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Hair
that is dark and coarse appears to be more resistant to a chemical
depilatory than hair that is light and fine.
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A
depilatory is best used after a warm bath or shower when the
hair is softer and the pores of the skin are open.
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Never
use a depilatory where there are wounds on the skin such as
cuts or abrasions or on skin sensitive from sunburn.
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Apply
the depilatory in a generous, smooth thick layer. Do not rub
it in.
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Always
test a small area of skin first. A small patch on the inner
arm below the elbow is a good place. Keep the application on
the skin for the time recommended in the instructions and remove.
Wait 24 hours. If there are no signs of irritation or allergic
reaction such as redness or broken skin then proceed over a
larger area.
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Follow
the timing instructions very closely by setting a timer and
removing the chemical immediately the timer signal goes off.
Do not exceed the time recommended to avoid burning or damaging
the skin.
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If
the skin becomes itchy or irritated discontinue use of the depilatory
and apply a soothing gel such as Aloe Vera or an anti-inflammatory
skin cream.
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To
minimize irritation, try not to exfoliate (through scrubbing,
or using a mask or cleansing agent) beforehand and be sure to
follow up with a thorough rinsing and moisture-rich cream.
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After
using a depilatory, apply sunscreen to areas that will be exposed
to the sun.
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To
avoid damaging underlying layers of skin, some recommend not
using a depilatory more than every 28 days. Generally, a new
outer layer of skin is formed every 28 days.
