Plucking is best performed using tweezers and is a beneficial and economic method for removing the occasional coarse hair or a small group of hairs, such as those found on the eyebrows, nipples, or chin.

The results of plucking last longer than shaving because hair is pulled from the hair shaft, as in waxing. This method is time consuming, tedious, and painful. The reaction of the hair follicle to plucking can be unpredictable, possibly resulting in folliculitis, hyperpigmentation, scarring, ingrown hairs, and distorted follicles. Adverse effects from plucking include pain, hyperpigmentation, scarring, folliculitis, and ingrown hair pseudofolliculitis.