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The larger size makes Nair’s Hair Remover Wax Ready Strips, which come recommended by Dr. Nazarian, ideal for larger areas of body hair removal. “A reliable option for legs and body, they are easy to use and don’t require rubbing or heating,” says Marisa Garshick, MD, a board-certified dermatologist. Your mileage may vary on how many times you can use the same side of a strip, but one pull removes a remarkable amount of hair. The pain level is about what one can expect: A little intense, but fleeting, leaving some mild red inflammation. The biggest thing to be mindful of with this product is the residue: It can leave behind sticky wax that requires clean up, despite not being thickly coated with wax. That said, it’s nothing the included post-wax wipes can’t handle.
“I used this for my bikini line and it was gentle on my skin” says Glamour senior commerce editor Jenifer Calle. “It’s the normal amount of wax stripping pain that you would expect and you can reuse it for areas that need a second pull but don’t overdo it if your skin is senstive. The residue can be very sticky so I would wear gloves when using.”
Best for Bikini Line: Veet Sugar Wax Strips
Original video by Jenifer Calle testing Veet Sugar Wax Strips
- Pros: Moisturizing ingredients; formulated to grab both shorter and longer hairs
- Cons: Not suitable for Brazilian waxing
Another of Dr. Nazarian’s picks, Veet’s Sugar Wax Strips are formulated with moisturizing ingredients (including almond oil and vitamin E) and designed to coat both shorter, stubbier hairs and longer ones—specifically, between 1.5 mm and 5 mm long. Both of these points make it great for the bikini line, where sensitivity and the hairs being at various points in the growth cycle are top concerns. The full-sized strips are easy to cut into smaller pieces for harder-to-reach places, while the easy-grip tabs on each strip help with the removal process. Just keep in mind it’s strictly for the bikini line. So if you prefer Brazilian waxing, you’ll want to look elsewhere or opt for a professional waxing service.
Glamour’s Calle like that the size is thick enough for large areas like the legs. “There’s no irritation post wax and there are enough wide strips that I can do both my legs quickly,” she says.
Best for Sensitive Skin: Parissa Natural Legs & Body Wax Strips
- Pros: Gentle; non-irritating
- Cons: Can leave sticky residue; strips might not be reusable
Parissa’s Legs & Body and Natural Bikini wax kits consistently earn high marks from those with skin conditions and beginners. “This gentle cream-based wax is fragrance-free and great for sensitive skin,” says Dr. Garshick. Fans say the strips are gentle and don’t cause irritation. Just know that since the formula is creamier, you might not get more than one use out of each individual strip.
Frequently asked questions
How effective are wax strips?
As is the case with many beauty products, wax strips are often as effective as the user and their preparation. “Their efficacy depends on proper technique, hair length, and the type of strip used,” Dr. Garshick says. She and Dr. Nazarian both note that they work best on longer hair—about a quarter of an inch long—so the wax can better adhere. “Hair must be long enough for effective removal, so it may be necessary to wait a period of time before it is most effective,” Dr. Garshick says. So, if you’re consistently striking out with your at-home hair waxing efforts, you might just need to practice a little patience. And as a bonus, “unlike laser hair removal, wax strips can be used on all hair colors, and can even be used to remove white or gray hairs.”
What is the best way to prepare for using wax strips?
A successful wax starts two days before you even pull apart a strip: Dr. Nazarian says to avoid “drying ingredients like retinoids or glycolic acid” for at least 48 hours before your wax. Dr. Garshick agrees—”these [ingredients] can make the skin more sensitive and cause more irritation with waxing,” she says,though she does note that “lightly exfoliating a day or two before waxing can…help reduce ingrown hairs.”
Right before you start waxing, Dr. Garshick recommends “cleansing the skin thoroughly to remove oils, dirt, and lotion, which can prevent the wax from adhering properly.” You want your skin nice and dry, so don’t be afraid to call in some reinforcements. “If needed, using [baby] powder can help the wax grip hair without sticking to the skin itself,” she adds.
Technique-wise, make sure to pull your skin taut and swiftly remove the strip in the opposite direction of hair growth for maximum hair removal.
What should I do after using wax strips?
Dr. Garshick recommends applying “a cold compress or soothing aloe gel immediately after waxing to calm irritation,” and avoiding exfoliation and harsh skincare (that means skipping active ingredients like retinols and glycolic acid) for a bit to reduce the risk of irritation. Dr. Nazarian suggests using a “lightweight cream to minimize ingrown hairs.”
Who should avoid using wax strips?
Wax strips may be convenient, but they aren’t for everyone. “People with certain skin conditions, such as eczema or active acne, may find waxing irritating and should be cautious,” Dr. Garshick says. You also want to “avoid waxing any open cuts or wounds or active breakouts,” she notes.
Are there cons to using wax strips?
Even for those without skin conditions, there’s one flaming red con to using wax strips: They can really hurt. “Wax strips can be uncomfortable or painful, especially for first-time users or in sensitive areas,” Dr. Garshick says. “They may cause temporary redness, irritation, or bumps, and there is a risk of tearing the skin, pigmentation, and scarring if applied incorrectly.”
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