Which term describes the chemical used to dissolve hair at the skin's surface?

• A. Exfoliant
• B. Emollient
• C. Keratolytic
• D. Depilatory

Answer: (D)

Depilatories are chemicals designed to dissolve hair at the skin’s surface. They work by breaking the keratin in the hair shaft—typically through thioglycolate compounds that disrupt disulfide bonds—so the hair weakens and can be wiped away. This is distinct from exfoliants, which remove dead skin cells; emollients, which moisturize and soften the skin; and keratolytics, which act on the skin’s keratin to reduce thicker, rough areas rather than dissolve hair. If using a depilatory, patch testing and following instructions helps minimize irritation or burns.