Hair removal: depilatory creams

If waxing or shaving seems a drag, depilatory cream may be the answer

If you're in a hurry to remove unwanted hair, using a depilatory cream is a simple temporary solution. These creams are easy to apply and they work by removing hair just below the skin's surface. Their disadvantage is that the chemicals they contain to 'burn' off the hair can also irritate skin, so those who react sensitively may have to find another option for hair removal. Depilatory creams should never be used around the eye area.

For best results, apply a warm washcloth to the overgrown area, as this will soften hair and open the follicles, allowing the depilatory to be better absorbed. Never exceed the recommended time for leaving the cream on the skin. When removing the cream, use a washcloth to wipe it off instead of simply rinsing it off, as additional pressure can help remove more of the hair shaft. This type of hair removal lasts several days.

Depilatory creams contain sodium thioglycolate and calcium thioglycolate, chemicals that dissolve the keratin that make up the hair. When these chemicals mix with the hair, it produces an unpleasant sulphur-like odour that goes away when the cream is rinsed off.

Test depilatory cream on your forearm before using it on a larger section of your skin. This will help you to determine whether there will be an adverse reaction (some products may cause skin discoloration or staining, while others provoke allergies). If your skin breaks out when using a depilatory cream, wash the area with an antibacterial solution like Betadine and apply an antibiotic such as Neosporin or cortisone cream to reduce the inflammation. Never apply a depilatory to an area that has any cuts, scratches or other wounds.