is there anything that could be applied to the skin before hair removal to make it less painful?

Don't do ice because it closes the pores and makes them tighter and more painful to pull out.

There is a topical numbing agent called "no scream cream" that will help take the edge off. It says its supposed to "numb it" but it doesnt completely take the pain away.

I use it for my brazillian waxes and it works pretty darn good!

http://www.beautyneeds.com/beauty/no_scream_cream....

Hot water on a washcloth...let it sit on the area for a few minutes to open the pores...then it's not as painful.

I don't know what kind of hair removal you're talking about, but if you mean shaving, putting baby oil on beforehand works great! I used to cut myself, but I don't at all anymore! Go baby oil!

well i told to use a exfoliating scrub it opens the pours makes it less painfull and i notice my hair grew back slower just my opinon

Ice maybe? To numb it some.