8 Best Hair Removals Creams for the Smoothest Skin Ever (2024)

Made for removing leg hair, this depilatory cream in body “mask” form was best almost across the board in our testing: for easy application, having a nice scent, effectively removing hair, not irritating and making skin smooth. Multiple reviewers commented that they love the "pleasant scent" and the "thick, creamy texture" as it made it super easy to apply. While most thought it was extremely effective, one user noted that it didn't remove all of her hair in one use.

A top seller at Walmart, Flamingo's budget-friendly hair removal cream is designed for many different body parts, including legs, underarms, stomach and bikini line. It comes with a spatula applicator, making it easy to use and mess-free. "The cream has a great consistency that is easy to spread and wipe off with the spatula," says one Walmart reviewer. "My legs feel so soft afterwards — I'm ready for warmer weather with this product!" If you are scent sensitive, proceed with caution. The reviews are mixed about the product's smell.

This top seller on Amazon works quickly (in 5 to 10 minutes), applies easily and leaves skin soft. While we didn't test this in the Lab, we love that it's created for sensitive skin, and specifically the pubic area, so you don't have to be nervous about applying on those parts. "I was really skeptical and a bit worried about putting a cream remover on my intimate areas because of the risk of something going wrong," shares one Amazon reviewer. "I'm so glad I gave this a try — I've been using it for about four months now regularly and have had no issues." Just be mindful when using the included tool: one reviewer noted that the edge was a little sharp.

When it comes to your face and hair removal, you have to be extra picky choosing a product. While this Amazon top seller (over 13,000 ratings!) hasn't been formally tested in the Lab, we love that it is dermatologist-tested, gently exfoliates skin and "reduces hair regrowth," according to the brand. Plus, the sweet almond oil nourishes skin. "This hair remover is gentle and removes fine facial hair," shares one Amazon reviewer. Make sure to follow the timing directions, as a few users noted that it can burn if you leave on too long.

Another winner in our test, this gel cream from Veet was loved by reviewers for its easy application, light scent (both during and after application) and the way it left their skin feeling after. "It softens my legs and doesn’t leave them dry," says one, while another shares that she "loved how smooth it left my legs and there were absolutely no ingrown hairs." If your hair is on the longer side, this might not be the right cream for you: two reviewers noted it didn't work well on long or extremely coarse hair.

Veet's spray version makes application easy as pie: just spray, swipe and go. In addition to leaving skin silky smooth, it received high scores in efficacy, lack of ingrown hair and irritation and having a long-lasting effect. Plus, it's gentle enough for those with ultra sensitive skin. One reviewer commented that her skin wasn't irritated after the application, while another says, "it was easy to use and didn't cause me to break out in a rash," which often happens. This one has a strong odor so you may want to smell it before you spray.

Another winning spray formula, the GH testers love that the formula "smells great," that it is "easy to use with one hand" and "it rinses off easier than other formulas." It contains Moroccan argan oil, which nourishes skin as you get rid of hair. In our testing, the cream received high scores for ease of use and lack of irritation during and after application. One tip before you apply: put towels down to catch any falling product, as a few reviewers noted that it does tend to drip down.

Talk about a multitasker! This speedy hair removal cream from Nads removes hair, exfoliates and smooths skin in just four minutes, according to the brand. While we haven't tested this in the Lab, we love that the thicker formula contains cocoa and shea butter, making it super nourishing and great for those with drier skin types. "This hair removal body butter cream works well," shares one Ulta reviewer. "It removed all the hair, I didn't have any patches and it left my legs feeling super smooth." Like some of the other formulas, a few users did comment on the strong and chemical-y scent, so take note.

The Good Housekeeping Institute regularly tests all kinds of skincare and hair removal products. This test included eight products, which were assigned to 22 testers, most of whom used depilatory creams regularly in their hair removal routine. Testers used the blinded products at home at least once on at least one area of their choice and observed regrowth for a week. They then completed surveys, rating the products on a variety of factors including ease of use, performance, scent and more.

"Unlike waxes that remove hair from its root (which can be painful), depilatory creams are painless and create a smooth surface without the irritation and redness that often accompany waxing," says Wizemann. "They also do not cause razor burn, nicks or bumps on your skin, which shaving tends to do."

The good news: these creams are known to be a pain-free hair removal technique. However, the chemicals in depilatories can give off a pungent odor and do carry a risk of causing skin reactions after application, especially on those with sensitive skin.

"It's very important to follow the directions on the packaging, as they can vary among different products," says Wizemann. "Never leave the cream on longer than what is directed." The general rule of thumb is to apply cream onto dry skin, wait a period of time (usually no more than 10 minutes) and remove the cream with with a damp cloth or spatula if included. Wizemann also suggests doing a patch test on a small area of skin 24 hours before you start using the product to check for sensitivity.