Here are the best hair removal creams that actually work

When it comes to flaunting those sun-kissed legs during the summer season (or even daring to bare in the winter), there's one best hair removal product that comes up again and again - hair removal cream. The latest formulas on the market eliminate hair follicles completely in one easy, pain-free step in only 10 minutes. And guess what? A majority don't reek of ammonia anymore so these creams can actually smell good now. Try not to faint with excitement.

Say goodbye to those pesky razor burns, irksome bumps, and those sneaky ingrown hairs that just won't quit. Trust us, when it comes to eliminating unwanted fuzz these creams are your new best friend. No more wincing from sessions using your home waxing kit. Life has been painful enough these last three years, so why go through any more when it comes to hair removal? We know you've cried using even the best epilators in the past. Our eyes are watering just thinking about it.

Closer's best hair removal creams at a glance:

Editor's Choice: Veet Pure Hair Removal Cream, Legs & Body, Sensitive Skin, £4.40 on Amazon

Best hair removal cream for thick, dark hair: Nair Tough Hair Removal Cream, £4 on Amazon

Best hair removal cream for the face: Nad's Facial Hair Removal Cream and Soothing Balm, £4.95 on Amazon

Let's chat about versatility. These creams are not a one-trick pony, they're your all-access pass to smooth skin. Legs, bikini line, face – you name it, and these creams have got you covered. If you're after that immaculate Brazilian or Hollywood wax feel, this method is the way to go. Be warned though, while there are specialized depilatory creams for facial zones, avoid direct application to sensitive areas if it's a general cream. Follow the advice on the packaging for the best results. And always do a patch test!

To save you the trouble of hunting down these miracle creams, we've done the legwork for you. We've rounded up the crème de la crème of hair removal creams available to purchase right now.

SHOP: Hair removal creams that will revolutionise your self-care routine

How do they work?

Delving into the science, hair removal creams work their magic through the power of alkaline chemicals. These gentle-yet-effective ingredients safely break down your hair's Keratin structure, meaning after a five to ten-minute wait you can effortlessly wipe away those pesky strands using a spatula, a flannel, or even a sponge to reveal dolphin-smooth skin.

Does hair removal cream make hair thicker?

Depilatory cream does not affect the thickness of hair growth once used nor does it affect the speed of growth. However, because it does not remove the hair from the root as plucking does, you may still be able to see a very small shadow of the root under your skin after using it.

Do depilatory creams cause ingrown hairs?

Unlike electric razors that cut along the skin, hair removal creams dissolve the very follicle making ingrowns less likely. However, if you've battled ingrown hairs in the past, it's wise to exfoliate between cream applications. How? Take your pick – an exfoliating scrub or a trusty skin brush. These skin tools combat the buildup of oils, grime, and dead skin cells that can lead to follicle blockages.

Ruby Barry is a Product Writer for heat, specialising in fashion and beauty. The team has nicknamed her “dupe queen”, as there’s not a product in the world she can’t find a cheaper alternative for.