Back hair is one of the most universally disliked body hair issues for men – and one of the hardest to deal with because you literally can’t reach it yourself. This guide covers every back hair removal method, ranked by effectiveness, pain, cost, and convenience.
Best Back Hair Removal Methods Compared
| Method | Cost | Pain | Duration | DIY? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Back shaver | $25–40 | None | 3–5 days | ✅ | Quick, pain-free maintenance |
| Body groomer | $40–80 | None | 3–7 days | ✅ (with reach) | Trimming to stubble |
| Waxing | $50–80/session | High | 3–6 weeks | ❌ | Smooth results, longer lasting |
| Laser | $250–500/session | Moderate | Permanent reduction | ❌ | Long-term solution |
| Hair removal cream | $10–15 | Low | 5–10 days | ✅ | Budget option |
| Epilator | $40–90 | Very high | 2–4 weeks | ✅ (with reach) | Budget waxing alternative |
1. Back Shavers – Best DIY Option
Purpose-built back shavers have extended handles that let you reach your entire back without help. They’re the most practical everyday solution for most men.
Top picks:
- BaKblade 2.0 Elite Plus (~$35) – Wide blade, ergonomic handle, wet or dry use. The most popular back shaver on Amazon with 30,000+ reviews.
- MANGROOMER Lithium Max Plus (~$40) – Electric back shaver with extendable handle and two attachment heads (one for shaving, one for trimming). Rechargeable, waterproof.
Pros: Pain-free, fast (5–10 minutes), affordable, complete privacy
Cons: Results last 3–5 days, can miss spots, stubble regrowth
2. Professional Waxing – Best Smooth Results
Full back waxing removes hair from the root, providing 3–6 weeks of smooth skin. Hair grows back finer and softer over repeated sessions. Men’s waxing has become completely mainstream – most spas and salons offer it.
What to expect: Sessions last 15–30 minutes. First session is the most painful; subsequent sessions hurt less as hair grows back thinner. Cost: $50–80 per session. Tip your technician 15–20%.
Pros: Smoothest results, lasts weeks, hair grows back finer
Cons: Painful, recurring cost, need another person, ingrown hair risk
3. Laser Hair Removal – Best Long-Term Solution
For men tired of ongoing maintenance, laser offers 70–90% permanent hair reduction after 6–8 sessions. The back is actually one of the best areas for laser – large flat surface area, typically dark thick hair (ideal for laser targeting).
Cost: $1,500–$4,000 total (6–8 sessions). Annual maintenance: 1–2 sessions ($250–500). Over a lifetime, often cheaper than ongoing waxing. For complete details, see our laser hair removal guide.
4. Hair Removal Creams (Depilatory)
Chemical creams dissolve hair at the surface. Apply, wait 5–10 minutes, wipe off. Results last slightly longer than shaving (5–10 days) because the hair is dissolved below the skin’s surface.
Top pick: Nair Men Hair Removal Body Cream (~$10) – Formulated for coarser male body hair.
Caution: Always patch test 24 hours before full use. Chemical burns are possible if left on too long. Don’t use on broken or irritated skin. Never use facial depilatory creams on the body or vice versa.
How to Prevent Ingrown Hairs
- Exfoliate 2–3x/week after any hair removal method
- Moisturize daily to keep skin soft and allow hairs to break through
- Avoid tight clothing immediately after removal
- Don’t scratch when hair grows back – scratching pushes hairs sideways
For more grooming strategies, see our complete manscaping guide and best body groomers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I remove back hair permanently at home?
At-home IPL devices devices can reduce back hair over time (40–60% reduction), but they’re difficult to use on your own back without help. Professional laser is the only reliable path to near-permanent removal. Back shavers and trimmers require ongoing maintenance.
Does back hair grow back thicker after shaving?
No. This is a myth. Shaving cuts hair at the surface, creating a blunt tip that feels coarser. The hair itself is unchanged in thickness, color, and growth rate. Waxing and laser, which affect the follicle, do cause hair to grow back finer over time.
Ready Sleek founder. Obsessed with casual style and the minimalist approach to building a highly functional wardrobe. Also a fan of classic, vintage hairstyles.
