Step-by-Step Guide to Removing Facial Hair Safely

Facial hair isn’t a problem—until you decide it is. Whether it’s peach fuzz, chin stubble, or those stubborn upper-lip hairs that show up when you least expect them, the choice to remove them is entirely yours. But if you’re going to do it, do it properly. Your face is too sensitive for experiments. No one wants to deal with irritation, burns, or bumps just for the sake of a little smoothness.

Here’s a practical, no-fuss guide to removing facial hair safely—without the drama.

Figure Out Your Skin

Before anything touches your face, you need to know what your skin reacts to. Is it sensitive? Does it freak out when you try new products? Do you break out from heat, perfume, or even certain fabrics? If you’re not sure, test the waters first—because skipping this step could leave you red, itchy, or worse.

Pick What Works for You

Let’s be honest—what works for your cousin might wreck your skin. Here’s a quick lowdown on the common methods:

Tweezing: Good for the odd chin hair or shaping brows. Just don’t pluck too deep or too fast.

Threading: Precise and gentle, great for upper lip and brows. Most beauty salons around Joburg and Durban offer it.

Waxing: Gives longer results, but not for the faint-hearted. Heat + sensitive skin = potential disaster.

Hair removal creams: Easy and quick, but the chemicals can sting. Always patch test—every. single. time.

Facial razors: Ideal for peach fuzz and light exfoliation. Just go slow, and keep your blade clean.

Laser: Long-term, but pricey. Make sure it’s done by someone who understands different skin tones—especially darker ones.

Whatever you choose, make sure it fits your skin, your schedule, and your pain threshold.

Prep Like You Mean It

Clean skin is non-negotiable. Wash your face gently with a soap-free cleanser. If you’re planning to shave or wax, a light exfoliation the day before can help prevent those annoying ingrown hairs. Skip this if your skin is easily irritated.

Go Slow and Don’t Wing It

This isn’t something to do in bad lighting or five minutes before you leave the house. Sit down, get a good mirror, clean your hands and tools, and take your time. If you’re threading or waxing, hold the skin taut and work in small sections. If you’re shaving, glide the blade gently—don’t press. And if something doesn’t feel right, stop.

Calm It Down

Right after hair removal, your skin is on high alert. Use cold water or a clean cloth to calm things down. Don’t pile on fancy products or makeup—give your skin space to breathe. A fragrance-free moisturiser or plain aloe gel can help with any tightness or redness. If you waxed, avoid sun, heat, or the gym for at least 12 hours.

Clean Your Tools

Used a razor? Tweezers? A threading spool? Clean it properly. Rinse with hot water and wipe it down with surgical spirit or rubbing alcohol. Dirty tools are a fast track to breakouts, especially around the chin or jawline.

One Last Thing

You don’t owe anyone a hair-free face. But if you want one, make sure you’re doing it safely. The key is knowing your skin, being patient, and avoiding shortcuts. Whether you’re using a salon threader in Pretoria or a facial razor at home in Cape Town, your face deserves proper care—not experiments.