Depilatories come in either lotion, cream, gel, aerosol, powder or roll-on forms. They are applied to the skin, a chemical reaction takes place and the keratin in the hair shaft is dissolved which allows the hair to be easily scraped from the skin. This is a temporary solution to hair removal and hair will normally grow back in around 2-5 days. This method of hair removal can be done at home, although can be a bit messy and does give off a strong odour. Also if left on the skin for too long a depilatory could cause some burning to the area being treated, instructions must be followed carefully.

Patch tests should always be carried out 24 hours prior to use to determine if the skin is sensitive to the chemicals.