How To Use Hair Removal Creams 11 Steps With Pictures

If you are using the cream on your face or bikini area, make sure you choose formula specifically for those areas, as the skin is more sensitive. [2] X Research source If you have sensitive skin, look for creams with ingredients like aloe and green tea. You may also want to speak with a doctor or dermatologist before use. [3] X Research source Depilatory creams can come in different forms, from aerosols (or sprays), gels, and roll-ons. [4] X Research source A roll-on won’t be as messy as a cream or gel, but the creams and gels let you control how thick you apply them (and usually the thicker the better). [5] X Research source If you are sensitive to smells, try a cream that has added a scent to cover the eggy smell of the cream reacting to your hair. Just remember that additional ingredients can increase the chances of irritation. [6] X Research source Buy from a reputable place instead of buying from a random site on the internet. [7] X Expert Source Heather Richmond, MDBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 15 September 2020. If the price of a product is too low compared to its retail price, it may not be genuine. [8] X Expert Source Heather Richmond, MDBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 15 September 2020.

If you lost the directions that came with your cream, you can find them on the bottle or tube. Otherwise, check the company’s website. They should have instructions for each kind of cream. Check the “use by” date to make sure your cream is not expired. An expired depilatory cream will not work very well and give you poor results.

Uneven application means your hair could come off in patches, leaving you with spots of hair, which is probably not the look you’re going for. [12] X Research source Never apply a hair removal cream to your nostrils, ears, the skin around your eyes (including your eyebrows), genitals, anus, or nipples. [13] X Research source

Because you can really harm your skin if you leave the cream on too long, set an egg timer or use the timer on your phone to make sure you don’t exceed the limit. Some tingling is normal, but if you start to feel burning, see redness or irritation, remove the cream immediately. Depending on your reaction, you may want to call your doctor for advice on how to treat your skin. You may notice a bad smell while you are using the cream. That’s a normal side effect of the chemical reaction that is breaking down your hair. [15] X Research source

Pat, don’t rub, your skin dry. [17] X Research source Apply a moisturizer to the area to keep it smooth and hydrated. [18] X Research source

You should not shave or use a hair removal cream in the same area for 72 hours after use.

You have developed rashes, hives, or allergic reactions to skin products in the past. [23] X Research source You take a retinol, acne medication, or other medication that increases your skin’s sensitivity. [24] X Research source You have a skin condition such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea. [25] X Research source Usually, dermatologists recommend using medical-grade creams with proven clinical benefits. [26] X Expert Source Heather Richmond, MDBoard Certified Dermatologist Expert Interview. 15 September 2020.

Apply a small amount of cream to the area where you plan to remove the hair. Follow the directions, leaving the cream on for the advised amount of time and removing properly. [28] X Research source If the tested area does not react in the next 24 hours, it is safe to use the depilatory cream. [29] X Research source

There may be tiny cuts on your skin if you have shaved recently–wait a day or two before applying the cream. [32] X Research source

Don’t use hot water, as this can dry out your skin and may increase chances of irritation. [33] X Research source Soaking in warm water can soften your hair, which may make it easier to break down. This is especially helpful for very coarse hair, like pubic hair. [34] X Research source