Womens Shaver Information

Other hair-removal methods

Shaving is just one slice of the hair-removal market, which includes include lasers, electrolysis, waxing, sugaring, depilatories and bleaching. With all these options, the blade razor still rules.

Waxes are applied to the skin either hot or cold and then left to harden. When removed, hair is pulled from the root, producing longer-lasting results than shaving. Hair-removal lotions, called depilatories, work with a chemical called thioglycolate that dissolves the protein structure of the hair, causing it to separate from the skin. The important thing to know about this option is that it carries a greater risk of irritation to the skin. Users should proceed with caution – doing a test patch first – and avoid application to broken skin. Those with sensitive skin should steer clear of lotions altogether.

The best source we find for alternatives to shaving is Choice magazine's report on home hair removal, which investigates wax and lotion products. It recommends Veet Warm Wax as the best kit. Although this isn't available in the U.S., a similar product, Veet Warm Wax Roll-on (*Est. $11), is available. Consumers also can find a variety of Veet cold wax options, including Veet Ready-To-Use Wax Strips (*Est. $8 for 20 strips), also recommended by Choice. Nads Hair Removal Strips (*Est. $8 for 24 strips) is another recommended product.

You might have seen TV ads for Smooth Away (*Est. $10), basically a fine-grit sandpaper that's supposed to gently tug out hair as you rub your skin. Overall, reviewers say it works well, but it takes a long time, often requiring several passes, to remove hair, and many complain of rashes and discomfort.

For detailed information on shavers and epilators, try the manufacturer's websites.

Gillette

Panasonic

Schick

Remington

Braun