Depilatory creams for facial hair removal have decreased in popularity over the past decade as technology and advertising have given us cheaper and more attractive alternatives. Women who use depilatory creams for facial hair removal have produced a mixed bag of results, which largely depend upon levels of skin sensitivity and reactive elements to the harsh chemicals that they contain.
Depilatory creams for facial hair removal in the long-term can exacerbate the problem!
Depilatory creams work by dissolving the hair above the skin, leaving a result that is similar to a very close shave. Inevitably, the chemicals contained within the cream, also cause damage to the epidermis, the top layer of the skin when used over time. The body immediately sends extra blood supply to the epidermis to repair the damage, treating the action as a skin injury. This increased blood supply and irritation can stimulate the hair and lead to a worsening of the condition. Repair can take a minimum of 28 days to occur. The delicate skin of the face suffers from this more than any other area of the body and, in the worst cases, can lead to permanent damage over time with repeated use.
Can anyone use depilatory creams for facial hair removal?
Skin sensitivity varies from person to person and those with particularly sensitive skin could suffer a burning sensation when using depilatory creams. Generally, the skin on a woman’s’ face is more sensitive than anywhere else on the body. Most depilatory creams are alkaline based, but a few are acidic. A skin sensitivity test should always be performed on a small patch of skin over 24 hours as instructed within most guidance notes included with the products.
Are depilatory creams a permanent solution?
Depilatory creams are not a permanent solution to hair removal. Treatment may need to be repeated as often as once a month. Hairs grow at different rates across the body and, as previously mentioned, depilatory creams can make the problem worse over time. Many temporary methods of hair removal can exacerbate the problem of excess hair growth, distorting them as the regrow.
Is there a permanent solution?
Using depilatory creams for facial hair removal is another temporary method of reducing hair, in a similar category to plucking, shaving, waxing and laser hair removal, which we have discussed in previous posts.
The only truly permanent method of hair removal is Electrolysis; recognised by the FDA and the British Medical Association. For more than 100 years, Electrolysis has helped women in a medical capacity and cosmetic, to deal with the problem of excess hair growth. Visiting a trained and experienced Electrolygist can bring relief on a permanent basis for all recipients, regardless of skin type, colouring and sensitivity.
Elaine, at Clinique Matrice, has skilfully performed hair removal in Brisbane and in the UK for more than 25 years and has never treated a client that has ceased treatment through discomfort or reaction.
Over time, the cost of temporary methods, such as the use of depilatory creams for facial hair removal can far outweigh the cost of a course of Electrolysis, and with permanent results at the end, there really is no comparison.
Contact Elaine today to find out how you can benefit from electrolysis with a free consultation.