Hair removal creams, or depilatories, work by chemically dissolving keratin, which is the protein that makes up each strand of hair. These depilatories come in the form of creams, lotions or even powders mixed with water. Depending upon the formulation, depilatory creams can be used on the legs, underarms, face or bikini line. You can purchase hair removal creams at your local drug or discount store.
Function
Using a depilatory product is quite simple. The iVillage Beauty & Style site recommends holding a warm washcloth against your skin before applying a hair removal cream. The cream then can be applied to the desired area and left on for the amount of time specified by the manufacturer. After the allotted time is up, the product is scraped or wiped away with a washcloth or a spatula, and the dissolved hair goes with it.
Significance
Depilatories contain chemicals that break down the hair. Common ingredients include sodium and calcium thioglycolate. These chemicals were originally developed to remove hair from cattle hides during processing, according to hair removal advice at Dani'sT-Room.com. Most hair removal creams on the market today also contain moisturizers and fragrance to reduce the chemical odor.
Benefits
If you commonly cut yourself when shaving and don't like the pain of waxing, a hair removal cream will leave your skin smooth for up to a week. The hair is removed just under the surface of the skin, making depilatories longer lasting than shaving. Regrowth will be softer, without the coarse blunt edge left by shaving. Creams are most effective at removing finer hair, according to Dani'sT-Room.com.
Considerations
While depilatory creams often include a fragrance, the biggest complaint many people have is that they give off a strong chemical odor. Modern hair removal creams are less smelly than earlier versions, but you may still be bothered. Typically, the smell is worse as the cream works due to the chemical reaction between the depilatory and the hair, according to Sally Beauty. Good ventilation may reduce the odor somewhat.
Warning
Hair removal creams can irritate sensitive skin, even causing chemical burns. Do a patch test by applying a small amount of the cream to the inside of your arm. Remove in the allotted time, and check for redness, swelling or irritation. Discontinue use and clean with an antiseptic cleanser and treat with antibiotic ointment if irritation occurs, recommends iVillage Beauty & Style. Be especially conscientious of burning or irritation when using a hair removal cream on sensitive areas, like the face.
Member Comments