Depilatory Creams: A Painless Alterative of Removing Unwanted Hair
Removing unwanted hair from the body has been practiced by almost all human cultures. Certain codes of conduct are in play concerning hair and the removal of it in society, and those who do not adhere to these
aesthetical codes can face major social problems. Consequently many different methods have been developed to remove superfluous hair. The use of cream and chemical depilatories is one popular and effective
technique to temporary eliminate excessive and culturally unaccepted body hair with immediate results.
The History of Depilatory Creams
Depilatory creams date back as far as 4000 – 3000 BC when women made their own creams which contained ingredients such as starch and arsenic to remove the hair from their bodies. In Roman times creams were
modified and developed and were seen as a popular alternative to the bloody mess caused by blades. In the 19th century it was popular for women to experiment with homemade depilatory creams which contained
more natural ingredients such as wine, oak and walnut oil. Today, depilatory creams continue to be an effective method of removing unwanted hair from the body.
How Hair Removal Cream Works
Unlike other methods which destroy the follicle of the hair, depilatory creams work by removing the part of the hair above the surface of the skin. The hair is made up of a protein called keratin, and
depilatory creams contain a mixture of slightly caustic chemicals including sodium and calcium thioglycolate, which break the bonds that link the keratin together and give hair its strength. After several
minutes the chemicals dissolve the keratin in the shaft of the hair at the surface of the skin causing the hair to fall out.
How to use Hair Removal Creams
Whilst using hair removal creams is a simple and straightforward procedure, there are certain steps which need to be followed in order to achieve optimum results. Firstly, a small test patch should always be
performed prior to applying the cream to a larger area, as some people can be sensitive to the chemicals in the cream. If an adverse reaction does take place, the skin tested will turn red and may itch and
cause irritation. For the majority of people however, no such reaction occurs and they can continue to apply the cream. Ensure that the area where the cream is to be applied is clean, dry and free from any
oils or lotions, as these products can prevent the chemicals from working properly. Also always guarantee the area is free from any cuts or irritation, as hair removal cream applied to broken skin can be
very uncomfortable. Apply the cream generously but without going overboard, ensuring that the whole area is covered. It is important not to rub the cream in, instead use the spatula that is usually provided
with the cream and gently dab it onto the skin. Leave the cream on for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer. Do not guess the time, use a watch and remove the cream when stated as leaving it on
for too long can cause burning and irritation of the skin. Remove the cream and the hair with the spatula provided, scraping the residue in a downwards motion. Rinse with warm water to ensure all of the
depilatory cream has been removed and the area is clean. Dry the skin and if an after lotion has been provided with the cream, apply some liberally. Alternatively, a mild body lotion can be used to help
soothe and moisten the skin. Refrain from using any harsh products on the area for several days as they could irritate the skin.
The Advantages of Depilatory Creams
Unlike most other hair removal methods, using creams to accomplish hair free skin is completely painless. Given this fact, depilatory creams are the ideal solution to removing hair from sensitive areas such as
the bikini line, and also areas where it can be difficult to shave like the underarms. Depilatory creams are an inexpensive method of hair removal.
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Depilatory creams date back as far as 4000 – 3000 BC when women made their own creams which contained ingredients such as starch and arsenic to remove the hair from their bodies. In Roman times creams were
modified and developed and were seen as a popular alternative to the bloody mess caused by blades. In the 19th century it was popular for women to experiment with homemade depilatory creams which contained
more natural ingredients such as wine, oak and walnut oil. Today, depilatory creams continue to be an effective method of removing unwanted hair from the body.
