Shaving

Why we love it: Shaving is the easiest and most convenient of all hair-removal methods. It just requires a razor and shaving cream or, even better, one of the latest razors designed specifically for women with a lubricating attachment. You can shave as often as required, but remember to moisturise in between as frequent shaving can be drying.
How long it lasts: The downside is the appearance of prickly re-growth every few days, as hair is only removed at skin level.
Who's it for: When you're pressed for time, this is the speediest option.
Top tip: Shave against the growth of the hair for a much closer and smoother finish.
We like: Gillette Venus Breeze Razor $12.99; Schick Intuition Milk & Honey Razor, $11.99.

Depilatory cream

Why we love it: Your re-growth will be softer than after shaving. Depilatory cream dissolves the hair shaft from just below the skin. Start by doing a patch test on your arm in case you have a reaction, as the cream's chemicals may irritate sensitive skin. And never exceed the maximum recommended time for leaving the cream on your skin.
How long it lasts: Results should last for up to a week, depending on the growth cycle of your hair.
Who's it for: Perfect for when you want a longer-lasting result, but your hair is too short for waxing. Depilatory products may not be strong enough if you have coarse hair.
Top tip: Use a damp washcloth and firm downward strokes to remove any product, as the pressure will get rid of more hair.
We like: Nair Cream Hair Remover with Moisturising Cocoa Butter & Vitamin E, $11.32; Sally Hansen Extra Strength Hair Remover Lotion, $14.95.

Waxing

Why we love it: With repeated treatments, there will be finer and less re-growth. Wax is applied to the skin and when removed grips the hair, pulling it from the root so there's an element of pain involved. The downside is your hair has to be at least 0.5-1cm long.
How long it lasts for: Expect to be hair-free for three to six weeks.
Who's it for: Great for women who want a less frequent hair-removal regimen and need to clear larger areas of hair in one go. This method works well for all hair types from fine to coarse, on all parts of the body.
Top tip: Ina Clow, owner of Ciao Bella Salon in Sydney, suggests exfoliating and moisturising regularly in between waxing sessions to minimise ingrown hairs.
We like: Nair Easiwax Hair Removal Wax, $10.49; Veet Ready To Use Wax Strips for Sensitive Skin, $9.99 for 20.

Laser

Why we love it: For its permanent results. While there are many different lasers on the market, the Light Sheer Diode is one of the most effective for hair removal. The beam emitted by this laser is absorbed by the pigment in the hair follicle so the darker the hair, the better the results.
How long it lasts: According to Lisa Sullivan-Smith from The Clinic, Sydney, a client can usually hope to be permanently hair-free after a course of 4-6 treatments.
Who's it for: Anyone who has struggled with ingrown or excess hair.
Top tip: The process isn't without pain so Sullivan-Smith recommends the application of a topical anaesthetic, such as Emla, to lessen the "ouch" factor.
We like: The Clinic, Bondi Junction, NSW. For more information, call (02) 9386 1533 or visit www.theclinic.net.au.