Hair above the upper lip is a natural part of life: everyone develops it at some point. In the past, it was unavoidable, but today anyone can choose whether to keep it or remove it.

If you decide to remove it, we’re here to help. In this article, you will learn about the most popular ways to eliminate hair above the upper lip, discover their pros and cons, and explore 12 effective methods that can make it less noticeable.

One of the oldest methods of removing unwanted facial hair is plucking. This method remains effective but requires a significant amount of time and patience. It is gradually being replaced by epilation: with an epilator, you can remove multiple hairs at once rather than one by one. Like plucking, the hairs are removed from the root, which ensures a longer-lasting effect compared to shaving. The downside? Be prepared for sensations comparable to plucking many hairs at the same time. 

Facial trimmers are affordable, effective, and compact — easy to carry with you and practically unnoticeable. This device quickly and painlessly removes unwanted facial hair, including the area above the upper lip. It’s important to remember that the effect is temporary. The hairs will not become thicker or darker, although their texture may initially feel coarser since they are now shorter than before. 

Hair removal using a thread is a popular and precise method for removing hair from the root, providing long-lasting smoothness and effectively tackling even short hairs. The main drawback of the procedure is high pain, especially on sensitive skin. Additionally, some people may experience redness and mild irritation after removal. 

Laser hair removal is suitable for any area of the body, including the upper lip, and is considered one of the most effective methods for long-term hair reduction. However, there are several nuances to consider.

 First and foremost, the procedure’s effectiveness depends on hair type and color. The laser targets pigment, so results may be minimal on light, red, or gray hairs.

The financial aspect should also be considered. Although the procedure itself takes only a few minutes, its cost is relatively high, and one session is usually not enough to achieve the desired result. It’s a significant investment, but many consider it worthwhile due to the high effectiveness of the method.

Potential risks should not be forgotten either: changes in skin color, blistering, or scarring. Fortunately, such complications are rare.

For those with dark skin, it is especially important to choose the right type of laser. Experts note that the Aerolase laser is safe for all skin types and tones. It not only effectively removes hair but also improves skin texture, addresses hyperpigmentation and acne, and stimulates collagen production.

Despite a common myth, experts explain that shaving does not make hair thicker or darker. Hair may appear slightly denser, but this is only because the cut hair has a thicker middle section compared to the tapered tip. While shaving does not remove hair from the root, it has its own advantages. The main drawback is that hair grows back quickly, so many people need to shave daily or every other day. On the other hand, the risk of ingrown hairs is reduced since the hair is not pulled out from the root.

For the best results, it is recommended to use a razor specifically designed for the face: such models have small blades that easily follow the contours of the skin. If a facial razor feels inconvenient, a body razor with a moisturizing strip designed for sensitive skin can also allow for gentle and precise care.

Finally, if traditional razors are not suitable, experts suggest considering electric shaving devices. They trim hair close to the skin while significantly reducing the risk of cuts.

Another method for long-term hair reduction is a series of procedures using IPL, or “intense pulsed light.” This method works similarly to laser hair removal; however, IPL devices use a different wavelength, which not only effectively removes hair but also helps reduce pigmentation and redness on the skin. As with laser treatment, maximum effectiveness requires a contrast between dark hair and light skin, so people with darker skin tones should exercise caution and consult a specialist beforehand. Another point to note: IPL procedures are usually less expensive than laser treatments, although achieving the same results may require more sessions.

Electrolysis combines the benefits of laser hair removal and depilatory creams: it removes individual hairs by destroying their growth center using heat or chemical agents.

The procedure is performed with a thin probe inserted into each follicle. Then, heat or chemical action destroys the follicle, providing permanent hair removal. 

Electrolysis is especially effective on small areas, such as the upper lip.

It is important to note that the procedure is performed not by dermatologists but by specialists certified in electrolysis. The main advantage of this method is its long-lasting result. Among the disadvantages is the individual treatment of each follicle: a session on the upper lip can take 30 minutes or more, and multiple sessions may be required for complete hair removal. Additionally, improper application of heat or chemicals may cause scarring.

If you have never tried dermaplaning before, you are in for a pleasant surprise. This procedure, which can be done both in a salon and at home using a special blade, not only removes unwanted hairs but also gently exfoliates dead skin cells.

The main advantage of dermaplaning is very thorough hair removal, and the procedure is completely painless. As for the drawbacks, if done in a salon, the results are not permanent, and the cost is higher compared to performing it at home.

If the hair on your upper lip grows too quickly, specialists recommend consulting a doctor or dermatologist to prescribe eflornithine cream. This medicinal product slows the hair growth cycle, gradually making hairs finer. However, the cream does not remove hair instantly; it helps control hair growth over time. 

Depilatory creams work by using chemical substances that dissolve the hair on the surface of the skin. However, due to their composition, many people prefer not to use them on the face—and that’s entirely reasonable. These creams can cause irritation, have a strong odor, and sometimes trigger allergic reactions. On the other hand, if no side effects occur, the results last noticeably longer than regular shaving: the creams penetrate deeper, dissolving hair below the skin’s surface, though not all the way down to the root.

If you decide to try this method, experts recommend choosing products specifically designed for the face and, if possible, for sensitive skin. First, test the cream on a small area to ensure there’s no allergic reaction, and be sure to follow the instructions carefully.

Sugaring is an alternative method for removing unwanted hair on the upper lip. This ancient hair removal technique differs from waxing in that the sugar paste is applied at room temperature, gently working on the skin. The paste is applied against the direction of hair growth and removed along the growth, which makes the procedure less painful and allows hair to be removed from the root. The results last approximately 4–6 weeks, depending on individual characteristics.

Before the procedure, it is recommended to temporarily pause medications that thin the skin, such as anticoagulants, so that the skin can better tolerate the exfoliation involved in sugaring. For those wishing to try the procedure at home, sugar paste can be prepared independently.

Another option is wax depilation, which requires a careful approach for sensitive skin. This method is considered less preferable, but it has its advantages: waxing is relatively inexpensive and effectively removes hair, providing a longer-lasting result compared to other home methods. At the same time, the procedure can be painful, and some people may experience redness and irritation of the hair follicles for a few days afterward. When using wax strips at home, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to minimize possible side effects.

High-Quality Wax for Hair Removal 

Film Wax beads from Global Fashion effectively remove even short and coarse hairs as short as 2 mm without the use of strips. It is ideal for sensitive skin, does not cause irritation, and leaves the skin feeling smooth and soft with a pleasant fragrance.

Also, check out the cartridge wax from the same brand — it reduces the hair removal process by half, providing a quick, convenient, and comfortable result. 

If you are looking for a hair removal kit with a wooden spatula, strips, and wax, pay attention to the professional depilation kits from Global Fashion, which can be easily ordered online. 

Read also: How to Remove Facial Hair with Honey at Home: Step-by-Step Instructions