How depilatory cream works - how to use a depilator

Depilation of facial hair using a special cream is a method common mainly among the female population; Most men prefer to get rid of excess facial hair in a more traditional way - with a razor.

The use of cream for hair removal on the face is completely painless, it is less expensive and safer for the body than laser hair removal. However, this method has not only advantages, but also disadvantages that you need to know about before you start using it.

Hair removal with depilatory cream: how does it work?

Facial depilatory cream destroys hair. As a rule, it includes:

• dimethyl sulfoxide. This is the most aggressive element - it dissolves hairs on the surface of the skin (but the bulb remains intact, and after a certain time the hair will appear again, but darker than before);
• aloe and boswelli extracts - relieve inflammation;
• tocopherol - protects and restores skin cells;
• other chemical components (cream base).

Find out more about how hair removal cream works and how hair gets rid of. What does it consist of, the principle of action, is it harmful and what are the advantages of using it.

Benefits of hair removal

Depilation with cream has a lot in common with shaving. But still, this method has a number of significant advantages, thanks to which it is becoming more and more popular.

• Simplicity. The procedure can be successfully carried out at home: it does not require special skills or additional equipment.
• Painless. This is the most gentle way of depilation.
• Price . Depilation with cream is relatively inexpensive. Compared to laser hair removal, the price of the cream is much lower. But depilation with a razor or sugaring at home will cost less.
• Low morbidity . The skin is not subject to mechanical stress during the procedure. This makes it possible to avoid cuts and other microtraumas, as when shaving.
• Efficiency. It is possible to quickly remove hair from large areas.
• Comfortable to use. There are creams and foams that can be used in the shower. They do not need to remove hair and cream with a spatula. It is enough to wash away excess vegetation with a stream of water.
• The structure of the hair does not change. New hair does not become thicker or fuller.

Rules for choosing face cream

When choosing a cream for facial hair removal, you should remember that the main thing is the safety of the drug for the body. The components in its composition can cause severe allergic reactions, burns and other negative consequences. Therefore, when choosing, you need to consider:

• composition of the cream and personal tolerance to these substances;
• the time required to influence the hair (it is desirable that it be minimal);
• your skin type;
• smell. Facial hair removal creams do not have a delicate scent, but if you find it unpleasant, then it is better to avoid it;
• intensity and color of tertiary hairline;
• manufacturer;
• packaging integrity;
• shelf life of the drug and storage conditions;
• price.

Important!

The reason for the presence of a mustache above the upper lip in women may not only be heredity. It could be a hormonal imbalance. In this case, an endocrinologist can provide assistance. Statistics show that women who regularly use hormonal contraceptives do not have problems with mustaches.

Skin type

When choosing a depilatory cream, you should take into account your skin type . The packaging must indicate what skin type this product is intended for.

There are universal creams on sale , for example, Vit cream for facial hair removal, which is designed for all skin types (including hypersensitive ones).

However, before using the product, it must be tested:

• apply a small amount to delicate skin (behind the ear, on the bend of the elbow or the back of the wrist);
• wait a few minutes and wash off. If within several hours (up to a day) redness, itching, burning, irritation, dizziness, nausea and other reactions do not occur, the remedy is suitable for you.

Active substances

Removal of facial hair with depilatory cream occurs due to the presence of active substances in their composition. In addition to the dimethyl sulfoxide we have already mentioned, they most often contain thioglycolic acid, salts: thioglycolates of calcium, potassium, etc., hair softeners; alkalis that can destroy keratin, dissolve hairs , but do not damage the hair follicle.
The disadvantage of this effect is the need to apply the product after 2-3 days .
Some creams have the effect of suppressing hair follicles. In this case, hair germination occurs on the 4-5th day. Important! Using depilatory creams on the body to combat mustaches on the face is strictly unacceptable. Due to the high concentration of active substances, delicate facial skin can be seriously damaged.

Manufacturer

The manufacturer is also one of the indicators of whether it is worth purchasing this or that facial depilation cream. When evaluating a product, it is necessary to evaluate them according to the degree of effectiveness (speed of action), safety (gentleness to the skin) and price category.

The most popular and famous brands are those that have proven themselves on the positive side:

• Sally Hansen . This is first of all the cream “Brush-on Hair Remover Creme for face”. It acts effectively and gently, has a slight vanilla scent, and is in the middle price category. The effect of using the product is felt for 6-7 days;

• “Skin So Soft” facial depilatory cream Action time: 2.5 minutes. Economical packaging allows you to apply the cream precisely. The result after use is felt within 7-8 days. The disadvantages are an unpleasant pungent odor and the absence of a spatula; the cream should be removed with a damp cloth.

• The French company L'Etoile presented a depilatory cream for the face BODY NATUR . This cream has a mild effect. Within 5 minutes it effectively affects the hair, suitable for very sensitive skin. Does not have an unpleasant odor, contains chamomile extract and vitamin E. The downside is that it is quickly consumed;

• Spanish is a worthy competitor to French and American brands. Action time: 5-7 minutes. The tube is equipped with a convenient dispenser and applicator, which makes it easy to use the cream at home. The downside is a strong odor and an aggressive effect on the skin. After washing off any remaining product, you should use a special post-depilation cream on your face. Himani Boro antiseptic cream .

• The depilator from the Floresan , as they say, is not for everyone. Reviews on it are the most contrasting: some immediately refuse it, while for others it suits perfectly. The most famous product is the DEEP DEPIL line - “Delicate depilatory cream” with peach oil. Its budget price is also attractive;

• Veet is one of the leaders in popularity. Suitable for all skin types. The French-made product acts within 3-6 minutes. The set contains a special applicator. The smell is rather pleasant. Another property of Veet is that it inhibits hair growth;

• The Polish brand Eveline is represented by a whole line of depilatory products. Of these, “Ultra-gentle 9 in 1” received the largest number of positive reviews. The product works effectively, has a pleasant smell, plant extracts have a beneficial effect on the skin;

• Ukrainian product "Lady Caramel Ultra Gentle" attracts with its very affordable price and fairly high efficiency (impact time - 7-8 minutes). The smell is not so strong, the kit includes an applicator, the remaining cream is easily washed off with warm water;

• Depilator for sensitive areas with rose oil VELVET is an inexpensive but effective product (removes even coarse hair), has a pleasant pink aroma, does not irritate the skin, and has a long-lasting effect after use.

Packaging, expiration date, storage conditions

When purchasing a depilatory cream, you must ensure that the packaging is not damaged (all tubes must be hermetically sealed) and that the expiration date has not expired. The packaging must indicate what type of skin this product is suitable for (and the possibility of using it on the face).

You can buy the cream online, but by purchasing products this way, you will not receive any guarantees of proper storage of this product.
The best solution would be to purchase the drug in a specialty store or pharmacy. Did you know? In Europe in the 16th and 17th centuries. (especially in England and France), the practice of getting rid of facial hair began to gain particular popularity among women. This was caused by the fashion for a high forehead. To make the forehead visually appear higher, women got rid of their eyebrows. Since special depilatory creams appeared much later, only at the end of the 20th century, until that time fashionistas made do with walnut oil (rubbed onto their daughters’ foreheads from infancy), vinegar dressings, a mixture of quicklime, manure and dried bats.

How to choose the right one

Depilators in stores are presented in different price categories. Their operating principle is identical, the differences can be traced in the auxiliary components. When choosing a product, you need to focus on the following signs.

1. Trademark – rating positions in terms of effectiveness and safety are occupied by the products Veet, Batiste, Lady Caramel, Velvet. Large manufacturers have their own laboratories where new formulas are developed and tested. The quality of cosmetics is confirmed by certificates of conformity.
2. Skin type – for depilation on the face, it is important to familiarize yourself with the components of the composition. They must suit your skin type. Usually this information is indicated on the packaging or in the annotation. Well-known brands produce specialized and universal products that are suitable for any skin type.
3. Composition - all products contain aggressive compounds, due to which the hair structure is destroyed. The ideal option is a balanced list of components, which, in addition to alkalis, includes emollients: aloe vera, chamomile extract, cosmetic oils and other plant extracts.

To remove hair in delicate areas, it is recommended to choose a composition containing calcium thioglycolate. It works more gently, which reduces the risk of skin irritation.

How to properly remove facial hair with cream

Each product requires careful reading of the instructions and strict adherence to them.
Learn more about how to use the cream - general step-by-step instructions. This will not only allow you to use the drug more effectively, but will also protect you from harm to the body. Particular attention should be paid to the methods of application and removal, as well as for time.

How to prepare your skin

At the second stage, it is necessary to prepare the skin for depilation: clean it of cosmetics, fat, dust (especially in the area of ​​the mustache on the face).
To do this, it is better to wash your face with warm water and soap or gel and wipe your face dry with a towel. Important!
It should be remembered that you should never remove hair from the ears, nostrils, or near the eyes using a depilatory cream - this can cause harm to the body.

Application of the product

The next step is applying the cream.
It should be remembered that you need to be especially careful when applying depilatory cream for the face around the eyes, and avoid applying it to the eyebrows. It is also necessary to avoid damaged areas of the skin (wounds, scratches, etc.).

The product is applied in a thin or thick layer, depending on the instructions. After application, a timer is set (if you wait less, the product will not work; if you wait longer, it will cause burns).

Removing depilatory cream

After the required time has passed, the facial hair removal cream is removed:

• using a special applicator;
• using wet wipes;
• wash off with warm (cool) water without soap or other products.

Removal methods depend on the drug used and its instructions.

Then you need to wipe (not rub, but blot) your face with a towel and treat the skin with a special moisturizing cream, balm or gel (many depilatory products come with similar preparations). These products relieve irritation and also slow down hair growth.

The use of hair removal cream causes facial hair to grow more slowly. During the day after the procedure, you should not take sunbathing or a solarium, or use cosmetics.

How to use the product correctly

When using a hair removal product for the first time, you need to do an allergy test. A pea-sized amount of cream is distributed on a sensitive area of ​​the skin. After a few minutes, the reaction is assessed. The absence of severe redness and rash indicates the safety of the product.

Rules for using the cream

1. Clean the skin in the area where you plan to remove hair. You can simply wash your face with soap or use tonic or milk. Alcohol-containing compounds are prohibited!
2. Using an applicator spatula, apply a thick ball of cream onto dry skin (no need to rub in).
3. Leave the depilator on your face to dissolve the hair structure. The manufacturer indicates the exact time in the annotation or on the packaging.
4. Using a sponge or spatula, remove the cream along with the hairs with a light movement. Do not scrape the skin too much to avoid damaging it.
5. Rinse off any depilatory residue with warm water.

After the procedure, the skin becomes vulnerable, capable of reacting to a harmless cosmetic composition. Therefore, treatment with care products is not recommended. Thermal water will help calm it down.

After using the depilator, some stubble may remain. To get the best result, do not increase the exposure time of the cream. It is recommended to repeat the treatment after 5 days. Otherwise, the risk of burns increases.

Possible complications

The use of such drugs threatens with possible complications - we should not forget that they are based on very strong chemically active substances that can liquefy or burn hairs and will not spare delicate skin.

Even the presence of emollient and protective substances in creams that partially neutralize the harmful effects may be ineffective.
Did you know?
In ancient China, the wives of the emperor and noble women rubbed their faces with natural silk twice a day. Static electricity healed the epidermis and slowed down the growth of facial hair.

Is depilatory cream more effective than a razor?

Hair removal cream is better, according to forum users who have used razors so far. Cream hair removal in their opinion:

A good depilatory cream that removes hair quickly and effectively has a much better reputation than mechanical removal of unwanted hair.

An additional advantage of depilatory creams is that there are several lines to choose from:

In addition, various flavors and additional ingredients (for example, aloe or oils) make the depilation course more pleasant.

Plant extracts and oils care for the skin already at the treatment stage, and perfume compositions mask the specific odor of thioglycolic acid.

An additional advantage of depilatory creams is that they:

During the procedure, the epidermis is not subjected to mechanical irritation, so the skin does not redden or microflake.

Irritation

Irritation on the face after depilation with cream is a very common phenomenon. This is a normal reaction of the body to the effects of chemically active substances (especially during the first sessions).

Such irritations, as a rule, quickly disappear when using special balms, gels, etc. But sometimes they become protracted. In these cases, you should stop using this drug and consult a dermatologist. Even the best depilatory cream for the face can cause such a reaction.

Minor irritations can be relieved with moisturizing creams that contain aloe vera, chamomile, calendula, as well as decoctions of celandine, string and chamomile.

Before using anti-irritation products, the problem area of ​​the skin should be pre-treated with chlorhexidine, hydrogen peroxide or alcohol (dry).

Making cream at home

An analogue of almost any professional cosmetic product can be made at home. There are several ways to make your own depilatory cream.

For the first recipe you need 10 g of sodium sulfate, 10 g of potato starch, 5 g of glycerin, 60 ml of distilled water. All ingredients are mixed, applied to the skin, after 10 minutes the composition must be washed off and the skin lubricated with moisturizer.

For the second recipe you will need 1 tbsp. spoon of perhydrol and lanolin, 1/2 tbsp. spoons of Vaseline. The mixture of ingredients is applied to the skin and removed with a damp cloth after 5 minutes.

After depilation, apply nourishing cream to the skin

The depilation procedure has roots in the distant past. Previously, arsenic and slaked lime were used, which were applied to a separate area and removed after a while with a cloth.

The components included in home remedies are quite aggressive. Before using the composition, it is better to consult a dermatologist. Especially if your skin is sensitive.

Burns

Burns from cream on the face are also common. The alkaline environment is very active and can damage mucous membranes and sensitive skin. The causes of burns are:

• improper use of the drug (for example, using a product for depilation of body hair on the face);
• exceeding the time recommended in the instructions for which the product is applied;
• use of low-quality or counterfeit drug.

In case of a chemical burn, the area where the alkali burned the skin should be rinsed with cool water, blotted with a soft towel and applied Bepanten and Panthenol ointment.

Reviews

Svetlana, 35 years old

To remove hairs above the upper lip I used an Easy Depil depilator (Italy). I carried out the procedure according to the instructions, but after washing off the remaining cream I discovered redness of the skin. There was a burning sensation that caused discomfort. For the next seven days, she was treated for a chemical burn. The dermatologist said that the depilator is not suitable for sensitive skin.

Daria, 29 years old

I discovered a new facial hair removal product – Flawless. The bottle is made in the style of lipstick. The product works quickly and is suitable for use on any area of ​​the skin. The smell does not eat away at the eyes like other depilatories. I recommend!

Advantages and disadvantages of the method

Important!
Penetrating into the epidermis to a depth of 0.5 mm, the cream provides the highest quality results in removing body hair. After the procedure, there are no “black dots” on the skin that remain after using a razor.

There are both pros and cons to the process that goes into applying depilatory cream to your hair.

The advantages include:

• reasonable price for quality products;
• ease of use and step-by-step instructions for use;
• very rare occurrence of allergic reactions;
• moisturizing and nourishing the skin;
• no possibility of violating the integrity of the skin;
• use in hard-to-reach places;
• painlessness and complete absence of discomfort when applying the product;
• relatively short duration of the procedure - no more than 20 minutes;
• removal of vegetation of any length.

Disadvantages of depilatory creams:

• if the instructions are not followed and a preliminary test for skin sensitivity is neglected, an allergic reaction may occur;
• with frequent use, there is a risk of the body becoming accustomed to the components of the drug and reducing its effectiveness;
• short duration of the cream - no more than 7 days;
• using cream on an area with a hard hair structure leads to the need to use the most aggressive chemicals and increase the product’s stay on the skin. This can cause dryness of the epidermis and burns.

A properly selected product, when used correctly, quite easily and painlessly rids any area of ​​the skin of unwanted vegetation.

Possible consequences

After chemical depilation with cream, slight swelling, tingling or redness may sometimes appear. They usually last from 2–10 minutes to several hours, after which they disappear without a trace. But sometimes there are more serious cases, for which there are several reasons:

• poor-quality composition of the product;
• allergy to components;
• long holding time.

It is worth noting that the first point often becomes the reason for the second. As a result, the skin turns red entirely or in patches, and “pimples” or rashes appear on it. If the swelling does not go away for a long time, this may also indicate an allergy to the cream. If the negative consequences result in prolonged exposure of the product to the skin, then this is definitely a chemical burn.

An allergy to depilatory cream most often manifests itself in the form of a rash or redness

Too high a concentration of active substances in the cream can lead to damage to the upper layers of the epidermis, even if the procedure was done according to the instructions. This is especially dangerous for women with sensitive skin. In such a situation, the effect of “tightness” of the depilated area may be observed. There is also the possibility of cracks or even wounds. An incorrectly selected cream can aggravate the condition of dry skin so that it becomes noticeably flaky.

Important to remember. The face is a visible part of the body, a “facade” of a person that cannot be hidden in any way. For this reason, do not forget to be careful: before using the depilator, apply a small amount to the inner bend of the elbow. The cream should not burn or sting too much. After removing it, observe your skin for several hours. If no rash, redness, itching or other signs of an allergic reaction appear, the product can be used on the face.

In rare cases, irritation appears only 2–3 days after the procedure

To minimize the likelihood of undesirable consequences, carefully monitor the sensations during the application of the product: if the cream after application does not tingle slightly, but burns noticeably, it should be washed off immediately. You can soothe the skin and relieve irritation with panthenol, apricot oil or fresh chamomile infusion.

Contraindications

It is necessary to take into account a number of restrictions on the use of the cream; there is a possibility of an allergic reaction. Before use, you need to test the selected product.

Apply thin strips of cream to your wrist or elbow and wait no more than 10 minutes. In the absence of redness, itching, or irritation, it can be used to remove facial hair. Do not use products on the face designed for epilation of the bikini area; high concentrations of aggressive substances can cause burns.

Contraindications:

• allergy to the selected product;
• skin diseases in the acute phase;
• redness, acne in the epilation area;
• violation of the integrity of the integument;
• pregnancy, lactation.

Even when choosing an expensive depilatory cream, a chemical reaction cannot be ruled out. After the procedure, slight tingling, swelling, and sensitivity are possible. Side effects disappear within 20 minutes, but may persist for several hours. It is recommended to plan the process of removing unwanted vegetation before going to bed; all discomfort symptoms disappear overnight.

Stop Hair Spray

Stop Hair spray is a means to permanently remove hair without further costs for such procedures, as the manufacturer promises. Depilation with this product takes little time, which is sometimes very important if you have to remove hair in an emergency.

Stop Hair smells pleasant of almonds and does not stain clothes, its composition is safe, it does not contain hormonal substances and other elements that can harm the skin. Sold in a volume of 125 ml, the bottle has a convenient spray.

Stop Hair spray works like this: its action is aimed directly at the follicle, and not at the hair. When the components of the product enter the bulb, they deactivate its operation, after which the hair gradually stops growing. But before using the spray, you need to provide it with access to the follicles, and for this, depilation with this product must be preceded by another hair removal with complete release of the follicle so that it remains open. For this purpose, plucking, waxing or sugaring are suitable, pulling out each hair along with the root.

Tannins and various active ingredients are all included in the drug, which really helps to stop hair growth forever. But to achieve the full effect, Stop Hair spray must be applied once every 3 days. Possible redness that appears after depilation is considered a normal reaction and goes away within an hour.

Compared to conventional products, be it any other cream, gel or spray, Stop Hair actually removes hair permanently with a 100% guarantee. Depilation with this product does not require any preliminary preparation, excluding mechanical hair removal using other methods. It should be used like this:

1. apply to the problem area;
2. wait 10 minutes;
3. remove the spray from the skin, rinse the treated area with water;
4. do the same thing 1 time for 3 days.

Spray composition:

• water;
• tannin;
• calcium hydroxide;
• fragrances;
• polyacrylamides;
• calcium thioglycolate.

It is not advisable to use Stop Hair spray for women during breastfeeding, persons under 18 years of age, and if there are skin problems at the site of intended depilation.

DIY cream

There are many homemade recipes for hair removal that are effective with constant use.
One of them is a cream based on honey and lemon juice. Recipe. Mix 2 tbsp. honey and 2 tsp. lemon juice. Using a swab, apply the product to the skin, moving in the direction of hair growth. Rinse off the mixture after 15 minutes.

Do the procedure 2 times a week for a month. This cream is suitable for depilation on legs and arms.

If you decide to try a depilatory cream, when choosing it, pay attention to the following features - area of ​​application, expiration date, composition. How to get rid of stretch marks on your butt is written here. The best pregnancy creams against stretch marks are here.