Substances used in depliatories

 Depilatories are substances used to remove unwanted hair by breaking down the protein structure of the hair, causing it to weaken and easily wipe away. These products can come in various forms, such as creams, gels, lotions, and powders. The primary active ingredients in depilatories are usually chemical compounds that break down the disulfide bonds in keratin, the protein in hair.

Types of Substances Used in Depilatories

1. Calcium Thioglycolate

• Mechanism: Calcium thioglycolate breaks the disulfide bonds in keratin, weakening the hair so it can be easily removed.
• Usage: Commonly used in cream and lotion depilatories for its effectiveness and relatively mild action on the skin.

Cream Formula Example:

                  Water (Aqua)

                  Calcium Thioglycolate (4-6%)

                  Emulsifying agents (Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol)

                  Thickeners (Carbomer)

                  Skin conditioners (Aloe Vera Extract, Glycerin)

                  pH adjusters (Calcium Hydroxide)

                  Fragrance

Sodium Thioglycolate

• Mechanism: Similar to calcium thioglycolate, sodium thioglycolate also breaks the disulfide bonds in the hair.
• Usage: Often used in powder depilatories that are mixed with water before application.

Powder Formula Example:

                 Sodium Thioglycolate (5-10%)

                 Talc

                 Sodium Bicarbonate

                 Starch

                 Fragrance

Potassium Thioglycolate

• Mechanism: Potassium thioglycolate acts similarly to other thioglycolates, breaking down hair structure.
• Usage: Common in gel depilatories for its effective hair removal properties.

Gel Formula Example:

                  Water (Aqua)

                  Potassium Thioglycolate (5-7%)

                  Thickening agents (Hydroxyethylcellulose)

                  Emollients (Mineral Oil, Isopropyl Myristate)

                  pH adjusters (Potassium Hydroxide)

                    Fragrance

Calcium Hydroxide and Sodium Hydroxide

• Mechanism: These alkaline substances help to weaken hair by breaking down keratin. They are often used in combination with thioglycolates to enhance effectiveness.
• Usage: Present in both creams and lotions to improve the action of thioglycolates.

Cream/Lotion Formula Example:

                   Water (Aqua)

                   Calcium Thioglycolate (4-6%)

                   Sodium Hydroxide or Calcium Hydroxide (1-3%)

                   Emulsifiers (Stearic Acid)

                   Skin conditioners (Glycerin, Vitamin E)

                   Preservatives (Phenoxyethanol)

                   Fragrance

Sample Depilatory Cream Formula

Here is a detailed example of a depilatory cream formula:

Ingredients

 Water (Aqua): 70-75%

 Calcium Thioglycolate: 4-6%

 Cetyl Alcohol: 2-4%

 Stearyl Alcohol: 2-4%

 Glycerin: 3-5%

 Carbomer: 0.5-1%

 Calcium Hydroxide: 1-2%

 Aloe Vera Extract: 1-2%

 Fragrance: 0.5-1%

 Phenoxyethanol: 0.5-1%

 Potassium Hydroxide: Adjust to pH 12.5

 

Procedure

1. Heat the water to about 70-75°C.

2. Add Cetyl Alcohol, Stearyl Alcohol, and Carbomer to the water while stirring continuously.

3. Once fully dissolved, add Calcium Thioglycolate and Calcium Hydroxide.

4. Continue stirring and allow the mixture to cool.

5. Add Glycerin, Aloe Vera Extract, Fragrance, and Phenoxyethanol.

6. Adjust the pH to 12.5 using Potassium Hydroxide.

7. Mix thoroughly and package the cream.

 

Usage

 Apply a thick layer of the cream to the desired area.

 Leave it on for 5-10 minutes, depending on hair thickness.

 Wipe off with a damp cloth and rinse the skin thoroughly with water.

Safety and Precautions

• Patch Test: Always conduct a patch test on a small area of skin to check for any allergic reactions before full application.
• Avoid Sensitive Areas: Avoid using depilatories on sensitive skin areas, broken or irritated skin, and near the eyes.
• Follow Instructions: Adhere strictly to the usage instructions provided with the product to prevent skin irritation or chemical burns.

Depilatories provide a convenient method for hair removal, but it's essential to use them correctly and safely to achieve the best results without adverse effects.