To choose the best epilation cream, you first need to determine which part of the hair removal process you're looking to use the cream for. Creams for use both before and after epilation are available; creams that remove hair are typically depilatories, not epilation creams. Once you've decided which part of the process you're looking for a cream for, you'll want to consider what ingredients are included and what part of the body you plan to use it on.

During epilation, hair is removed from below the skin. There are many different ways epilation can be performed, including waxing, threading, using an epilator, or with the use of lasers. Most creams that remove hair are depilatories; this means that they dissolve the hair from the surface of the skin, but do not remove the entire hair from the root.

Creams can be used before epilation, to clean the skin and soften it. For best results, the skin should be completely dry before most methods of epilation are used, so you will probably want to choose a pre-treatment cream that is designed to be absorbed quickly. It may be necessary to pat the skin dry after applying them, however.

After epilation creams are designed to soothe the skin once the hair has been removed. You may want to choose a cream that contains ingredients like tea tree oil or aloe vera that help cool the skin and reduce redness. Some people choose an after epilation cream that contains an antiseptic, which many help heal the skin. You may also want to consider creams that contain ingredients which may slow the regrowth of hair and help prevent ingrown hairs.

If you are looking for a cream to remove hair, you'll typically be choosing a depilatory, which dissolves hair from the surface of the skin, rather than a epilation cream. To choose the best depilatory cream, you'll want to look for one designed for the particular part of the body that you're treating; the skin on the face is much more sensitive than the rest of the body, so you should choose a cream specifically designed for that area. Some people are very sensitive to the harsh chemicals in most depilatories, so you'll want to patch test before using one. There are creams available that contain fewer chemicals and may be more appropriate for sensitive skin. You may also want to choose a cream that contains moisturizers, especially if you have dry skin.

When selecting any type of epilation cream, you should consider the location where you are attempting to remove hair. As with depilatories, it's usually better to use a cream designed for sensitive skin on the face or other areas with delicate skin. If you aren't sure, check the packaging on the epilation cream; the instructions should say if it's appropriate for use on the face.