Burns From a Hair Remover

Chemical hair removers are most commonly used by women to remove hair in sensitive spots.

Chemical hair removers are commonly used to remove hair in sensitive areas such as the bikini area, upper thighs, chin and lip. If used properly, chemical hair removers are safe. They do not cause damage unless the skin is exposed to the hair remover for an extended period of time.

Process

Chemical hair removers get rid of unwanted hair by breaking down the hair or causing it to disintegrate. Chemical removers will break down any living, organic material it comes into contact with including skin. The skin does not break down as easily as hair, which makes it possible to place the product directly on the skin to remove hair.

Cause

Burns from a hair remover are caused from prolonged exposure to the chemical. Leaving the remover on too long, or failing to rinse away the chemical completely, leads to a breakdown of the skin resulting in a chemical burn.

Appearance

Chemical burns are red and scaly. In severe cases, puss oozes from the wound.

Prevention

Remove all clothing in the area where hair removal will take place. Do not leave the remover on for longer than the recommended time, and rinse the remover completely away.

Treatment

Minor burns can be treated with antibiotic ointment, burn ointment or aloe. Second and third-degree burns require medical attention.

References

• "Milady's Standard Textbook of Cosmetology;" Milady, Diane Carol Bailey, Margrit Attenburg; 2008