5 Questions About Upper Lip Hair Removal Answered

Upper lip hair in women is totally natural. It is commonly fine, delicate, and light in color (or colorless), but there are also cases where it is more noticeable in some individuals. And while this doesn’t pose any health risk, it can make people feel self-conscious. This is the reason why many women choose to remove it.  

If you also have the same concern about your lip hair and wondering which hair removal method is best, continue reading on. Here we answer the five most common questions about upper lip hair removal to help you make an informed decision. 

1. Does shaving your upper lip make the area darker?

Shaving doesn’t necessarily cause darkening or hyperpigmentation. The way you do it plays a big part, as being aggressive can lead to the appearance of pigmentation over time. Repeated and aggressive hair removal (constant scraping and rubbing) can cause the skin to darken. 

It is also worth noting that shaving doesn’t make the hair grow thicker or darker. It may seem that way because the technique leaves a blunt tip that might feel coarse as it grows out. This can make the new hair growths look darker or thicker. For this reason, some women avoid shaving and choose other hair removal methods. 

2. Can you remove upper lip hair naturally?

Some people use honey mixed with part lemon juice to remove unwanted hair in the upper lip. This method, of course, doesn’t produce the same results as regular waxing. There are also honey-based wax removal kits sold online and in drugstores. More research, however, is needed to study honey’s ability to remove hair.

Another inexpensive way to remove upper lip hair is tweezing or plucking. It uses a tool called tweezers to pluck the hairs individually. As it removes the hair root, it can last three to eight weeks. The downside, however, is it can be more painful and time-consuming than other methods. It is also not ideal in areas with lots of unwanted hair. 

3. Is there a permanent way to remove upper lip hair?

The only way to permanently remove upper lip hair and hair in other areas of the body is through a process called electrolysis. This is done by inserting a tiny needle into the follicle and using an electric current to kill the hair root. Due to the way it is performed, electrolysis can be painful, expensive, and time-consuming. 

Laser hair removal Singapore treatments are a more viable solution, as they offer permanent hair reduction. These involve the use of a laser or light-based device that delivers concentrated pulses of light to target the hair follicles. The hair’s melanin or pigment absorbs the light and converts it into heat. This damages the follicle and inhibits future hair growth. 

When considering laser hair removal in Singapore, make sure to have it done in a clinical setting by a qualified professional. Cutis has aesthetic doctors on site to perform or supervise the procedure and use US FDA-cleared and CE-marked laser and light-based devices that are safe and effective for permanent hair reduction.  

4. Is waxing a good technique to remove upper lip hair?

Waxing is generally safe and effective, especially when done by a professional. It is performed by applying wax to the area and placing a cloth strip over it. Once the wax has cooled, the cloth strip is pulled away quickly, uprooting the hair. The results last for up to a month.

There are also waxing kits at home that can do the same. And when using one, make sure to follow the instructions carefully. It is also worth knowing that waxing can be painful on sensitive areas of the skin such as the upper lip. There is also the risk of skin irritation, ingrown hairs, skin darkening, and waiting for the hair to grow back a bit in between waxing. 

There is also a method called sugar or sugar waxing, which uses melted sugar turned into a paste. It can be effective in removing unwanted hair by adhering only to the hair and not the skin. This reduces irritation while leaving the area smoother for longer. It can be done at home, but for best results, it is advisable to see a professional.

For further reading: Hair Removal Methods: Ranked from Worst to Best

5. What are the pros and cons of using hair removal cream for upper lip hair?

Hair removal creams or depilatory creams offer a quick way to remove unwanted hair in different areas of the body. These products contain a certain acid or chemical that safely breaks down the keratin or the protein structure of the hair. This weakens the hair or makes it structurally unstable so it breaks off.

The main advantage of depilatory creams is that they are painless and easy to use. There are also creams specifically made for the face and contain moisturizers to leave the skin feeling smooth. It can be a good option if you have little time left to get ready, as the cream can be easily washed off along with the hair.

While the active ingredient in depilatory creams is generally safe, there are still potential side effects with improper use. Leaving the cream for too long can sometimes cause burn and irritation, especially for those with sensitive skin. But even if you don’t have skin conditions and are considering hair removal cream, do a patch test first.

Why trust Cutis for your hair removal needs

If you’re looking for an effective and lasting way to remove upper lip hair, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. 

• Different hair reduction systems –  we have different hair removal devices, including laser (Nd:YAG 1064nm), intense pulsed light (IPL), light and heat energy (LHE), and Super Hair Removal (SHR). The right device for you will depend on different factors such as hair color and thickness and skin type or skin color.
• Effective for permanent hair reduction – by following the recommended number of sessions, you’ll achieve permanent hair reduction. It will take longer for the hairs to grow back and if they do, they will be thinner, finer, and sparser than before.
• Aesthetic doctors on-site – our clinic has doctors who perform or supervise the treatment. This is to ensure that you’ll have a safe and comfortable experience. We also tailor our procedures to meet the needs and goals of our patients.
• Fast and easy treatment – smaller areas such as the upper lip can take just a few minutes, while medium and larger areas can take about 30 and 60 minutes respectively. The duration of the procedure will depend on the area and your individual profile.

Is upper lip hair removal worth it?

It does if it is making you self-conscious for whatever reason. Just do take note that you always have the final say on whether or not to remove your upper lip hair or unwanted hair in other areas of the body. And if you decide to do so, Cutis can be your partner. Contact us today at +65 6801 4000 to book a consultation with our aesthetic doctor.