The best waxing spots in London, picked by our editors

Part lingerie shop, part luxury waxing joint, Strip opened in 2005 with the aim of making hair removal a treat rather than just another thing to cross off on your to-do list. Today they have six branches across London, with decor that is closer to boutique hotel than beauty salon. Their wax technicians are consistently fantastic – the most painless waxes I’ve had, which is why I am a complete Strip convert. You will be too. Branches are in Chelsea, Notting Hill, Soho, The City, Islington and Covent Garden. Be sure to try out their anti ingrown hair serums too. 

Aveda is dedicated to holistic health and beauty care and its Holborn salon is a calm and soothing place to get a treatment, even when it involves getting hair ripped from an intimate part of your body. Waxing takes place in cosy rooms at the back of the spa, which are beautifully decorated. For bikini and facial waxing you can choose between strip and hot waxing (the latter being a little more expensive). 

As the name suggests, this tiki-themed salon is focused on making your nails look fabulous. But it also does an excellent service in quick, professional waxing. Everything about Hula aims to bring a bit of fun to your treatment: from the retro, Polynesian decor to the flavoured wax they use (chocolate hazelnut and berry, in case you’re interested). Note that it’s ladies-only and you must be over 16.

Otylia Roberts is credited as the woman who bought the Brazilian to London. She’s been making Londoners hairless for 30 years, so she really knows what she’s doing. All hair removal treatments use hot wax (far less painful than strip waxing), made from beeswax and other natural ingredients. Housed in slick Marylebone hairdressers Gielly Green, this is definitely a luxury offering. Prices for a bikini wax range from £27 to £57.

From the folk behind Soho House is this small chain of luxurious, welcoming spas. The unusual name comes from its original home: a cowshed at country retreat Babington House. Its focus is on natural ingredients and the wax – both strip and hot – contains camomile and rose oils, great if you have sensitive skin. As with all Soho House endeavours attention to detail is high and the decor is heavenly. Find it in Carnaby Street, Clarendon Cross, Primrose Hill and in Selfridges and Shoreditch House.