How Do I Choose the Best Hair Removal Gel?

A great head of hair is something to admire, but hair in unwanted places can be unsightly and embarrassing. There are a number of effective methods of hair removal including waxing, laser hair removal, shaving, and removing hair with a hair removal lotion, cream, or gel. Using hair removal gel is a popular choice because it's quick and painless, lasts longer than shaving, and is less expensive than laser hair removal. To find the best hair removal gel for you, decide which area of the body you're intending to use it on and test out the product on a small area of your skin to prevent allergic reactions. Look for a product that promises lasting results and experiment with different brands until you find the one that works best for you.

Unwanted hair most commonly grows in areas including the face and neck, bikini area, legs, and armpits. Different areas of the body have different hair types and thicknesses, and the skin in each area varies in sensitivity. Some hair removal gel is designed to target one specific area of the body, so look for a product specifically designed for the area from which you wish to remove unwanted hair. Your face and bikini area are the most sensitive of these areas, while your armpits and legs need a stronger hair removal gel formula to work effectively and are more likely to withstand stronger formulas without a problem. Using the wrong type of hair removal gel can result in skin irritation and even burns.

The most commonly found active ingredient in hair removal gel is calcium thioglycolate, which breaks down the hair so that it can be easily wiped away. Hair removal gel can have a strong odor, so many manufacturers add a variety of other products to mask any unpleasant smell as well as soothe and prevent skin irritation. Allergic reactions are fairly common even in those who don't normally have skin sensitivities, so be sure to test the gel on a small area of skin and wait at least one full day after testing before using it on a large area.

One of the reasons hair removal gel is so popular is because it eliminates the hassle of daily shaving and plucking. The downside is that home hair removal can be messy, so you want to use a gel as infrequently as possible. Look for a product that promises long lasting results. Every brand has a different formula and a different smell, and will react with your skin and hair differently, so experimenting with different formulas can be the best way to decide which hair removal gel works best to leave your skin silky and smooth.