Pros and Cons of Depilatory Creams

Ida Fanelli
Feb 21, 2023
3 min read

Updated: Jun 7, 2024

Pros and Cons of Depilatory Creams

Depilatory creams are hair removal products that contain alkaline chemicals with a pH range of 12.0 to 12.5. The high pH causes the hair shaft to swell, enabling the cream to dissolve and break down the hair. Testing a small area first is essential when using a depilatory cream, as some people may be more sensitive than others. The formula can also dissolve dead skin cells, leading to ingrown hairs. If not used properly, depilatory creams can burn the skin with a pH of 4.5-5.5. Allergic reactions may include swelling, welts, rash, hives, difficulty breathing, and dizziness. The FDA's Office of Cosmetics and Colors has received reports of burns, blisters, stinging, itchy rashes, and skin peeling associated with depilatories. Redness, rawness, or stinging may take a few days to appear.

The chemicals in depilatories, such as sodium thioglycolate, calcium thioglycolate, and strontium sulphide, break down the hair's protein bonds. After using a depilatory cream, the skin is more prone to sunburn, so it is essential to use suitable sun protection.

To avoid skin irritation:

Do not use glycolic acid, retinol, exfoliating acids, or scrubs for three days before applying a depilatory cream.
Wait three days after using a depilatory cream before resuming these products.
If you plan to undergo IPL or laser treatments, wait six weeks after using a depilatory cream to prevent your skin from burning.

The depilatory cream does not enter the hair shaft, and the results are similar to shaving. The cream's effects may last longer since it penetrates slightly deeper than shaving, and the regrowth speed varies depending on the individual's hair growth cycle.

Pros:

Depilatory creams are an affordable hair removal option that is easy to use at home.

They are less painful than waxing or other hair removal methods that involve pulling out hair from the roots.

They work quickly and can remove hair from large areas of the body.

The results are smoother and last longer than shaving.

Easier to use in hard-to-reach areas

There are many options for different areas of the body.

Depilatory cream research shows this hair removal option increases hair growth in animals. Shaving also improves the hair growth of follicles. Both do not damage the hair follicle.

Waxing, sugaring, tweezing, threading, and epilators pull the hair, eventually destroying the follicle with repetition.

Depilatory creams dissolve the hair using alkaline chemicals, without cutting or pulling the hair out. However, following the instructions carefully and testing a small area first is still essential to ensure no adverse reaction.

Cons:

Depilatory creams contain alkaline solid chemicals that can irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions.

The chemicals can dissolve hair and skin cells, leading to ingrown hairs and skin peeling.

Depilatory creams have a distinct odour that some people find unpleasant.

The results may not be as long-lasting as other hair removal methods, such as waxing or laser hair removal.

Finding the correct depilatory cream for your skin type and hair thickness may take trial and error.

Conclusion

Please don't use the body formulas on your face. They have more chemicals to remove the hair than the facial depilatories. Hydrated hair is easier to remove than dry hair since it's harder and takes longer to dissolve. I recommend consulting a doctor before trying any hair removal method, especially if you have a bleeding disorder like hemophilia. They can advise you on the best hair removal option and help you minimize the risks.

I've listed several depilatory creams specific for Manzilians, Guyzilians or Brozilians.

They are highly rated—a razor-free option outside of waxing, sugaring or IPL.

Intimate/Private Hair Removal Cream for Men, - For Unwanted Male Hair in Intimate/Private Area, Effective & Painless Depilatory Cream, Suitable for All Skin Types Available on Amazon Affiliate