Removing body hair is part of everyday hygiene for many women, but it takes more time. Depilatory creams are touted as an alternative to regular shaving – but are they really more effective?
In contrast to the usual wet shave, depilatory creams are chemically based – and thus promise a gentle removal of unwanted hair. The active ingredients contained therein react with the skin, and the following processes take place: First, the natural protective acid layer is broken through to open the pores. The caustic soda (thioglycolic acid) contained in the depilatory cream then attacks the protein structure, called keratin for short, of the hair. Translated, this means: The hairs dissolve and remain on the skin as a gel-like mass. And this is exactly what you can easily wipe off with a spatula at the end. At least that’s the theory.
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The pros and cons of depilatory creams
Advantages:
- For many women, daily shaving is associated with pain because the skin is constantly irritated – razor burn in combination with redness or pimples are the result. Using a depilatory cream, on the other hand, is completely pain free.
- The application is easy and uncomplicated: You apply the cream, let it take effect for a short time and then wash it off again, along with the hairs. A quick and effective method that – in contrast to professional waxing or lasering – clearly cheaper is.
- You never run the risk of cutting yourself while shaving. Apart from that, your skin stays after application longer smooth and supple, since the hairs have to grow back and are not already lurking just below the surface.
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Many manufacturers like the Veet brand offer depilatory creams for every skin type to: Ob normal, sensitive or dry – You can choose between different products that suit you and your personal needs.
Disadvantage:
- Due to the chemicals they contain, depilatory creams also come with risks such as skin irritation. To find out if your body might react allergic you should test the cream on a small area of your body before using it for the first time.
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Not every depilatory cream is automatically suitable for the intimate area or you face. In any case, before use, be sure to read the instructions on the packaging – and be sure to always protect yours mucous membranes before direct contact.
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The chemical miracle cures can and should only be used healthy skin be used. Is this irritated or even hurtit is strongly discouraged to smear and treat your legs or armpits with a depilatory cream (regardless of the manufacturer).
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How to use the depilatory cream correctly
Shaving is not rocket science, but you should note a few important points when using depilatory creams: Apply the cream only to the part of the body that you want to depilate at the moment – avoid spreading it over a large area. Only allow the ingredients to work for as long as it says on the package insert. Otherwise your skin may become irritated. Then remove the loosened hair with the spatula provided and rinse your skin with warm water so that no cream residue remains on it. In order to activate the protective acid mantle of your skin after shaving, you should use a moisturizing lotion cream. Use a product that is fragrance and alcohol free.
You might also be interested in:
- Painful razor burn: women have to be aware of this
- Remove the lady’s beard – this is how you get rid of the annoying hairs
- You can use these techniques to remove facial hair
- razor test: Click here for the shaver comparison.
- Wet razor test: Click here for the wet razor comparison.
There is more information here.
Source: Stern
