The term peach fuzz has previously been defined as the hair teenage boys have before they develop their beards. However, peach fuzz occurs in women too, which many take a disliking to! It can sometimes spoil the appearance of makeup or cause general self-consciousness.
At Gillette, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to peach fuzz, teaching you what it is, how to remove it safely and the methods to avoid.
What is Peach Fuzz?
Peach fuzz is a common term given to ‘vellus hair’ which is shorter, softer and typically lighter in colour compared to other hairs on your body. It occurs all over the body, but can be most noticeable on the face, particularly around the jawline.
Its main purpose is to protect and thermally regulate the body, however, it is ok to remove peach fuzz from the face should you wish to (we have heating and air-con to help us control our temperature nowadays!).
How to Get Rid of Peach Fuzz on Your Face
You may choose to get rid of your peach fuzz if it makes you feel self-conscious, or if you’re looking to achieve a smoother facial surface.
Want to know how to get rid of peach fuzz on your face? There are several recommended methods to ensure you’re doing so in the most safe and sensible way.
- Dry Shaving – This is perhaps the easiest and most convenient method for removing peach fuzz. Shaving doesn’t remove the hair from the root, so to achieve the smoothest finish, you may need to dry shave every day. We’d recommend using a dry shaving tool that is specifically designed for the face.
- Waxing – Waxing or sugaring involves applying a sticky substance, often a heated paste, to the area of peach fuzz, allowing it to dry before peeling back, taking your hairs with it. A waxing method may last longer as it removes the hairs from the root.
- Threading – You may have heard of eyebrow threading, but the same method can be used to get rid of peach fuzz. Similar to waxing, threading helps to remove peach fuzz from the root, allowing for longer-lasting results.
- Hair Removal Cream (for the Face) – These chemical-based formulas remove peach fuzz by targeting their keratin fibres, causing the small hairs to dissolve. For removing facial peach fuzz, it’s crucial to choose a product designed specifically for your face. A hair removal cream designed for coarser hair on the body could cause side effects such as stinging, irritation or even blistering. A patch test is always recommended.
- Laser Therapy – If your peach fuzz is causing issues with your self-confidence, a longer-term solution such as laser therapy could be the best option. The process works by heating follicles so that they temporarily stop growing peach fuzz. Laser therapy comes at a cost, so you may need to weigh up the pros and cons and speak to your dermatologist before taking the plunge.
- Dermaplaning – Dermaplaning has previously been a popular method of treating acne scars and is now advocated by some skin specialists as an effective way to exfoliate and remove peach fuzz. It works by using a small scalpel to methodically shave off peach fuzz and is considered safe for all skin types when completed by a professional.
Does Removing Peach Fuzz Hair Cause Stubble?
Despite the myth, choosing to remove your peach fuzz does not mean it’ll grow back thicker or darker with a stubble-like appearance.
Does Peach Fuzz Grow Back?
Peach fuzz does grow back, and it may appear thicker when it begins to do so. However, this thicker appearance is only temporary while the hair breaks through the skin’s surface, before it returns to its softer touch.
Peach Fuzz Removal Methods to Avoid
Now you know the recommended methods for how to remove peach fuzz, it’s equally as important to know the techniques to avoid.
- Plucking – Not only can plucking be super painful, but it’s also incredibly time-consuming. There are much more efficient methods for getting rid of your peach fuzz.
- Hair Removal Cream (for the Body) – As mentioned above, hair removal products designed specifically for the face are the only ones you should apply to your peach fuzz. Hair removal cream designed for thicker body hair may contain higher concentrations of the chemicals used to dissolve hairs, making them far too harsh for facial use.
- Bleaching – Bleaching your body hair typically isn’t safe as it can damage the skin, particularly more sensitive skin on your face.
If you’re unsure about any of the peach fuzz removal methods mentioned today, speak with your dermatologist to help determine a technique that will work best for you.
Choosing to dry shave your peach fuzz? Here are the Venus razors we recommend for the job:
