A depilatory is a cream, lotion, or gel that is used to remove unwanted hair on the face and body. The main active ingredients in depilatory creams are thioglycolic acid and its salts, such as potassium and calcium thioglycolates, and pure thioglycolic acid. These acids break down the keratin protein naturally found in hair, making it structurally unstable and allowing it to be wiped away painlessly. Depilatory creams can be used on almost every area of the body, including sensitive places like the face and bikini area.
Positive aspects of using depilatory creams include that they are efficient, effective, and painless. They are also more affordable than some other hair removal techniques, such as waxing or laser hair removal. Compared to shaving, depilatory creams don’t irritate the skin and leave fewer skin lesions or papules.
Negative aspects of using depilatory creams include that they can cause allergic reactions, chemical burns, irritation, blisters, skin peeling, and rash. The compounds in depilatories can also react with protein in the skin, albeit at a much slower rate, so depilatories must be left on the skin for only a short while.
It is important to do a patch test before using a depilatory cream to make sure that your skin won’t have an adverse reaction. It is also important to use depilatory creams exactly as specified by the manufacturer to avoid any negative effects on the skin.
