Friction for hair removal

Basic facts

A simple method of removing hair at skin’s surface. Consumers find it primarily useful for fine hair on lower legs and arms.

A rough surface is used to buff away any hair above the skin’s surface. This can be with a pumice stone, emery cloth, or specialized hair removal mittens.

Advantages: Inexpensive, fast, essentially painless, can be done at home, available widely, also exfoliates and smooths skin. Many types can be used wet or dry. Good for legs with fine hair. Some use it between shaving or waxing sessions.

Disadvantages: Effect lasts a short time– anywhere from a few hours to several days. Dark-haired users may have visible “shadow” of dark hair under skin. Often requires use every two or three days. Can cause skin irritation if rubbed too hard. Do not use on face, arms, or bikini area. Do not use on irritated or damaged skin.

Tips

Legs should be clean and dry. Slip the mitt over your hand with abrasive side facing the legs.
Select an area of skin surface approximately the size of the mitt.
Use small circular movements and gentle pressure to smooth the surface of your skin.
Without lifting mitt off the skin surface, alternate between clockwise and counterclockwise motions until all hair is removed.
Do not rub too hard or you may irritate the skin.
Wash the mitt in warm soapy water to maintain its cleanliness and effectiveness.
Mitts often say they are made for use on legs only.
Do not use on face, underarms, or bikini area unless you’ve tested it on a small patch to see how your skin responds. For sensitive skin, “condition” the mitt by gently rubbing on palm for a few seconds to remove the coarser grit.
Do not use on irritated or damaged skin.
If irritation occurs, discontinue use.
Do not stroke up and down or apply too much pressure.
Keep out of reach of children.
Follow up with a mild lotion.