7 Chest Hair Removal and Grooming Methods to Try

philips norelco multigroom 5000 — Philips Norelco / Design by Cristina Cianci

In This Article

Trimming Shaving Hair Removal Cream Waxing

Sugaring Laser Hair Removal Electrolysis

Chest hair removal or grooming is a part of many mens' weekly upkeep. Whether it's because you want to show off all the hard work you have been putting in at the gym or keep your hair from getting caught up in your buttons or zipper—you have options.

Ahead, we've spoken with dermatologists to put together a list of chest hair removal options. Whatever method you decide on, or if you've chosen to do nothing about your chest hair—know that it's truly up to you. Let your chest hair run wild and free if you so desire, but know your tools if you ever want to make a change.

Meet the Expert

Marisa Garshick, MD, FAAD is a leading board-certified dermatologist. Dr. Garshick provides a wide variety of cosmetic and medical procedures and services including treatments for acne, eczema, hyperhidrosis, moles, psoriasis, rosacea, signs of aging, skin cancer, skin tags, vitiligo, and wrinkles.
Dr. Blair Murphy-Rose is a board-certified cosmetic, medical and surgical dermatologist who specializes in facial rejuvenation, advanced laser procedures, non-invasive body contouring and is an expert in treating medical conditions such as skin cancer, acne, eczema and psoriasis.

01 of 07

Trimming

You don't have to remove all of your hair. In fact, says Blair Murphy-Rose, "The best thing is actually to cut hairs short." That's because you reduce the risk of irritation or ingrown hair. But cutting off some length can make a world of difference. It can make your chest overall look less hairy and show off more of your muscle definition.

Pros: This will keep it from getting stuck in your clothes and will look more groomed. There's no chance of razor burn and less chance of ingrown hairs.
Cons: Unfortunately, you have to continue to do this every couple of days to once a week, depending on how attached you are to a certain length to keep up the look.

Men's body groomers like Philips Norelco Bodygroom (read our review here) and Philips Norelco Multigroom 9000 ($90) are made especially for this purpose.

02 of 07

Shaving

"Shaving removes hairs closer to the surface, so the change of ingrowns tends to be reduced as compared to waxing," says Murphy-Rose. For those who want it smooth, go bare. If you have the pecks to flaunt, why not?

Pros: Quick and easy.
Cons: Well, the stubble can be bothersome and you will have to shave religiously to keep it smooth and bare. There's a risk of getting razor burn and ingrown hairs. It can also be itchy when growing back in.

03 of 07

Hair Removal Cream

If you don't want it pulled out and you swore off shaving, a hair removal cream breaks down the hair so you can wipe it off. "Removal of chest hair can be performed using chemical depilatories," notes Marisa Garshick. That said, it's not as long-lasting as some other options.

Pros: Fairly quick, easy and no razor needed.
Cons: Be careful. The depilatories in hair removal creams are very strong and can give you a chemical burn or irritation, especially if you're prone to an allergic reaction or have sensitive skin.

They make products, especially for men, but standard hair removal creams should work fine.

04 of 07

Waxing

It's not as bad as Steve Carell made it seem in The 40-Year-Old Virgin. And, as Garshick notes, it works and keeps hair off the chest for several weeks.

Pros: After waxing, you can be hair, and worry-free, for three to four weeks.
Cons: There is always the possibility of burns, bruising, and ingrown hair.

Byrdie Tip

Exfoliate the skin at least two days before your appointment. Exfoliating may make it easier for the wax to stick to the hair rather than your skin, making the removal process less painful.

05 of 07

Sugaring

Sugaring is an all-natural paste or gel removes the hair from the root, also lasting three to four weeks.

Pros: This is one of the oldest hair removal methods and tends to be great for sensitive skin. It's also known to hurt less than waxing because the paste used is removed in the same direction in which hair grows.
Cons: Depending on where you live, you might have some trouble finding someone that does a real sugaring technique. Like waxing, skin irritation and ingrown hair can also play a part in this method.

06 of 07

Laser Hair Removal

"Laser hair removal can be an effective option though can take multiple sessions and in general may require at least 4-6 sessions," says Garshick. While you're not 100% guaranteed that you'll never see your hair again, only seek this option if you're fine with having a bare chest for good. You have the option of going to a professional or using an at-home device. "I highly recommend laser hair removal over waxing or shaving for those seeking a long-term solution," says Murphy-Rose. "For those who are unsure if they will always want the hair gone in an area, laser won't be the right choice."

Pros: This method is FDA approved for permanent hair reduction. Plus, large areas can be treated at once.
Cons: With many lasers, you need to have dark hair and lighter skin for safety reasons and to achieve the best results. Laser hair removal can be expensive as multiple sessions are usually needed. Risks include scarring, blisters, burns, pigmentation, and pain. The treatment may not leave your entire chest completely hairless, and patches of hair could be left.

07 of 07

Electrolysis

Electrolysis has the best track record of any hair removal method, and it's usually reserved for those really serious about permanently having a smooth chest.

Pros: This is the only FDA approved method of permanent hair removal (Laser is permanent hair reduction). Plus, you don't need a certain hair or skin color to get the best results.
Cons: It takes multiple sessions, and can be quite painful. Plus, hair may only be reduced, which means you could have patches of hair left.

Here are the 7 best beauty tips we've picked up from men.