If you are tired of constantly shaving, but don't want to experience the pain of waxing, hair removal cream may be the perfect solution for your cosmetic needs. It is a quick, easy and inexpensive hair removal technique. Read on to learn how to use this product safely and effectively for smooth skin for up to a week.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Preparing to Use the Hair Removal Cream
Step 1. Find the right cream for your skin
There are many different brands on the market and different products for each brand. When choosing your cream, take into consideration the sensitivity of your skin and when you plan to use it. Some manufacturers also make water-resistant hair removal creams, which you can apply in the shower.
- If you use it on the face or groin area, be sure to take a specific formulation for these areas of the body, as the skin is more sensitive.
- If you have delicate skin, look for a cream that contains substances such as aloe vera or green tea. Also consider seeking advice from a doctor or dermatologist before using this product.
- Depilatory creams are commercially available in different forms, such as aerosol (or spray), gel and roll-on.
- The roll-on format allows for a "cleaner" application than cream or gel products, but with the latter you can have more control over the quantities that are spread (generally, a thick layer is more effective).
- If the smells are particularly bothering you, look for a product with added scents to cover the original one that looks a little like that of eggs when it reacts with the air. Just make sure these extra ingredients don't increase the chances of irritating your skin.
Step 2. Contact your doctor if you have very sensitive skin, have any dermatological conditions or are taking any medications that may affect the skin
Since the cream is applied directly to the skin, chemicals that break down hair proteins can also interact with those in the epidermis and cause an allergic reaction. It is therefore important to consult your doctor before using these depilatory products if:
- You have developed rashes, hives, or allergic reactions to skin products in the past;
- You are taking retinoids, acne medications or other medicines that may increase skin sensitivity;
- You suffer from any skin ailments, such as eczema, psoriasis or rosacea.
Step 3. Do an allergy test 24 hours before using the cream, even if you have used it before
Hormone levels are always changing and can therefore alter the condition of the skin. Even if you have never had any adverse reactions to these products in the past, your skin chemistry can still change slightly and trigger reactions.
- Apply a small amount of product to the area where you intend to shave. Follow the instructions, leaving it on for the time indicated and then take it off properly.
- If you do not notice any adverse reactions in the area within the next 24 hours, you can safely use the hair removal cream.
Step 4. Examine the skin for cuts, scrapes, moles, scars, herpes, sunburn or irritation
You need to minimize the risk of causing allergic reactions to the cream or developing rashes or chemical burns. Do not apply it on scars or moles; Also, if you have any burns, rashes, or cuts, wait to shave until they are completely healed.
If you've recently shaved, you may still have a few tiny cuts on your skin; wait a day or two before applying the cream
Step 5. Take a shower or bath and dry yourself thoroughly
Do not put any lotion or other products, otherwise they may interfere with the hair removal cream. The skin must be perfectly dry, as most of these products must be carefully spread on a dry surface.
- Do not use water that is too hot, as it dries the skin and can increase the risk of irritation.
- By immersing yourself in hot water, the hairs soften and weaken more easily. This is especially important for thicker hair, such as pubic hair.
Part 2 of 2: Apply the Cream
Step 1. Read the instructions enclosed with the product and follow them strictly
Different brands and different products - even from the same manufacturer - have different methods of use. One type of hair removal cream may take just three minutes to lay, while another may take up to ten. It is therefore important to follow the instructions precisely, to obtain the best results and protect the skin.
- If you lose the instructions that accompany the cream, you can read them on the tube or bottle of the product itself. Alternatively, visit the manufacturer's website; the instructions for use for each type of cream should be reported.
- Check the expiration date to make sure the cream is still usable. If it had expired it would not have the same effectiveness and you would not get the same results.
Step 2. Apply a thick layer of product to all the hairs you want to remove
You can use your fingers or a spatula if present in the package. Do not rub the product on the skin, you just have to spread it. Wash your hands right after if you used your fingers to apply it.
- If you haven't spread the cream evenly, you may be removing the hair in patches, leaving some hairy spots, and it's certainly not the look you want to achieve.
- Never apply the cream in the nostrils, ears, skin around the eyes (including eyebrows), genitals, anus or nipples.
Step 3. Leave it on your skin for the time indicated in the instructions
It could be three to ten minutes, although in rare cases it can exceed this time. Typically, indications recommend checking a small patch of skin midway through the process to see if the hairs are starting to peel off. The less time the cream stays on the skin, the less likely it is to develop redness or irritation.
- Since there is a real risk of damaging your skin by leaving the cream on for an extended period, set a kitchen timer or turn on your cell phone timer to make sure you don't exceed the recommended limit.
- A little tingling is normal, but if you start to feel a burning sensation, notice redness or irritation, you need to take off the cream immediately. Depending on the type of reaction you are experiencing, you need to consider whether to contact your doctor for advice on the treatments needed to heal your skin.
- You may smell bad while applying the cream. This is a normal side effect of the chemical reaction that melts the hair.
Step 4. Remove the cream with a damp cloth or spatula, if included in the package
Gently cleanse without scrubbing. Rinse the treated area with warm water to make sure you completely get rid of all the product. If you leave any residue, the chemicals present will continue to react on the skin and could cause chemical rashes or burns.
- Dab the leather to dry it, do not rub it.
- Apply a moisturizer to keep skin smooth and well hydrated.
Step 5. Don't worry if the treated area remains a little red or itchy after application; it is completely normal
Wear comfortable clothing after hair removal and do not scratch yourself. If the redness and discomfort persist for a few more hours or worsen, contact your doctor.
Step 6. Follow the directions and warnings on the product, such as avoiding sun exposure, swimming and tanning for 24 hours
You also have to wait 24 hours to apply a deodorant or other products containing perfumes.
