Side Effects of Depilatory Creams
Depilatory creams contain harsh chemicals, such as sodium and calcium thioglycolate. In the 1930s, depilatory creams were patented to remove hair from livestock. However, since then the formula has been adapted to be used on human skin. Though the creams are a relatively painless method of hair removal for most people, those with sensitive skin may suffer adverse effects when using depilatory creams. Does this Spark an idea?
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Function
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Depilatory creams are a painless way to remove unwanted hair from the body. Hair is made out of a hard protein called keratin. Depilatory creams contain chemicals that dissolve the keratin just below the base of the skin. This allows you to easily wipe away hair with a cloth once the depilatory has been given a chance to take effect.
Side Effects
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Depilatory creams are notorious for their strong smell. Because the harsh chemicals in depilatory creams dissolve hair, they will fittingly reek of chemicals and burning hair. People may also experience a sensation ranging from a light tingle to full-on burning. Other side effects of depilatory creams are redness, skin irritation (e.g. rash-like bumps) and sensitivity.
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Prevention/Solution
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The most effective way to prevent the side effects associated with depilatory creams is to use the product exactly as directed and in areas of the body which are deemed safe. Doing a patch test will allow you to assess how your skin will react to the cream; you'll either get the green light or be alerted to discontinue use. If the odor is one of your concerns, you can purchase a fragrant formula that effectively masks the harsh smell of depilatory creams.
Uses
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Depilatory creams can be harsh on the skin, it's best to apply regular formulas to areas that can aren't sensitive. Folica.com recommends that depilatory creams be used for hair removal in the legs, bikini line and underarms. If you'd like to use a depilatory cream for facial hair, you'll have to purchase a cream specifically formulated for the face as they're made for hypersensitive skin.
Benefits
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Because you aren't putting a sharp object to your skin (e.g. shaving), you eliminate the risk of nasty nicks and cuts. Depilatory creams are a relatively effortless and efficient hair-removal method. Most depilatory creams take less than 10 minutes to take effect. All you have to do is slather the cream over the area and wait. Depilatory creams are typically less than $10 (as of 2009) and can be purchased at drugstores and supermarkets.
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