Body hair may be a totally natural thing, but that doesn’t mean we don’t dedicate hours of our lives to getting rid of the stuff - especially if you’re a woman.
The scales of equality are starting to balance out between the sexes when it comes to what is acceptable body hair, yet many still feel removing fuzz is part and parcel of self-care.
Whatever side of the fence you’re on is your choice alone. If you feel more comfortable getting rid, the options are plentiful - but also rather painful.
There’s waxing and its off-shoot, sugaring, an off-shoot. Tweezing is only really suitable for small patches. Shaving is the cheapest option followed by depilatory creams, while IPL lasers dominate the costly end of the scale.
Another choice has emerged in recent decades: the crystal hair remover.
What is a crystal hair remover?
An ergonomically shaped handheld tool that resembles a detangling brush minus the bristles, the surface is instead covered in fine ‘crystals’; a layer of teeny glass particles, much like a glass nail file. When run under a tap and rubbed in circular motions over hairy patches, they snap off the offending strands close to the skin painlessly, if the hysteria on TikTok is to be believed.
Is any of it true? Have we finally achieved painless, long-lasting hair removal? We spoke to Helen Quayle, founder and owner of LaserHQ, to find out.
Do crystal hair removers get rid of hair permanently?
“No, crystal hair removers do not provide permanent hair removal. Much like shaving or hair removal creams, they work by removing hair at the surface level of the skin. Though some users claim the results are longer lasting than other DIY home methods, because they do not affect the hair follicle, you will most likely see regrowth within one to three days. For longer-lasting hair removal results, it’s better to stick with waxing, epilators, or laser hair removal.”
Can crystal hair removers be used on sensitive areas like the face or bikini line?
“Whilst some removers are marketed as safe for use on sensitive skin, I would proceed with absolute caution. Personally, I wouldn’t ever dream of putting a product with microscopic cut glass anywhere near my bikini line, armpits, or face as the skin on these areas is far more delicate than areas such as legs and arms and as a result more prone to irritation.
“If you choose to use a crystal hair remover in these areas, start with a small, less sensitive spot and use very gentle, light pressure. I’d also avoid using on broken, inflamed, or sunburnt skin.”
What prep should you do pre- and post-treatment?
Pre Treatment
- First, ensure your skin is clean and dry.
- If this is your first time using the product or you’re using it on a new area of skin, perform a patch test to check for adverse reactions and irritation.
- Unlike other hair removal methods, avoid exfoliating the skin right before using the crystal hair remover as you’ll effectively be exfoliating twice which could lead to irritation and skin abrasion.
Post Treatment
- After use, apply a soothing lotion or aloe vera gel to calm the skin.
- Avoid sun exposure, hot showers, and swimming in chlorinated water for at least 24 hours to prevent irritation.
- Do not use harsh exfoliants or other hair removal methods on the treated area immediately after use.
How often should crystal hair removers be used?
“The frequency of use for crystal hair removers will depend on individual hair growth and skin sensitivity.
Typically, they can be used every few days, similar to shaving or hair removal creams. However, it’s important to monitor your skin’s reaction and avoid overuse. If you notice any persistent irritation, my advice would be to reduce the frequency of use or discontinue use altogether.”
There are some advantages to using crystal hair removers. You can sling one into a bag without the danger of accidentally nicking your fingers on any blades. They can be used anywhere and don’t require battery or mains power. They work quickly and quietly meaning they are a worthy short-term solution against leg stubble.
If you’re curious about trying a crystal hair remover, we’ve rounded up the options to know below.
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ANSWR Crystal Hair Eraser for Men & Women
Get near-instant results with Answr’s coral-hued tool. Shaped like a teardrop, it’s easy to hold and can go over most major body parts, buffing unwanted hair until there’s nothing left behind but smooth skin.
Buy now £27.99, Amazon
Sephora Collection Hair Eraser
Offered in an elegant dove blue tone, this hair removal tool from Sephora claims it can replace shaving and reduce ingrown hairs. Rub in circular motions clockwise and then anti-clockwise to achieve a smooth finish before following up with a moisturiser to replenish the skin barrier.
Buy now £16.99, Sephora
Tweezy Magic Crystal Body Hair Remover Exfoliate & Painless
Smoothing limbs of dead cells and unwanted hair, this small tool is made for travelling. The crystals make 'strawberry legs' a thing of the past with one happy customer revealing that it works best when pulling skin taut and using a circular motion.
Buy now £15.39, Superdrug
Crystal Hair Eraser, ADMORA Crystal Hair Remover
Get five years of hair removal for £16 with this tool, which needs just a quick rinse under a tap to be renewed. The friction caused by rubbing the crystals with light pressure slices off hair as close to the skin as possible without any of the nicks or cuts you risk with traditional shaving.
Buy now £6.00, Amazon
Temple Spring Curved Crystal Hair Eraser
Made with a beechwood shell and a handle and fitted with a crystal pad, the slightly smaller surface area of this eraser makes it easier to reach awkward spots like knees and ankles. Rinse and dry regularly to keep the crystals working as they should.
Buy now £12.99, Amazon
Unisex Crystal Hair Eraser
Buff skin to a silky smooth polish with this lightweight crystal hair remover. It works just like the others; simply moisten and move over the treatment area in circular motions, stopping once the result has been achieved and following up with a moisturising lotion or cream to help the skin heal.
Buy now £11.99, Amazon
Tili Set of 2 Nano Glass Hair Erasers
Shaped slightly differently from other tools on the market, this disc still features the same fine glass layer on the skin-facing side but with a handle on the reverse to make it easier to glide over the skin. It can be used wet or dry and comes as a set of two so you’ll always have one handy.
Buy now £19.80, QVC
