Potassium Thioglycolate
Quick Info: Alternative to calcium thioglycolate offering faster action but potentially more irritating
What it is: The potassium salt of thioglycolic acid, used as an alternative to calcium thioglycolate in depilatory creams, offering faster but potentially more aggressive hair removal action.
Function in Hair Removal:
- Rapidly breaks disulfide bonds in hair keratin
- Provides faster hair dissolution than calcium alternative
- Works effectively on coarse and resistant hair types
- Often used in professional or maximum strength formulations
Benefits:
- Faster action reduces required application time
- Highly effective on stubborn hair
- Allows for stronger formulations
- Preferred for professional salon use
Typical Usage: Professional depilatory treatments, maximum strength creams, and salon-grade products. Usually 2-6% concentration.
Safety Notes: FDA-approved with concentration restrictions. More irritating than calcium alternative. Requires careful timing and patch testing.
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