Schick Quattro, $9
With four blades, this Mercedes-Benz of shavers glides over all hairs in its path without nicks or razor burn, resulting in a very smooth shave. The rubber handle prevents slipups in the shower.
Tip: Always use a clean, sharp blade. “A dull or rusty one will abrade skin and leave razor burn,†says New York City dermatologist Laurie J. Polis. At the bikini line, an area notorious for developing shaving nicks and bumps, pull the skin taut and shave in the opposite direction of the hair growth.
Surgi Wax Professional Salon System, $25
The roll-on wax applicators minimize the sticky mess, and when heated, the beeswax-based formula helps root out even the most coarse and stubborn hairs.
Tip: Certain retinoid acne medications, like Accutane, Renova, and Retin-A, can make skin extra sensitive. If you’re using one of these medications, avoid all hot-waxing methods.
Parissa Quick & Easy 2 in 1 Roll-On, $20
These rollers, which come in two sizes to accommodate different areas of the body, fit neatly in the palm of your hand and are easy to wield. The sugar-based formula washes off easily, and the kit includes 20 large, reusable wax strips.
Tip: To minimize inflammation, pull off wax in the opposite direction of the hair growth using a fast, peeling-a-banana motion and keeping your hand close to your skin. Yanking straight upward (a rookie move) is more irritating and more painful.
Nair Sensitive Wax Strips for Sensitive Body Parts, $5.50
Good for tender areas, like the underarms, these convenient strips are also handy for traveling. The wax contains soothing bisabolol, derived from chamomile, and moisturizing sunflower-seed oil.
Tip: If your first try doesn’t catch all the hairs, wait at least a day to repeat. Rewaxing the same area too soon can cause irritation.
Carefree Hair Remover Totally Smooth Leg Crème, $6
Yesterday’s depilatories were like something out of a high school chemistry class: stinky and messy. This one, however, has a less overwhelming scent and a no-touch applicator, so you don’t have to get your hands dirty. It also contains skin conditioners, including aloe, vitamin E, and soy.
Tip: Do a patch test at least 24 hours in advance to be sure your skin doesn’t react to the product. You should also wash the skin with soap and water directly after using a depilatory. “If you don’t get it all off, the trace amounts of chemicals left behind can be irritating,†says dermatologist Valerie D. Callender of Mitchellville, Maryland.
Finishing Touch Lumina Hair Remover, $10
Perfect for those annoying little strays that pop up between regular hair-removal sessions, this mini electric trimmer works on all body parts, from the toes to the upper lip. It has a two-sided attachment, so you can choose just how close you want to cut. And it lights up to help you see those strays clearly and trim them precisely.
Tip: For the best results, start with clean, dry skin. Avoid applying moisturizer before you trim, as it can clog the tool’s blades and prevent a close cut.
