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Hair Removal Cream

Hair Removal Cream

In this article we’ll look at one common method of home hair removal: depilatory cream.

How to use hair removal creams

If you choose to ditch the fuzz, there are plenty of options for at-home hair removal. In this article, we’ll look at how to use hair removal cream for easy hair removal.

 

What is hair removal cream?

Hair removal cream - Cream

Hair removal cream, also known as depilatory cream, contains certain alkaline chemicals that react with hair, breaking down keratin and causing the hair to dissolve just below the surface of the skin. This dissolved hair, along with the cream, can then be easily wiped off or washed away.

As the hair is dissolved just below the skin, you can stay stubble-free for up to 4 days. As well as this, where shaving causes hairs to become blunt, hair removal cream leaves hair with a tapered end.

 

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Preparing to use hair removal cream

You will want to start by choosing the right hair removal cream for you. Popular hair removal and depilatory brands include Veet or Nair. If you have sensitive skin, you will want to use hair removal cream specially designed for this. There are also spray-on hair removal creams and hair removal creams for use on the face.

Before using hair removal cream for the first time, you should do a patch test. This ensures you aren’t allergic to the formula.

When you have picked the right formula and done your patch test, you should exfoliate the area of skin you’ll be using it on. This ensures it can do its job properly, without any dead skin cells, dirt, oils, or moisturisers affecting the formula.

 

How to apply hair removal cream

Before using hair removal cream be sure to read the package instructions carefully.

  • Apply an even layer of cream over the hairs, fully covering them. Do not rub this cream in and immediately wash excess cream off your hands.
  • Leave the cream to get to work for at least 5 minutes, then test a small area to see if the hair comes away easily. If it does, remove the rest of the cream. If not, leave the cream on for a bit longer. Be sure not to exceed any maximum time limits stated on the package instructions.
  • Rinse your skin thoroughly with water to ensure all cream has been removed, then dry.

 

What to apply after hair removal cream and aftercare

Hair removal cream - Legs

Your skin might be a little red or itchy after use, this is normal. You might find it useful to wear loose clothing and make sure you don’t scratch the area. If the redness and discomfort continue for a prolonged period or get worse, you should contact your doctor.

You should follow any warning in the package instructions, such as not sunbathing, swimming or tanning for 24 hours. You should also avoid using hair removal cream in the same area for 72 hours.

After using hair removal cream, you might find your skin is more sensitive than usual. Applying a cold washcloth to the area can help calm and soothe your skin and applying hydrocortisone cream can help reduce irritation and inflammation. Try to keep the area hydrated by regularly applying a body moisturising cream to lock in the moisture or a healing ointment such as Sudocrem or Bepanthen Intensive Care Ointment. If your skin frequently becomes irritated after using hair removal creams, it's a good idea to take a break to allow your skin to recover. If your skin continues to feel sore or gets worse after using hair removal cream, you should get advice from your doctor.

 

Hair removal cream: What to know

Hair removal cream can be a great way to effectively get rid of unwanted hair. Before you start using hair removal cream, make sure you follow these tips.

 

When can you start using hair removal cream?

The correct age to start using hair removal cream depends on individual choice. While most hair removal creams are safe to use on all skin types, even teenage skin, it's advisable that teenagers under 16 use hair removal cream with adult supervision.

 

Can you use hair removal cream on your face?

You want to avoid using hair removal cream on your face, as it can cause irritation.

 

Can you use hair removal cream on your head?

As the skin on your face and scalp can be very sensitive, using hair removal creams on your head is not recommended.

 

Can you use hair removal cream in your private area?

There are hair removal creams designed especially for the bikini area. However, these should never be applied directly to the genitals as there is a greater risk of irritation, skin allergies and infection.

 

How often can you use hair removal cream?

You should allow at least 72 hours between each application of hair removal cream to avoid causing soreness and redness.

 

Is hair removal cream better than shaving?

While removing hair with a razor cuts the hair at skin level, hair removal cream dissolves the hair at the root. This leaves you hair-free for longer, and the hair grows back softer than shaving.

 

Can you use hair removal cream before laser treatment?

It's recommended that you use hair removal cream no later than three days before laser treatment, as the laser needs the root to be intact for the treatment to be effective.

 

Do hair removal creams last longer than shaving?

As hair removal creams remove the hair below the skin's surface at the follicle, the results last longer than shaving. You can expect regrowth to appear after two to three days.

 

Is hair removal cream safe?

Most people use hair removal creams without any discomfort or skin irritation. It's a good idea to do a patch test at least 24 hours before using hair removal cream to check that it doesn't cause a reaction. Always avoid using hair removal creams on sore, weeping or cracked skin.

 

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