A new bizarrely-shaped device has descended upon the hair-removal market — positioning itself as product that reigns supreme over razors and wax. Enter crystal hair erasers. The mechanics of the tool involve rubbing and scrubbing your skin to eliminate hair from the surface. I mean — I don’t think I’d endorse the concept of rubbing your skin to slough hair off the surface — but that’s just me, and I’m no expert.
But I know experts, and I’m officially intrigued by the workings of this soap-shaped device. That’s why I’ve roped in two dermatologists to explain the concept to me, and whether the product is safe to use. Dr. Sushma Yadav, Dermatologist and Cosmetologist, Skinology, Bangalore and Dr. Sravya C. Tipirneni, Consultant Dermatologist, Cosmetologist & Trichologist at Manipal Hospitals in Bangalore weigh in with their opinions — and let’s just say I’m not that far off.
Do These Dermats Recommend Using The Product? Find Out
What is a crystal hair eraser, and how does it work?
How does a crystal hair remover even work? Dr. Sushma describes it as a small handheld device featuring one flat side covered in etched glass. “After running the glass under water, you can rub it into the skin in circular motions to quickly, easily, and painlessly remove hair. It works as an alternative to razors. The etched crystalline surface makes the hair clump and fall off the skin.”
“It claims to remove hair at the skin level itself by the principle of friction and removal,” says Dr. Sravya. Articles suggest that the hair-clumping device tears and cuts your hair from the skin’s surface. ‘Clumping’ doesn’t quite convey the meaning. But if the mechanics involve creating friction between your skin and the glass, should those with sensitive, reactive skin trade in their razors? What about removing hair from the more sensitive regions of the body? How do you gauge the safety of the device? Is this truly a safe and effective way of getting rid of body hair at home? Questions abound.
Have you heard of it before, used it, or seen a client use it?
Both experts have never encountered the product in reality. Research suggested the same. Real-life anecdotes don’t quite exist. Everything that is known about this device is relayed by the companies manufacturing them. Dr. Sushma and Dr. Sravya have seen advertisements and promotions on Instagram, but they haven’t experimented with it — or witnessed any client use it. “Mainly because most of my clients are already undergoing laser hair removal. And they know better. They know these are non-evidence-based and non-certified treatments.”
“After doing some research, I found a lot of mixed reviews. Some called it a gimmick, and others called it effective,” says Dr. Sushma. These sparse, conflicting reviews don’t offer you much perspective on the efficacy of the product.
Does it work effectively for heavy growth?
“Because it’s an alternative for razors, it does work on heavy growth, and hair grows back immediately just like it in the case of shaving. That’s why you need to use it very often,” explains Dr. Sushma.
But Dr. Sravya is of a different belief. “It doesn’t at all,” she asserts. There’s a reason.
Is it safe to use? If not, please explain why, and what are some risks associated with the technique.
Does this crystal hair eraser have any side effects? “It will cause all the side effects of friction. Redness, burning and stinging, burns, and post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation are common. How will you rub it like this on uneven surfaces like the underarms and bikini region? It will cause so much damage to sensitive regions of the body. So tread very very carefully before you buy into the product’s propositions,” affirms Dr. Sravya.
Dr. Sushma agrees, “It’s too soon to say whether it’s completely safe, but the process seems like an incredibly abrasive and aggressive way to remove hair. It can lead to significant redness of the skin, irritation, and in-growth. You can experiment with it for curiosity’s sake. If you do, exfoliate your skin before using the device, and follow it up with tons of barrier-repair cream and moisturiser. Don’t forget to apply SPF on the hands and legs.”
What are we thinking, gals?
Featured Image: Instagram
