[Acne] how can I get rid of upper lip hair without causing breakouts?

I’ve tried regular razors, facial razors, and the Finishing Touch Flawless hair remover. I’ve also tried plucking the hairs, which works a bit better but takes forever. I always use a new razor each time and cleanse my skin before and after. I even tried Glossier AHA toner afterwards once, but I still notice comedones showing up on my upper lip after a week or two. I don’t usually break out, and my skin isn’t sensitive. The problem got worse after using the Finishing Touch remover a couple of years ago, which caused comedones on my cheeks and upper lip for a long time, although my skin has mostly recovered. Any tips for a hair removal routine? I want to try waxing, but I’m worried it might make my breakouts worse than shaving. I have an event coming up in a few weeks, and I want to look my best, so I don’t want to risk any big breakouts. Thanks!

Are you new to skincare? A good place to start is the forum’s skincare routine guide! You can find even more skincare tips in our wiki! Everyone is welcome here; remember to be kind and assume good intentions.

Flawless removers shouldn’t be causing breakouts. Do you clean the head with alcohol? Other methods might be too harsh.

Nathan said:
Flawless removers shouldn’t be causing breakouts. Do you clean the head with alcohol? Other methods might be too harsh.

Now that I think about it, I used it about 3-4 times without cleaning it each time. I noticed the breakouts after using it a few times, so I stopped using it completely. Maybe not cleaning it was the issue. Do you have any tips for what to do after shaving to help prevent breakouts?

@Zion
I usually pluck what I can and then use the Flawless Face Hair Remover after washing and drying my face. I do this before bed and only use a light moisturizer after. I try not to use anything too harsh afterward. If my skin gets irritated, I apply aloe gel without added chemicals. Clean the head with alcohol afterward, but don’t scrub too hard. I really doubt your breakouts are from this method. Good luck!

@Nathan
Thank you!

Have you tried threading? That’s the only method that doesn’t make me break out, but it can hurt a bit.

Hello, it looks like you might be looking for advice on shaving or irritation from shaving, like ingrown hairs or razor burn. Have you checked out the shaving wiki?

You could consider using a facial epilator. It’s faster than plucking, but it does hurt.

Are you sure they’re not ingrown hairs? You should exfoliate at least 24 hours before removing hair.

Rin said:
Are you sure they’re not ingrown hairs? You should exfoliate at least 24 hours before removing hair.

That could be the case. They look like tiny whiteheads or small bumps, but I don’t know much about skincare since I’ve never had acne or other skin issues besides this. Can you suggest a good facial exfoliant?

@Zion
The Glossier AHA is a chemical exfoliant, so you can use that! I personally prefer a physical scrub at least a day before shaving (I use Kiehl’s Microderm scrub), and I’ve found it really helps my shave go smoother. I also recommend trying threading! It hurts a little, but they use a type of thread that pulls the hair out by the root, so it lasts longer. I usually thread and just shave for touch-ups.

@Rin
Thanks for your help! I will try it!

I like dermaplaning.

This might not remove the hair, but if you have very sensitive skin, you could think about bleaching it instead. It will make the hair almost invisible.

This is very much about individual experiences, but if you have suitable skin (dark hair and lighter skin), I’ve really liked my Braun IPL device for this.

Paxton said:
This is very much about individual experiences, but if you have suitable skin (dark hair and lighter skin), I’ve really liked my Braun IPL device for this.

I do have dark hair and lighter skin, so I’ll check it out! Thanks!

You should see a dermatologist! Asking people on this forum might not be the best idea!

I had this issue for a long time too, but I fixed it last year. I use a single blade razor and disinfect it with rubbing alcohol before each use, then rinse it with soap and warm water. After shaving, I dry my face with a clean towel but don’t apply any skincare products on the shaved area right away. I found that applying products too soon was causing breakouts. I recommend waiting about 3 hours before using any products on that part of your face.