A facial trimmer is a small tool for removing or shortening fine facial hair: the soft down often called peach fuzz, upper lip and chin hairs, and stray eyebrow hairs. It is quick, painless and inexpensive compared with waxing or threading. The right choice depends on where you want to use it, and on how sensitive your skin is.
What this guide is based on
Trimmer types and features are described from makers' specifications and general dermatology advice on shaving. We have not tested any of these tools.
Types of facial hair tool
| Type | How it works | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Electric rotary trimmer | A small spinning blade behind a guard cuts hair at the surface | Peach fuzz; upper lip; chin; sensitive skin |
| Electric pen trimmer with a narrow head | A small vibrating blade, often with comb guards | Eyebrows; neckline; precise edges |
| Single-blade facial razor ("dermaplaning" tool) | A small straight blade with micro-guards, used dry or with a light oil | Peach fuzz across the cheeks; a smooth base for makeup |
| Multi-head grooming kit | One handle with several heads | Face, brows and bikini line |
Professional dermaplaning with a surgical blade is a clinic treatment. Home tools are gentler, and have guarded blades.
A common worry: will hair grow back thicker?
No. Cutting hair at the surface does not change its thickness, color or speed of growth. A cut hair has a blunt tip, which can feel slightly stubbly as it grows, especially on coarser hairs.
Features to compare
| Feature | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Blade material | Stainless steel; hypoallergenic coatings if you react to nickel |
| Head size and shape | A small head for the lip and brows; a wider one for cheeks |
| Guards and combs | Protect the skin; set the length for brows |
| Power | Replaceable battery or rechargeable; run time |
| Built-in light | Helps you to see fine hairs |
| Washable head | Easier cleaning |
| Replacement heads or blades | Availability and cost |
| Noise and vibration | Lower is more comfortable near the ears |
| Protective cap | Keeps the blade clean and safe in a bag |
Choosing by need
| You want to | Choose |
|---|---|
| Remove peach fuzz with the least irritation | Electric rotary trimmer |
| Get the closest, smoothest finish | Single-blade facial razor |
| Tidy eyebrows | Pen trimmer with comb guards. See How to Shape and Fill Your Eyebrows |
| Deal with a few coarse chin hairs | Rotary trimmer, or tweezers |
| Cover several areas | Multi-head kit |
Who should take care
- Active acne, inflamed spots, cold sores, eczema or rosacea flares: avoid going over them. Blades can spread bacteria, and irritate.
- Very sensitive skin: choose an electric trimmer with a guard, and test a small area.
- Skin treated with retinoids or exfoliating acids: it is thinner, and more easily irritated. Skip those products for a day or two around trimming. See How to Fit Hair Removal into Your Skincare Routine.
- Sudden, coarse or widespread facial hair growth: see a doctor, because it can be linked to hormones.
How to use an electric trimmer
- Start with clean, dry skin.
- Hold the skin taut with your free hand.
- Rest the head flat on the skin, and move it in small circles or short strokes, as the instructions describe.
- Do not press.
- Wipe away loose hairs, and apply a gentle moisturizer.
How to use a single-blade facial razor
- Cleanse, and dry your skin completely. Some people apply a thin layer of a light, non-comedogenic oil for slip.
- Hold the skin taut.
- Hold the blade at about a 45-degree angle.
- Use short, light, downward strokes.
- Avoid the eyelids, the nostrils, moles and any spots.
- Rinse or wipe the skin, and apply a soothing, fragrance-free moisturizer.
- Use sunscreen in the daytime. Freshly exfoliated skin is more sensitive.
Use a fresh or cleaned blade each time, and replace disposable razors after a few uses.
How often
Every one to four weeks, depending on how fast your hair grows and how your skin responds. If you see redness or bumps, leave longer between sessions. See Razor Burn vs Ingrown Hairs: Signs and Care.
Cleaning and care
- After each use: brush hairs out of the head with the small brush provided.
- Regularly: rinse washable heads, and wipe blades with rubbing alcohol. Let everything dry fully.
- Replace heads and blades as the maker advises, or when they tug.
- Do not share facial trimmers or razors.
- Store with the cap on, somewhere dry.
See How to Clean and Store Nail Tools for general tool hygiene. For other hair removal methods, see Shaving vs Waxing vs Epilating: Key Differences.
Related on ArniSun
- How to Shape and Fill Your Eyebrows
- Shaving vs Waxing vs Epilating: Key Differences
- How to Fit Hair Removal into Your Skincare Routine
- Razor Burn vs Ingrown Hairs: Signs and Care
- How to Clean and Store Nail Tools
Sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
Does shaving peach fuzz make it grow back darker?
No. Trimming or shaving does not change the color or thickness of hair. Regrowth can feel slightly blunt at first.
Is a facial trimmer or a facial razor better?
An electric trimmer is gentler and suits sensitive skin. A single-blade razor gives a closer finish, and exfoliates lightly, with a higher risk of irritation.
How do I clean a facial trimmer?
Brush out the hairs after each use, rinse the head if it is washable, wipe the blade with rubbing alcohol and let it dry before storing.