For most people, hair removal creams are a safe and effective way to remove unwanted hair and can be used on any part of the body. Consisting of a texture similar to body lotion, hair removal creams are applied directly to the skin in the area of unwanted hair growth and are then wiped away only moments later. While not a permanent solution for hair removal, the effects of creams can last 4-5 days longer than shaving.
The question most people want to know about hair removal creams is: "how do they really work?"
Hair removal creams are depilatory agents, meaning that the hair removal occurs at or above the top layer of skin. Essentially, hair removal creams are composed of chemicals that weaken and dissolve the hair follicle, much in the same way that cleansing agents dissolve dirt. Any part of the follicle that is not completely dissolved will be so weakened by the hair removal cream that it will be easy to simply wipe the residue away with a warm towel, thereby leaving the skin smooth and hair free.
In general, the best method for applying hair removal cream is to wait until after a hot shower. The steam and hot water will loosen the hair follicle and actually have the effect of stretching it further past the layer of the skin than if the hair removal cream were applied to skin that is body-temperature.
Apply the hair removal cream liberally across the skin in the affected area. Dab the cream onto the skin; don't rub, as rubbing will force the hair removal cream into the pores of the skin, thereby risking the chances of the cream becoming unduly invasive. Let the cream sit for 5-8 minutes, or as directed on the packaging.
Once the allotted period of time is over, use a warm washcloth to completely remove all traces of the hair removal cream from the skin. Rinse the skin in warm water to cleanse the pores. If necessary, you can even step back into the shower. Avoid using any other chemical products on the skin, including lotions and makeup, for 2-3 hours. If the skin becomes dry and red, it is okay to apply a small amount of mineral oil in the affected area.
It is important to note that while hair removal creams are effective, they perform the same basic functions as shaving, but with considerably more need for precaution. It is advised that one never leave the hair removal cream on the skin for longer than the amount of allotted time on the packaging. If the hair removal cream is left on for too long, the user runs the risk of damaging and even scarring sensitive skin. Therefore, it is also advised that one purchase and use a cream that has a mineral oil component, as hair removal creams containing mineral oil tend to be less abrasive to the skin.
It is also not advised that one uses a hair removal cream while also on other medications, such as Retin-A, as the chemical components of the two medications may interact. One should never use a hair removal cream around the eyes, even in small dabs. Using a hair removal cream on the face is generally not a great idea.
Hair removal creams are safe, effective and a great method of removing unwanted hair. The effects last for up to 3-4 days longer than traditional shaving and are often less time consuming to apply than shaving. If you haven't tried this hair removal method yet, take the plunge! You'll love the results of smoother skin.
