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Cosmetology
Question #12734
52 days ago
142

permanent hair removal cream - #12734

Atharv

I am trying to figure out if using a permanent hair removal cream is really as effective as it sounds. Last summer, I started noticing that my underarm hair was becoming super stubborn, like I’d shave and within a day, it was back, but darker! I was Googling ways to deal with it and came across some ads for permanent hair removal cream. They claim to get rid of hair for good, but I’m kinda skeptical. Has anyone here tried this? I mean, how permanent is “permanent” hair removal cream really? Like, I don’t want to waste my money on something that work for just a few weeks. I tried a different hair removal cream last year, but it only made my skin super irritated, so I’m hesitant to put anythng on my skin again unless I know it’s safe. And, is there anything I should look for in a permanent hair removal cream to avoid reactions? Or does it vary a lot from brand to brand? Sometimes I think if I should just stick to waxing, but it’s painful and super messy. Anyway, I just hope I can find something reliable for once!!

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Doctors’ responses

When it comes to so-called “permanent” hair removal creams, it’s important to manage expectations as these products often don’t work quite as permanently as their name suggests. Most over-the-counter hair removal creams, including those marketed as permanent, are based on depilatory chemicals that dissolve hair at the skin’s surface. While they do provide smooth skin for a little longer than shaving, typically resulting in hair regrowth in a few days to a week, these creams aren’t capable of targeting hair at the follicle like laser treatments do, so true permanent removal isn’t achievable with them.

Regarding your previous experience with irritation, this is unfortunately a common side effect of depilatory creams, because the chemicals needed to break down hair proteins can also irritate sensitive skin, especially underarms which can be more sensitive. Before committing to a full application, doing a patch test on a small area of your skin can help determine if you will have a reaction. Look for products that include soothing agents, like aloe vera or chamomile, as these may help reduce the risk of irritation.

Variety does exist among brands, and some are formulated to be gentler than others, but the effectiveness actually doesn’t vary too much between them in terms of long-term hair reduction. If you’re looking for truly permanent solutions, you might want to explore professional options like laser hair removal or electrolysis, though they come with a steeper price tag and need to be performed several times to achieve the best results. Given the potential for irritation and less-than-permanent results, if you’re wary of trying another cream, waxing or sugaring still remain effective albeit more painful options when done correctly and regularly can reduce hair growth over time. It’s often a trade-off depending on your personal preferences and tolerance.

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