If you're tired of having to shave all the time but don't want to feel the pain of waxing treatments, a hair removal cream might be the one to help. This cream, also known as hair removal, is quick, inexpensive, and easy to use. Read on to find out how to use hair removal cream safely and effectively, and get smooth skin for one week.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Preparation for Using the Cream
Step 1. Find the right cream for your skin
There are various brands of hair removal creams, and a variety of choices in one brand. When choosing a cream, consider the sensitivity of the skin and where it is used. Some manufacturers even provide a selection of waterproof creams for use in the shower.
- If you use a cream on your face or bikini area, be sure to choose a formula specifically designed for those areas, as they are more sensitive.
- If you have sensitive skin, look for creams that contain ingredients such as aloe vera or green tea. You may also need to consult a doctor or dermatologist before using it.
- Hair removal comes in a variety of forms, from aerosol (or spray), gel, to roll on.
- Roll-on removers may be easier to apply than cream or gel, but the gel or cream form allows you to adjust the thickness when applied (and usually, the thicker, the better).
- If you are sensitive to the smell of cream, look for a cream that contains fragrance to disguise the egg-like smell of the cream when it reacts with the feathers. Just keep in mind that other additives can increase the chances of irritation.
Step 2. Consult a doctor if your skin is very sensitive, or if you suffer from certain skin conditions, or are taking any medications that affect the skin
Since these creams are applied directly to the surface of the skin, the chemicals that break down the proteins in the fur will also react with the proteins on the skin, and may cause certain reactions. Consult your doctor first before using hair removal cream, if:
- Have had a rash, urticaria, or allergic reaction to skin care products in the past.
- You are taking retinol, acne medications, or other medications that can increase skin sensitivity.
- You have a skin condition such as eczema, psoriasis, or rosacea.
Step 3. Do an allergy test 24 hours before using the cream, even if you have used the cream before
Your hormone levels are constantly changing, and this will change the condition of your skin. Even if your skin has never reacted to a hair removal cream before, the chemical state of the skin may change slightly, triggering a reaction.
- Apply a small amount of cream to the area where you are going to remove the hair. Follow the instructions, leave the cream on for the recommended amount of time and wash off properly.
- If the part you are testing does not react within 24 hours, a hair removal cream is safe for you to use.
Step 4. Examine the skin for cuts, scrapes, frostbite, moles, irritation, or sunburn
Minimize the chance of unwanted reactions, or chemical rashes and burns. Do not apply the cream directly to the wound or mole, and if there is a sunburn, rash, or cut, wait for it to heal completely before continuing to apply the hair removal cream.
There may be a small cut if you have just shaved; Wait a day or two before applying the cream
Step 5. Take a shower or bath, and dry the skin afterwards
That way, there's no lotion residue or anything on the skin's surface that might react with the hair removal cream. Make sure your skin is dry afterwards, as most hair removal creams should be applied to dry skin.
- Do not use hot water, as it can dry out your skin and increase the chances of irritation.
- Soaking in warm water can soften the fur, making it easier to crush. This is especially useful for very coarse hair, such as pubic hair.
Method 2 of 2: Applying Cream
Step 1. Read the instructions on the cream packaging, and follow each step
Different brands and products have different hair removal guidelines. One type of hair removal cream may take as little as three minutes, while another may take 10 minutes. Following these guidelines will give you the best results and help protect your skin.
- If the guide on the cream is missing, you can read it in the bottle or tube. If not, visit the manufacturer's website. Supposedly, a guide to the use of each type of cream is there.
- Check the "use by" date to make sure your cream hasn't expired. Expired hair removal creams will not work well or give great results.
Step 2. Apply the cream thickly and evenly over the hair you want to remove
Use your fingers or a spatula, if you have one. Do not rub cream onto your skin, just smooth it out. Wash your hands immediately if you rub them with your fingers.
- An uneven layer of cream may leave hairy patches, which you may not want.
- Never apply hair removal cream into the nose, ears, skin around the eyes (including eyebrows), genitals, anus, or nipples.
Step 3. Leave the cream on for the recommended time
The usage time may be from 3 to 10 minutes, although rarely more than 10 minutes. Most user guides advise you to check halfway through use for hair loss. The shorter the contact time between the skin and the depilatory cream, the less likely it is that your skin will turn red or irritated.
- Since your skin can actually be damaged if you leave the cream on for too long, set a timer on your phone or alarm clock to make sure you don't go overboard.
- You may feel a little ticklish, and this is normal. However, if you start to feel like you're burning, your skin looks red or irritated, wipe the cream off your skin immediately. Depending on the reaction, you may need to contact your doctor for skin care advice.
- You may smell an unpleasant odor when you apply the cream. This side effect is normal, and results from a chemical reaction that destroys your coat.
Step 4. Wipe off the cream with a damp washcloth or spatula, if applicable
Apply gently--don't rub in the cream. Rinse the area with water to make sure the cream is completely removed. If you don't rinse off the rest of the cream, the chemicals will continue to react with the skin and cause a rash or chemical burn.
- Don't rub your skin. Just pat dry.
- Apply moisturizer to the area to keep it smooth and moist.
Step 5. Don't worry if your skin is a little red or itchy afterward--this is normal
Wear loose clothing after applying the cream, and don't scratch. If this redness and discomfort persists after a few hours, or gets worse, call your doctor.
Step 6. Read the warnings in the cream usage guide, such as avoiding sun exposure, or tanning for 24 hours
You should also wait 24 hours before using an antiperspirant or product that contains fragrance.
