Tyrese Brunjes

If you've heard about the benefits of depilatory cream to remove body hair—including that it's easy, cheap, and painless—then perhaps you've already been tempted to swap out your other hair removal methods for it. It's important to note, however, that depilatories can cause chemical burns and other harmful reactions if not used correctly. That's why we reached out to three trustworthy skincare sources—renowned facialist and esthetician Rhea Souhleris Grous, board-certified dermatologist Ava Shamban, MD, and licensed esthetician Jodi Shays, to learn how to use depilatory hair removal cream safely.

Read on for their expert advice that will take you one step closer to smoother and softer skin.

"Depilatories—often found in creams, gels, or lotions—temporarily remove unwanted hair from the face and body,” says Shays. Unlike razor hair removal, which severs the hair at the skin level, "a depilatory will penetrate to and through the follicle but does not target the root," adds Shamban.

Depilatory creams are incredibly effective at what they're designed to do, and many people use them to remove hair on both their body and face. Some venture as far as the bikini line, but due to the nature of these products, it's important to be careful and not use them too close to your genitals, eyes, or nose. Seriously—that's how you get nasty chemical burns.

If you're new to depilatories, they're probably simpler than you think. First, a strong alkaline-based product is placed on the unwanted hair. That substance then breaks down the hair into a jelly-like substance that's easy to wipe off. The chemicals in depilatories include ingredients like sodium thioglycolate, calcium thioglycolate, and strontium sulfide, which break down the protein bonds of the hair.

There are several benefits to using depilatory creams:

As with even the best of products, there are potential downsides to using depilatories, "especially if you use a cheap kit or don’t read the instructions,” Shays says. Drawbacks include:

First things first: Do your research. When considering which depilatory cream to purchase, choose one with “great reviews and easy-to-follow instructions,” says Shays. And keep in mind that you may need to do a little planning: Grous recommends stopping the use of all keratolytic products (e.g., retinol, exfoliating acids, scrubs) three days before applying a depilatory cream and resuming use three days after a depilatory has been applied.

Now, once you're ready to begin the hair removal process, make sure to follow the steps outlined by our experts:

Everyone’s skin is different, and there is a range of sensitivity. That said, depilatories should never be used on vulnerable skin. If you have a sunburn; an open wound; a chronic and highly inflammatory skin condition like contact dermatitis, eczema, psoriasis, rosacea, or acne vulgaris; are using Accutane (isotretinoin); or taking antibiotics, skincare experts strongly recommend considering alternative hair removal methods.

Depilatory creams are “generally skin safe with little atopic reaction for most, but it can burn with active chemical ingredients such as calcium hydroxide and potassium hydroxide,” explains Shamban. Many depilatory products will have a warning for burning or blistering, a reaction that is not exclusive to those with sensitive or highly reactive skin. “You can find specific formulas with soothing calming agents, including chamomile, aloe vera, vitamin E, calendula, almond oil, cocoa butter, and anti-inflammatory ingredients for sensitive skin,” adds Shamban. In general, those with sensitive skin who are considering using a depilatory cream should look for these specific formulas.

While depilatory creams can be harsh on your skin, there are several products on the market that are specially made to soothe and nourish. Scroll further for our experts' favorite depilatory picks.

Nair has taken steps to prevent irritation by adding cocoa butter to this lotion. Shays's favorite depilatory cream "will always be Nair," she says. "This is what they are famous forThey put a lot of research and testing into their product."

GiGi is a well-known and trusted brand to those familiar with at-home hair removal. The brand's best-selling product is its waxing kit; though the depilatory lotion, which is enriched with calming and moisture-rich ingredients like cocoa butter and aloe vera extract, doesn't disappoint.

This beloved formula by Veet caters to sensitive skin, so those who are susceptible to red and irritated skin can have peace of mind while using this product. Shamban recommends the brand's standard formula, Legs & Body 3 in 1 Gel Cream ($9).

For all skin types, Shamban also recommends Nads Sensitive Hair Removal Cream. Its melon, aloe vera, avocado oil, and honey extracts help to soothe skin.

Depilatory creams are a great at-home alternative to many other hair removal procedures; just be sure to use them with care to avoid irritation.

"After a home treatment, monitor the area for swelling, inflammation, rash, blisters, or burns,” says Shamban. If any negative reactions to a depilatory cream last for more than one day, check in with a board-certified dermatologist to assess the severity of your reaction.

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