Will underarm hair grow thicker and more after using hair removal cream?
Sep 13, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Hair removal using depilatory creams generally does not increase with local hair regrowth. Depilatory creams are actually chemical agents, possibly containing main ingredients such as calcium thioglycolate, which work by dissolving hair. When applied locally, they can thin or soften exposed hairs, dissolving them and thus achieving a hair removal effect visually. Currently, laser hair removal is the primary treatment method used.
Hair removal using depilatory creams generally does not lead to increased hair growth in the treated area. In fact, depilatory creams are chemical agents that may contain key ingredients such as monothioglycolic acid, which work by dissolving hair. When applied topically, they can thin or soften exposed hairs, dissolving them and thereby achieving a hair removal effect.
However, hair follicles located deep within the skin remain intact, allowing hair to regrow after some time. Therefore, depilatory creams provide only temporary results, although the regrown hair typically does not become significantly thicker. Theoretically, the number of hair follicles in a given area is fixed and remains essentially unchanged from birth.
Nevertheless, since depilatory creams use chemicals to break down hair, their application may irritate the skin. These chemicals could potentially damage hair follicles—damaged follicles may atrophy, leading to finer hair growth, while irritated follicles might produce coarser hair over time.
Currently, the use of depilatory creams for hair removal is not recommended. Laser hair removal is now the primary treatment method. Commercial treatments such as "ice-point" hair removal and "moonlight" hair removal offer better and more effective options.
