How Depilatories Work and Why You Should Use Them…
Depilatories – also called hair removal creams – work by dissolving protein bonds within the hair shaft. These proteins break down and are wiped off the skin’s surface with a cloth (some depilatories include spatulas for easy wiping).
What chemicals are in depilatories? Are they harmful?
Depilatory creams contain one or two active ingredients: sodium or calcium thioglycolate Both chemicals are responsible for breaking down proteins in hair shafts. While they are safe if used correctly, both chemicals can burn skin if left on for too long.
Like most hair removal methods, it is advised to conduct a patch test before widespread use. Choose a small, inconspicuous area to apply depilatory cream. Some people have allergic reactions to sodium or calcium thioglycolate.
What precautions should I take with depilatory creams?
The proteins in skin are similar to those in hair, so prolonged exposure to depilatories can cause redness, swelling or burning. Never leave depilatories on for extended periods of time. Depending upon which hair removal cream you choose, application should last between five and fifteen minutes.
Do hair removal creams work on all body parts?
For the most part, yes. However, depilatory creams are designed for certain body parts. For example, Nair is used for legs, while Vaniqa is designed for facial hair removal.
One place you should never use depilatories are the eyebrows, as it may irritate the eye. If you have sensitive or recently burned skin, do not apply any cream.
Do depilatories work for men and women?
Yes, but some hair removal creams such as Vaniqa have not been tested on men. Learn more about the safety of male hair removal creams.
How long does hair removal last?
Most hair removal creams claim 4 – 5 days, which is a few days more than shaving. Some users have reported up to two weeks hair removal with Nair, though these are not typical results.
How long have depilatories been used?
Depilatory creams have been around for centuries. In the past, women used walnut oil and white wine as a form of hair removal. In the 1920′s depilatory creams first entered the market, though the most popular depilatory cream – a topical cream invented by Dr. Kenneth Nair – did not appear until the 1940s.
I’ve tried depilatories before and they smell. Why is that?
Many users report a rotten-egg smell. The cause is sulfur, which is either the sulfuric bonds in hair proteins, or thioglycolate when exposed to hair. There is very little anyone can do to avoid this.
Do depilatories cause ingrown hairs?
Sometimes. The best method to prevent ingrown hairs is washing with hot water and soap for several minutes prior to treatment. The soap washes off oils which hinder depilatories, while hot water opens the skin’s pores, making hair removal more likely.
Do depilatories come in forms besides cream?
Yes. While creams are the most popular, depilatories also come in the form of lotions, gels, sprays and roll-ons.
What are the benefits of depilatories vs. shaving/waxing?
Depilatories remove hair for several days longer than shaving, and does not leave razor burns. It is also less painful than shaving or waxing (though waxing yields longer results).
Pros and Cons of Depilatories
Pros:
- Fast
- Pain-free
- Relatively inexpensive
- Better results than shaving
- Works on all skin/hair colors
- Use at home
- No experience necessary
Cons:
- Unpleasant smell
- Can burn skin if left on too long
- Possible allergic reactions
- Some require prescriptions (Vaniqa)
What are the most popular brands of depilatories?
The three most popular are Veet, Nair Vaniqa. The first two are over-the-counter, while Vaniqa requires a prescription (which can be obtained from any doctor, not a specialist). Read more on the top three female hair removal creams.
