Cons

      You apply this cream first to dry skin, then step into the shower to rinse it off—and your unwanted body hair along with it.

      What the Reviewers Are Saying:

      "First time user. Applied for 6 mins before heading to the shower. Was a couple of missed patches swiped with a razor after but no pain or rashes. Easy to apply and the smoothest she has been! No more stubble or razor rash for that smooth feeling."

      Can Be Used OnBody, Underarm, Arms, Bikini, Legs

      BEST SOFTENING CREAM

      Nair Hair Removal Body Cream with Softening Baby Oil

      The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (16)

      BEST SOFTENING CREAM

      Nair Hair Removal Body Cream with Softening Baby Oil

      Now 35% Off

      Pros
      • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (17)Works on coarse hair
      Cons

        Nair is a classic for a reason: This softening body hair removal cream features a baby oil blend that reveals smooth, moisturized, and hairless skin in just three minutes.

        What the Reviewers Are Saying:

        "I don't use razors on my leg hair only this remover. Hair regrowth is soft and not prickly. Regrowth seems slower." —Chris

        Can Be Used OnBody, Underarm, Arms, Bikini, Legs

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        BEST FOR QUICK REMOVAL

        Neomen Hair Removal Cream

        The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (18)

        BEST FOR QUICK REMOVAL

        Neomen Hair Removal Cream

        Pros
        • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (19)Has nourishing ingredients
        Cons

          Thousands of Amazon reviewers agree: This depilatory cream is one of the very best. Not only is it infused with aloe vera and vitamin E to calm redness and irritation, but it takes only five minutes to remove hair from your legs, arms, and more.

          What the Reviewers Are Saying:

          "Make sure that you wait the 5 minutes. Get a warm wash cloth to remove the hair. So far I love it." —OSurfergirl

          Can Be Used OnBody, Underarms, Arms, Bikini, Legs

          BEST FOR MINIMIZING INGROWNS

          Veet Legs & Body 3-in-1 Gel Cream Hair Remover

          The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (20)

          BEST FOR MINIMIZING INGROWNS

          Veet Legs & Body 3-in-1 Gel Cream Hair Remover

          Pros
          • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (21)Large size
          • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (22)Suitable for sensitive skin
          Cons

            If the threat of ingrown hairs has caused you to take a break from shaving, consider reaching for Veet's gel-cream remover instead, which aims to reduce them overtime.

            What the Reviewers Are Saying:

            "I have sensitive skin and have been using this product for over five years. It always removes all the have and never gives me a reaction. Great product!"

            Can Be Used OnBody, Underarms, Arms, Bikini, Legs

            BEST BUDGET CREAM

            Nad's Sensitive Hair Removal Cream

            The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (23)

            BEST BUDGET CREAM

            Nad's Sensitive Hair Removal Cream

            Pros
            • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (24)Works quickly
            Cons

              For those with sensitive skin, this coveted removal cream uses a gentle formula to minimize potential irritation.

              What the Reviewers Are Saying:

              "Ok so honestly this product is amazing!! Used if for the first time today on my bikini area and I am one pleased customer! Apart from the smell everything is a 5/5. Also I needed to leave it on for the full 10 min, 4 min did not work for me but that’s ok bc this beats waxing any day! You will not be disappointed, follow the instructions and it should work for you too." —Shantel

              Can Be Used OnBody, Underarms, Arms, Bikini, Legs

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              BEST CREAM FOR FACE & BODY

              Sally Hansen Hair Remover Kit

              The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (25)

              BEST CREAM FOR FACE & BODY

              Sally Hansen Hair Remover Kit

              Now 30% Off

              Pros
              • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (26)Comes with aftercare lotion
              Cons

                Get rid of unwanted hair from the top of your lip downward with this easy-to-use removal kit from the pros at Sally Hansen, which also comes with a nourishing after cream.

                What the Reviewers Are Saying:

                "I've been using this stuff for almost 20 years. Takes all of the hair off, easy to apply, and easy to remove with damp cotton rounds. Will continue to purchase."

                Size1 oz.
                Can Be Used OnWorks for areas large & small, from the upper lip to the lower legs.

                BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN ON FACE

                Nair Nair Hair Remover Moisturizing Face Cream

                The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (27)

                BEST FOR SENSITIVE SKIN ON FACE

                Nair Nair Hair Remover Moisturizing Face Cream

                Now 34% Off

                Pros
                • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (28)Gentle enough for sensitive skin
                • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (29)Pleasing scent
                Cons
                • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (30)May cause irritation if you're allergic to nuts

                King says this is the hair removal cream to turn to if you're wanting to tend to your face. It gently removes hair from your upper lip, chin, etc. and contains sweet almond oil to moisturize the skin. Plus, it has a lovely scent.

                Customer Review:

                "This is my go-to facial hair removal product. It works quickly and efficiently. It has a pleasant scent. It is easy to use. The results last. I purchase again and again!" — Alicia

                Can Be Used On:Face

                BEST FOR BIKINI AREA

                Uttse Intimate Area

                The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (31)

                BEST FOR BIKINI AREA

                Uttse Intimate Area

                Now 16% Off

                Pros
                • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (32)Gentle for intimate / sensitive skin
                • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (33)Fast working
                • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (34)Leaves skin feeling super smooth
                Cons
                • The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (35)Reviewers say that the scraping tool can be sharp

                Made specifically for the more intimate parts of the body, this hair removal cream effectively and quickly (it boasts a 5-10 minute wait time) removes hair without causing irritation. It's also strong enough to use for the rest of your body, which is always a nice added bonus.

                Customer Review:

                "I loved this product. I’m a private person so no wax shops for me. This product worked perfectly to remove underarm and intimate area hair. There is a mild scent to this product but no where near overbearing. I applied as instructed, which was applying a thick cover over hair, do nut rub into skin. Make sure to wash hand after application, so you don’t spread in places you don’t want. Left on for 10 minutes, used damp towel and gently wiped away and like magic hair was removed leaving smooth skin in both areas. No irritation or burning. You will not be disappointed with this hair remover. I 100% recommend." — M. Wilkins

                Can Be Used On:Bikini / Intimate area, Face, Underarms, Legs

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                Frequently Asked Questions

                The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (36)

                Are hair removal creams safe to use?

                The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (37)

                According to Sarah Akram, master esthetician and owner of Sarah Akram Skincare, they are generally safe when used properly on the right candidate. However, "You’re essentially using a cream that will cause a chemical reaction to melt the hair off of the designated area," she explains, adding that she does prefer clients wax or shave over using depilatory creams.

                On what areas should you use a hair removal cream?

                The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (38)

                "Stick to applying depilatory creams to legs, arms, and underarms—areas with thicker skin," recommends Akram. In other words, while there are products designed for the face and private areas, the pro does not recommend them.

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                What prep and after-care should you do when using hair removal cream?

                The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (39)

                When applying the product, Akram recommends wearing gloves. "Remember: harsh chemicals," she says. For after-care, she says, "Make sure you steer clear of direct sunlight, meaning don’t use a depilatory cream directly before laying in the sun all day." She also has this word of advice: "Avoid combining the use of depilatory cream and shaving. This will not lead to anything good for your skin."

                Is there any time you should not use a hair removal cream?

                The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (40)

                "Avoid applying on sunburnt skin, or skin that has any cut or wound," says Akram. The esthetician also does not recommend depilatory creams for those who are sensitive. "Remember these creams are packed with chemicals which will lead to irritation," she says, adding that "darker skin tones may notice post usage pigmentation, just as they would from shaving. This is normal and should be avoided if this is a concern for you."

                Meet the Experts

                The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (41)

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                Why trust Harper’s BAZAAR?

                The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (42)

                For more than 150 years, Harper’s BAZAAR has been the preeminent fashion and beauty resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in beauty by working with the world’s leading authorities in dermatology, plastic surgery, cosmetics, skincare, haircare, and fragrance. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of beauty editors and industry experts.

                The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (43)

                Audrey Noble

                Beauty Contributor

                Audrey Noble is a freelance writer and reporter. She writes celebrity profiles and does deep-dive features about the ways race, gender, sexuality, and other forms of identity impact society via the beauty industry. Her previous work experience includes editorial positions at Vanity Fair, Refinery29, and Allure. Her writing can also be seen in Vogue, Harper’s BAZAAR, Bustle, HelloGiggles, and more. You can keep up with her on Twitter.

                The 9 Best Hair Removal Creams for a Smooth Finish (2024)

                FAQs

                How do you get a smooth finish with hair removal cream? ›

                Achieving smooth, soft skin with hair removal cream is a fantastic option—just remember that it's most effective when not left on for too long. Leave the cream on for the allotted time and then remove it. Wipe, don't rub. Remove using a scraper spatula or a cloth, followed by a warm damp cloth to get off any excess.

                What is the strongest hair removal? ›

                "Because using lasers offers a more targeted treatment, they reduce the potential of irritation or bumps that may be associated with shaving or waxing," board-certified dermatologist Marisa Garshick explains. "Additionally, laser hair removal provides a more long-term solution than shaving or waxing."

                What is the best cream for coarse hair removal? ›

                When it comes to removing thick or coarse hair, Veet products are the way to go. No matter your skin type — whether that be dry, sensitive, or normal — Veet® PURE wax strips, creams, and sugar wax kits are both dermatologically tested and effective hair removal solutions for everyone.

                Does Nair leave a smooth finish? ›

                You bet. The smooth, hair-free skin achieved with Nair™ products lasts days longer than shaving, because Nair™ hair removal creams chemically remove hair below the skin's surface. Shaving physically removes it just above the surface.

                How do you get the best results from hair removal cream? ›

                Leave the cream to get to work for at least 5 minutes, then test a small area to see if the hair comes away easily. If it does, remove the rest of the cream. If not, leave the cream on for a bit longer. Be sure not to exceed any maximum time limits stated on the package instructions.

                What are the side effects of using hair removal cream on pubic area? ›

                Depilatory creams use chemicals to melt the hair. This means there's a possibility of you getting a chemical burn. First-, second-, or third-degree burns can happen when hair removal cream is left on for an extended period of time. It's most likely to happen in the groin area because the skin there is sensitive.

                Is it better to shave or use hair removal cream on pubic hair? ›

                Depilatories provide smooth skin without the common irritations that can accompany shaving. Razor stubble, nicks, cuts and ingrown hairs are all avoided by using hair removal creams. Whatever your preferred method, hair removal should be conducted with care and proper technique.

                What is best to remove private part hair? ›

                Waxing. Waxing is one of the most common hair removal methods used for private parts. Here a layer of wax, hot or cold, is applied to the skin and is then removed using wax strips. It removes hair from its roots and gives you smooth skin for up to 2-3 weeks.

                What is the smoothest hair removal method? ›

                Epilating: mess-free and long-lasting

                Its unique ceramic discs remove even the finest hairs – even those four times shorter than waxing. The skin stays smooth for two to three weeks, so stubble is only visible for a short time between treatments.

                What is the super hair removal method? ›

                Super Hair Removal (SHR) procedures use selected wavelengths of low energy light, which are rapidly pulsed into the skin at 180 times per minute. Target hair follicles are gently heated during this process and terminally damaged. In short, that prevents any re-growth of the hair. The procedures are relatively quick.

                What removes hair the longest? ›

                Electrolysis is permanent—and thus, longest lasting. Laser hair removal lasts up to six months and can be permanent with repeated applications, but works better on some people than others. Plucking hairs individually with tweezers lasts up to eight weeks.

                Is Nair or Veet better? ›

                They both have sensitive skin formulas, but Nair's still feels harsh, and even though I use them both (whatever is on sale) all the time... I sometimes get a rash from Nair (probably when it gets rubbed in, lol) so I much prefer Veet. And I only use the Veet sensitive skin on uh... tender/delicate areas.

                Which treatment is best for permanent hair removal? ›

                Electrolysis can permanently remove unwanted hair. Once your hair is gone, you won't need maintenance treatments. It works on all hair types, including light-colored hairs, which lasers cannot remove.

                Why does Nair not work on pubic hair? ›

                Does Nair work on pubic hair? Nair can work to remove pubic hair, but should be removed with a soft cloth rather than the plastic spatula.

                Does hair removal cream make skin smooth? ›

                These creams are thick substances that you spread on your skin. After putting a depilatory cream on your skin, you have to leave it on for a few minutes to weaken each strand of hair. After this, you can wipe the cream off painlessly, leaving your soft and smooth.

                What should I apply after hair removal cream? ›

                Apply a good layer of body cream or lotion to your skin after hair removal. Choose a body lotion that contains soothing ingredients like shea butter, such as NIVEA's Irresistibly Smooth Body Lotion. Shea butter supplies your skin with long-lasting intensive moisture.

                Why is there still hair after hair removal cream? ›

                In general, depilatory creams aren't as long-lasting compared to other hair removal treatments that remove hair from the root, like waxing. So, don't be surprised to see hair above the skin's surface within a couple of days. How quickly depends on the hair's texture, rate of growth, and color. A "shadow" may remain.

                How long does hair removal cream keep you smooth? ›

                How long hair removal cream lasts depends on how fast your hair grows. Thornton says that the average regrowth rate is about two to five days, but this varies from person to person. This is a shorter amount of time compared to waxing, threading, or plucking—where the root is removed, too—but a bit longer than shaving.

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