A depilatory is a cosmetic product or substance used to remove unwanted hair from the body. Depilatories typically come in the form of creams, lotions, or gels that are applied to the skin, left on for a specified period of time, and then wiped or rinsed off, taking the hair with them. They work by breaking down the protein structure of the hair, making it weak enough to be wiped or washed away from the skin. Depilatories are commonly used on areas such as legs, underarms, and the bikini line. It is important to follow the instructions carefully when using depilatory products, as they can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions if not used correctly.