Depilatories

Depilatories   come in a few different forms -- creams, lotions, gels and waxes. All of these products are an inexpensive and easy way to remove unwanted hair from the surface of the skin at home. The difference between these types of depilatories lies in their convenience and results. This guide will discuss the pros and cons of each, including some of the best-rated products.

Creams, Lotions and Gels

How They Work : Depilatory creams, lotions and gels use chemicals to dissolve the hair on the surface of the skin.

• Application
• Depilatory creams are easy to use for the most part.
• There are different formulas for different parts of the body so choose accordingly.
• Some lotions and gels might not be thick enough to stick to the skin and will run. Creams though, are usually quite good at staying in place.
• Sprays are not as easy to apply and can be a hassle.
• For ease of application, choose a no mess roll-on depilatory.
• Results
• They don't remove every last bit of hair like a razor would, but they do come close. This could be a positive or negative thing depending on the experience you've previously had with hair removal. For example, if you tend to get razor burn or ingrown haris (usually caused by shaving with a disposable razor) a depilatory may eliminate that problem.
• The length of time before hair grows back depends on how quickly your hair grows naturally.
• Usually you will have to use the product again two to four days afterwards.
• Complications
• Completely painless to use and they won't cause nicks and cuts like shaving.
• The chemicals may cause a bad reaction for those with irritable and sensitive skin, so ALWAYS do a spot test before using these products.
• Since there are depilatories made for "sensitive areas," buy those when using on the bikini area, underarms or face. Regular depilatories are NOT meant for sensitive areas.
• Note that this type of depilatory has a distinct smell to it, which may or may not be unpleasant to some users.
• Tips for Use
• Always follow directions!
• Use after bathing when your pores are open.
• Don't use on open skin (cuts, nicks, abrasions, mosquito bites).
• Use a timer or stopwatch so you can tell exactly how long the product needs to stay on. If it stings at all remove it at once with warm water. Again, this is why a spot test is encouraged.
• Don't scrub or be rough with your skin after using these products.

You might want to try:

• Aussie Nad's Creme  
• Epil-Ease  
• Moon Hair Removal Kit  
• Nair No Touch Mousse  
• Sally Hansen Spa Gel for Body  
• Veet Bladeless Razor Kit  

Waxes and Sugars

How They Work : Heated hard wax adheres to the hairs once it cools. Then, using either a paper or cloth strip, the wax is pulled from the skin, bringing the hair, root and all, along with it. Some easy waxing kits don't require microwaving wax but come with waxed strips that you can just warm in your hands, peel, apply and pull. Basically, this type of wax helps cut down on hassle and messiness. The pain though is the same. Sugaring involves a more grainy, sticky substance that mainly removes the hair from the surface of the skin. A porous strip is used to rip off the hair.

• Application
• Not easy to apply and it takes some practice to get the method right.
• For most products, you have to heat wax before using and sometimes during the process, which can be a hassle.
• Wax can drip and be messy.
• Results
• When done properly, you can usually remove all unwanted hair without a problem.
• The results are good for home application, but they aren't comparable to a salon visit. The price for at-home waxing can't be beat though.
• Results last longer than shaving or using other depilatories, from three to eight weeks depending on the individual.
• This type of hair removal helps hair grow back softer and slower.
• Complications
• One word: pain. That's not to say that you won't get used to it as time goes on.
• Some people can get ingrown hairs if they are not experienced or if they have sensitive skin.
• Many hard waxes require using a wax pot heater to keep it warm during the application process.
• Tips for Use
• ALWAYS follow directions and do a spot test before using the product.
• Use after bathing when your pores are open.
• Don't use on open skin (cuts, nicks, abrasions, mosquito bites).
• Avoid using on varicose veins.

You might want to try the following waxes:

• Aussie Nad's Hair Removal Gel  
• GIGI Brazilian Body Hard Wax  
• GIGI Brazilian Bikini Wax Microwave Formula  
• Hair Off Facial Wax Strips  
• Nair Roll-On Sugaring Wax  
• Poetic Waxing Kit  
• Sally Hansen Spa Wax Hair Removal Kit  
• Surgi-Wax  
• Veet Gel Wax Strips  
• Zip Wax  

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