Hair removal cream, also known as depilatory cream, is a popular method for removing unwanted body hair. It works by breaking down the protein structure of hair, making it easy to wipe away. But how exactly does this happen? Let's take a look at the science behind hair removal cream and how it works.
Hair removal cream contains a chemical called thioglycolic acid (TGA) which is responsible for breaking down the protein structure of hair. TGA works by breaking the disulfide bonds that hold the hair shaft together. When TGA is applied to the skin, it reacts with the keratin in the hair and causes the disulfide bonds to break apart. This causes the hair to become weak and brittle, making it easy to wipe away.
Another important component of hair removal cream is the pH level. The pH level is the measure of acidity or alkalinity of a substance. Hair removal cream typically has a pH between 9 and 11, which is the optimal range for TGA to break down the hair. If the pH level is too low, TGA will not be able to effectively break down the hair. If the pH level is too high, it can cause skin irritation.
When using hair removal cream, it is important to follow the instructions on the product. The cream is typically left on the skin for a few minutes, and then wiped off with a spatula or cloth. It is important to wait the appropriate amount of time as specified on the product, as leaving the cream on for too long can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions.
In conclusion, hair removal cream is a popular method for removing unwanted body hair. It works by breaking down the protein structure of hair, making it easy to wipe away. The active ingredient in hair removal cream is thioglycolic acid (TGA), which reacts with the keratin in the hair and causes the disulfide bonds to break apart. The pH level is also an important component of hair removal cream as it needs to be within a certain range for TGA to effectively break down the hair. It is important to follow the instructions on the product and to test a small area first to ensure that there is no adverse reaction.