If you’re looking to get rid of upper lip hair, there are a bunch of ways to do it. From removal cream, to the old bleach method, those who choose to shift it tend to have their go-to method, but it’s worth considering these longer-lasting techniques. FYI, no one dictates which hair coats your face/body/head except for you. We’ve all got facial hair, no big. But, if you-doing-you means plucking your lip and beyond (guilty), then there are simpler solutions out there. Here are the ones to try.
By Rachel Spedding
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1 Waxing
This one’s best done by a professional (you just try having the courage to pull that sticky strip off), but seriously, DIY waxing can cause bruising or burns. Regular waxing trips – to the salon – will encourage the hair to grow back more sparsely (and finer), so expect to be heading there around every four weeks. Oh, and when your beauty therapist offers the ‘cooling gel’ at the end – take it. And enjoy it.
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2 Threading
You can expect a similar pain level to threading your brows – hurts a little, but the results are worth it. As with waxing, you'll be hair-free for up to a month, as the hairs are pulled right from the root, so stay clear for longer. You can continue to exfoliate your skin (as your normally would) post-thread, which will also help to keep bumps or ingrowns away. Your skin may gleam a little post-appointment, but the redness will die down quickly. Find your largest turtle neck if you’re bothered.
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3 Laser
Though the results of laser hair removal may not be permanent, it does last for years. A hair-free lip. Years. The treatment works most effectively on pale skin with darker hair (but there are options for darker skin tones too – like Nd:YAG – which is a real thing, promise). Laser works by targeting the pigment in your hair follicles, it heats them up and ‘destroys’. Your technician will set up the frequency according to your hair colour/type, so you’ll need a consultation first. Short-term effort, long-term smoothness.
With Treatwell, you can book beauty online at all your favourite salons – simple, hassle-free, and you can do it on the go. Discover amazing salons in your area for your next wax.
FAQs
How long do the results from waxing your upper lip last?
You can expect results from waxing to last around four weeks. Regular waxing encourages hair to grow back more sparsely and finer, making each session smoother over time.
What should you expect after getting your upper lip threaded?
After threading, your skin may look red and gleam a little, but the redness fades quickly. You stay hair-free for up to a month as the hairs are removed from the root, and you can continue normal exfoliation to help avoid bumps or ingrowns.
Does laser hair removal for the upper lip give permanent results?
Laser hair removal on the upper lip is not always permanent, but it can keep your lip hair-free for years. The treatment targets pigment in hair follicles and works best on pale skin with darker hair, though options for other skin types are available.
Can you exfoliate your skin after upper lip threading?
Yes, you can continue to exfoliate your skin after threading as you normally would. Regular exfoliation helps prevent bumps or ingrown hairs, keeping your skin smooth after the treatment.
Why is professional waxing recommended for your upper lip?
Professional waxing is recommended because DIY waxing can cause bruising or burns. A trained beauty therapist ensures safe application and removal, often finishing with a cooling gel for comfort.