What are depilatory creams?

What are depilatory creams?

Josephine Wackett (Skincare specialist - Principal, Steiner Beauty Training) gives expert video advice on: What are depilatory creams?; What are the advantages of depilatory creams?; What are the disadvantages of depilatory creams?

Depilatory creams are products which are very strong alkali. They affect the hair by decomposing it at skin level, and fractionally, into the mouth of the follicle. The follicle is the little pocket which the hair grows from. Being a cream, depilatory creams go a little bit deeper than a razor and the shaving effect. They work very well by removing the hair on a temporary basis. The hair has not got quite such a stubbly end to it, so when it re-grows, it doesn't feel quite as rough. Depilatory creams are dangerous if they're used too often, because they have quite a strong effect on the surface of the skin. They should be used according to the instructions on the product. They leave the skin, usually, with a slightly strange smell, which is difficult to wash away, but it does wear off within twenty-four hours.