How to Treat Burns From Cream Hair Removers

by Jeremy Cato

Many people use hair removal creams, also known as depilatory creams, to show off their lovely skin and maintain a neat appearance. These ointments contain caustic chemicals that literally dissolve hair at the root and separate it from the skin. Occasionally, a person using these creams may experience a rash or chemical burn on the area of application. Usually, these burns are not serious, but you should attend to them immediately by following certain steps.

Items you will need

  • Clean washcloth
  • Antibacterial, pain- or itch-relieving ointment
  • Sterile gauze

Treating the Burn

Step 1

Wet an area of the washcloth with cool water, and squeeze lightly.

Step 2

Wipe the burned area lightly with the washcloth to remove any remaining residue from the cream.

Step 3

Dry the skin with a dry area of the washcloth.

Step 4

Rub the area completely with the antibacterial, pain-relieving ointment.

Step 5

Wrap the burn with sterile gauze.

Step 6

Continue to monitor the burned area every five hours to check for discoloration or further discomfort and to change the gauze.

Tips

  • If the pain worsens or the area becomes swollen or discolored, see a doctor.

    If the pain from the burn is more severe, you may want to run cool (not cold) water over the area for a few seconds before proceeding with the steps.

    Always test a depilatory cream

Warnings

  • Never leave depilatory creams on your skin for longer than the length of time indicated in the manufacturer's directions.

Photo Credits

  • Julia Kundert/Demand Media

About the Author

Jeremy Cato is a writer from Atlanta who graduated with Phi Beta Kappa honors and an English degree from Morehouse College. An avid artist and hobbyist, he began professionally writing in 2011, specializing in crafts-related articles for various websites.