Human beings choose to remove unwanted body hair for cosmetic, social, cultural, or medical reason. A number of hair removal techniques have been developed over the years, including chemical hair removal. the chemical breakdown of superfluous hair without injury to the skin. The advantage of such preparations is that they preempt any danger of cutting or abrading the skin in regions such as the underarms, where it is difficult to see the area clearly and even more difficult to guide a razor over the complicated contours. The following are five useful knowledge needed when using hair remove products.

1.      Read carefully the product information stated on the label

Before commencing the application, check on the product label to get the information and directions for use thoroughly, and closely follow all instructions. Additionally, it is better to test the product on a small area of skin where you wish to remove the hair, 24 hours before use. And the product should only be used if, after 24 hours, there are no signs of hypersensitivity or irritation. However, the test is no guarantee against a later reaction, so even if you have used hair removal products before, you should perform the test each time.

2.      Apply it where it must be applied

Check in the directions of use whether the product may be used on the face, breasts, or around the "bikini line", as this is dependent on the product formulation (cream, gel or spray), and the skin is particularly sensitive in these areas. Then be sure that the skin is completely clean and dry before applying the product and remember that it is prohibited to apply the product to acne, varicose veins, moles, or warts, or to damaged, irritated, thin, or dry skin.

3.      Respect the stated time

Always observe the specified time limit for how long the product is permitted to be on the skin. Note that it might be necessary to treat one leg or patch of skin at a time, to ensure that the time limit is observed. The time should be counted from the moment you begin applying the product to the skin, until it has been removed again, not from when you have finished applying cream to a large area of skin, until you start scraping it off. Even if the hair is not satisfactorily removed on the first attempt, you should wait at least 48 hours before repeating treatment. Make sure you rinse off the hair-removal product thoroughly, using plenty of lukewarm water, at the end of the treatment. A greasy layer can form on the skin due to the high pH value, and this can be difficult to rinse off

4.      Remove the product if it affects the skin

If you experience a burning or stinging sensation, or skin irritation, the product must be immediately removed using plenty of water. If there is subsequent, clear irritation of the skin, or burns, you should consult a doctor.

5.      After treatment do not use the cosmetic product that can affects your skin

After treatment, the skin can be extra sensitive. You should therefore avoid using creams or other cosmetic products containing alcohol, perfume, or other potentially irritating or dehydrating ingredients on the treated skin.

References

1.      A. Ejersted; A. Orloff; Analysis of chemical hair-removal products; Survey of Chemical Substances in Consumer Products Survey no. 31 2003; the Danish Environmental Protection Agency.

2.      Andre O. Barel; P. Marc; Howard I. Maibach; Handbook of cosmetic sciences and technology; USA, 2001; ISBN: 0-8247-0292-1

3.      B.M. MITHAL; R.N. SAHA; A Handbook of Cosmetics, Birla Institute of Technology and Science, PILANI, India; First Edition 2000; ISBN 81-85731-22-5