For me, the worst part about getting a Brazilian wax [1] isn't the pain. (Which, if you haven't heard, feels like a bolt of lightning travelling from your butthole to the back of your throat, where the audible gasp you'll inevitably be making originates.) Rather, it's the act of voluntarily spending the time and money [2] each month to have a nice lady in pink floral scrubs completely ruin your day [3]. I reserve these tender moments only for special occasions.
For every other time I need a wax, I lean on DIY hair removal kits [4] — and a heavy pour of Merlot — to get the job done. In my quest for the best formulas [5] out there, however, I have learned one thing (or two, if you factor in how humbling it is to try to reach the areas of your nether regions not even you have seen before): at-home waxing kits aren't always created equal.
Which ones live up to the claims of an easy, pain-free process? Um, none — are you even listening? But the waxing kits ahead are about as close as it gets . . . which, yes, will feel extremely, extremely close.
Bliss Poetic Waxing Hair Removal Kit
The Bliss Poetic Waxing Hair Removal Kit [6] ($24) is sort of like a scary movie — the sensorial experience is top-notch, but one wrong move and things can get messy fast. I noticed that it takes a long time to heat up (you have to nuke it in the microwave in 30-second intervals) but it does feel much gentler on the skin.
Nads Natural Facial Hair Removal Strips
Nads Natural Facial Hair Removal Strips [7] ($7) are effective yet gentle — for less than what it'd cost you to tip your waxing technician. I used it on my bikini line in addition to the area above my eyebrow, and even though I have sensitive skin, it didn't leave behind any irritation and redness.
Flamingo Women's Body Wax Kit
Flamingo Body Wax Kit [8] ($10) may be the works of a lesser-known indie brand, but let me just say: This sh*t works. In my opinion, the formula itself has the strongest holding power of any strip waxing kit I've ever tried. It gripped my hairs with aplomb, which means I didn't have to go over as many areas afterward — a big win, if you ask me.
Wakse Hard Wax Beads, 12.8 oz.
Here's what I'll say about the Instagram-famous Waksē Stripless Wax Beans ($15): The metallic shades are damn pretty, and make for the most aesthetically pleasing wax experience you'll ever have. Still, the hard wax was a little messy to use, so this wasn't my favourite formula of the bunch. If you want to enjoy giving yourself a wax (in the smallest way that is even possible), though, it's worth a shot. [9]
Aurrra Warmer Hair Removal Kit
I, too, was dazzled by the glowing 5-star reviews on Amazon for this Wax Warmer Hair Removal Kit [10] ($24), so I wanted in. And while the formula did work almost as well as an in-salon treatment, it was not exactly space conducive for my teensy NYC bathroom. If you've got the room, this is a great bet.
Sally Hansen Hair Remover Wax Kit for Face
Sally Hansen Hair Remover Wax Kit for Face [11] ($5), in my opinion, is the best affordable option. It's worth noting that you do have to heat the wax strips first — you can do that just by rubbing your palms together with the paper in between — which can be particularly annoying for lazy people like me. Still, it grabs the hair nicely and doesn't tug too much at the skin.
Completely Bare Bare More Ouch Less Salon Quality Face & Other Sensitive Areas Wax Kit
First, the good news: this Completely Bare Bare More Ouch Less Salon Quality Face & Other Sensitive Areas Wax Kit [12] ($13) does a damn good job of removing every last hair without hurting (for the most part). The bad news is that the lingering wax remnants will stay on your skin forever — or until you massage it off with an oil.