A chemical depilatory is a cosmetic preparation used to remove the hair from the skin on the human body. Currently, a common active ingredient is calcium thioglycolate, which breaks down the disulphide bonds in keratin and weakens the hair so that it is easily scraped off where it emerges from the hair follicle.
This break down reaction is affected by the calcium hydroxide (an alkali). The resulting combination of calcium hydroxide and thioglycolic acid is calcium thioglycolate(CaTG). The calcium hydroxide is present in excess to enable the thioglycolic acid to react with the cystine present in hair protein. As the epidermis is also rich in keratin, the skin may become irritated and sensitive if the preparation is left on for too long. Chemical depilatories are used primarily for the arms and legs. They should not be used on the face unless specifically listed for that purpose on the product’s label.
Chemical depilatories are available in gel, cream, lotion, aerosol, roll-on, and powder forms. Common brands include Nair, Magic Shave and Veet.
Advantages
- Inexpensive
- Fast
- A pain free hair removal method
- Easy to do, no experience or professional assistance required[1]
- Various strength products available to dissolve even the strongest of hairs
- Can be done at home
- Available over-the-counter
Disadvantages
- Effect lasts a short time. Regrowth begins to appear generally within 2-5 days
- Dark-haired users may be left with a visible “shadow” of dark hair under skin
- Chemical depilatory creams are generally foul in odor and messy to use
- Can cause skin irritation
Dangers – Below are the dangers listed in the MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet) from the manufacture of calcium thioglycolate, the active ingredient:
- Harmful if swallowed
- Irritating to respiratory system
- May cause sensitization by skin contact.
- Avoid contact with skin.Wear suitable gloves!
- Potential Acute Health Effects:Hazardous in case of eye contact (irritant), of inhalation (lung irritant).
- The substance is toxic to the reproductive system, upper respiratory tract, central nervous system (CNS). Repeated or prolonged exposure to the substance can produce target organs damage.
OK, so this product works and is effective for a few days, it contains a potent chemical which can cause skin and lung irritation. Bottom line, don’t put anything on your skin you wouldn’t eat, because the ingredients will be absorbed through your skin and inhaled into your lungs. So next time you reach for the Nair, put a dab on your fingers and give it a taste!