Each year, beach-loving Aussies spend over $100 million on razors, $30 million on waxes and creams, and millions more on hair removal at private clinics.

It seems hairy-down-there has made way for barely-there-at-all. So if you’re into a more groomed look, here are some of the best ways to get it.

DIY wax

Not for the faint hearted. But at least now the at-home products are more advanced and have waxing kits specifically designed for the bikini area.

Try: Nad’s Sensitive Hair Removal Crème, $9.95 
Andrea Naturals Blueberry and Banana Brazilian Bikini Wax, $19.95
Veet Ready to Use Mini Cold Wax Strips, $10

Laser

“Laser is the gold standard for ingrown hair because it removes the strand and weakens the hair,” says Kaye Scott from skinbyscottandsullivan.com.

“Ingrowns are worse if your hair is coarse. Laser weakens the hair, preventing them from reforming. If you can’t afford a full course of treatment, a few sessions should weaken the hair permanently. This will also help with any scarring that has occurred.”

The Victorian Cosmetic Institute does up to seven laser hair removal procedures a day – a session can cost anywhere from $165 for bikini line to $1000 for full legs and bikini. Although growing in popularity, it’s important to bear in mind that laser can be less effective for people with certain skin or hair types (most suitable for dark hair on light skin).

Professional wax

Bikini wax is different to other hair-removal treatments, so choose a qualified beautician for a better result.

Shaving

The saying, “If you shave the hair will grow back thicker” is just that – a myth. The hair will be prickly but it won’t affect the root so can’t change its thickness. Shaving really is the quickest and most painless option for summer hair removal.

We love: The new Schick Quattro for Women, $12.

“A classic pony-tail suits all face shapes,” says Robert Maiolo, of Sydney’s Maiolo Copeland hair salon. “It gives the face an instant pick-me-up if you are tired and can be worn day or night.”
For the perfect slick ponytail look, blow-dry hair smooth with a bristle brush, then use it to tie up your hair.

Try: Finish with Friss-Ease Moisture Barrier Firm-Hold Spray ($15.90), for extra hold and protection against humidity.

Low-rider

Want to get noticed at an after-dark do? It’s all about exposing the nape of the neck when wearing a formal dress – so a low ponytail is a sexy option here.
Or try a low side part, worn either wavy of straight, for instant night-time glamour. Trust us, hot dates will soon follow.

Tip: The easiest way to create volume around the hairline? Blow-dry locks towards the direction of the tail.

Bushy tail

To make fine hair thicker, you need to use mousse to add volume. Roughly dry hair, set with velcro rollers then brush out. To achieve extra density, back comb the hair (this will create fullness around the crown area) and pull into the pony tail. Spray with strong hold hair spray for the style to last. For sweet-looking curls, tweak ponytail with a curling iron and loosen with fingers. If you prefer a natural wave or for a more groomed look, brush hair out gently with a Mason & Pearson brush.

Insider trick:

Ponytail tool kit:

1. L’Oreal Play Ball Anti-Frizz Fizz, $26.95 for sleek ponytails.
2. Sebastian Professional Potion 9 Wearable Treatment $48.00 for natural manes.
3. L’Oreal Play Ball Fuzzy Rocks Structuring Gel Spray, $26.95 for volume.
4. Herbal Essences Totally Twisted Shampoo and Conditioner, $6 each for a bouncy tail.
5. L’Oreal Play Ball Wax Smoothie Definition and Texture Spray, $26.95 for a textured look.
6. Schwarzkopf Zero Frizz Hair Serum, $10 for a smooth style.
7. Tigi Bed Head Superstar Volumizing Hairspray, $28.95. 
8. Scunci No Damage Soft and Light Elastics 12 pack $ $6.95.
9. Frizz-Ease Moisture Barrier Firm-Hold Hair Spray $15.95 will repel humidity.