A depilatory is a preparation in the form of a liquid or cream that is used to remove unwanted hair from the body. The word depilatory, pronounced "di-pila-toree", literally means "to deprive of hair" (Latin pilus, hair).

What is the difference between a depilatory and an epilatory?

A depilatory removes hair on the skin's surface. An epilatory such as waxing or tweezing (plucking) removes the hair from below the skin's surface taking out the hair follicle.

How does a depilatory work?

Depilatories contain chemicals with a high degree of acidity (low pH) such as sodium thioglycolate, or calcium thioglycolate. They react with the protein structure of hair breaking it down.

Depending on the coarseness of hair, within 5 to 15 minutes, the hair is dissolved into a gloopy mass which can then be washed away.

Hair that is dark and coarse appears to be more resistant to chemical depilatories than hair that is light and fine.

Why does skin feel so smooth after applying a depilatory?

A depilatory acts as an exfolient which means it removes dead skin cells on the surface of the skin. These dead skin cells accumulate every day and they often feel rough. After removal the skin feels softer and smoother.

Many depilatories contain moisturizers such as Baby Oil, Almond Oil, Green Tea Extract and Aloe which contribute to softer smoother skin.

Which is best - a depilatory cream or liquid?

A depilatory lotion or liquid is designed for larger areas of the body such as the legs, underarms and bikini area.

A depilatory cream has a thicker consistency so it can be applied to specific areas without the risk of it running onto skin you don't want treated. A cream is therefore ideal for the face.

What are the pros and cons of depilatories?

PROS: Easy to apply, widely available over the counter, quick.

CONS: Possible allergic skin reaction to the strong chemicals, messy application, unpleasant odor, results vary widely.

Depilatories: How to Get The Best Results

A depilatory is best used after a warm bath or shower when the hair is softer and the pores of the skin are open.

Never use a depilatory where there are wounds on the skin such as cuts or abrasions or on skin sensitive from sunburn.

Apply the depilatory in a generous, smooth, thick layer. Do not rub it in.

Always test a small area of skin first. A small patch on the inner arm below the elbow is a good place.

Keep the application on the skin for the time recommended in the instructions and remove. Wait 24 hours. If there are no signs of irritation or allergic reaction such as redness or broken skin then proceed over a larger area.

Follow the timing instructions very closely by setting a timer and removing the chemical immediately the timer signal goes off. Do not exceed the time recommended to avoid burning or damaging the skin.

If the skin becomes itchy or irritated discontinue use of the depilatory and apply a soothing gel such as Aloe Vera or an anti-inflammatory skin cream.

To minimize irritation, try not to exfoliate (through scrubbing, or using a mask or cleansing agent) beforehand and be sure to follow up with a thorough rinsing and moisture-rich cream.

After using a depilatory, apply sunscreen to areas that will be exposed to the sun.

To avoid damaging underlying layers of skin, some recommend not using a depilatory more than every 28 days. Generally, a new outer layer of skin is formed every 28 days.

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Nair depilatories are also very popular and easy to use.

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