How to Use the Viral Magic Shaving Powder From TikTok — Expert Advice

“Pseudofolliculitis barbae [razor bumps], a condition commonly seen in brown-skin men that results from shaving, can be very frustrating for those who deal with it,” she says. “Depilatories are certainly one potential solution; there are others as well.”

Like King mentioned earlier, this depilatory powder contains a combination of calcium hydroxide, calcium thioglycolate, and calcium carbonate. She explains that the thioglycolate breaks down the hair for removal, the hydroxide controls the pH level of the product, and the carbonate absorbs moisture to achieve a closer shave. 

While none of these ingredients are uncommon in chemical hair removers, they do pose a risk of skin irritation, according to San Diego board-certified dermatologist Melanie Palm. “Additionally, this product contains fragrance as well as other ingredients like cinnamon derivates and linalool, which can cause contact allergies of the skin,” she adds. “Not good news.”

Palm overall suggests sticking to drugstore formulas formulated for the arms and legs, like Nair and Veet — but if you’re going to try the Magic Shaving Powder on your body anyway, do a patch test first. That especially goes for those of you with sensitive skin.

“Like on the face, a test spot is essential if using on the legs and arms,” Woolery-Lloyd says. Gohara agrees: “Before using this powder or any depilatory, make sure to test it out,” she advises. “The upper thigh near the buttock is a good area to test, as it is hidden if you do get a reaction.”

And whatever you do, avoid applying it to the genitals at all costs. “The genital area has especially sensitive skin and the depilatory cream could easily burn mucosal skin,” Woolery-Lloyd explains. “For this reason, the genital area is too sensitive and risky for a strong depilatory cream.”

If you do patch tests on your legs and arms and have no negative reaction, proceed with caution and follow the product’s instructions exactly when mixing and applying the Magic Shaving Powder to your face or body. “Repeated applications in a short period of time increase the risk of sensitivity, so it is important to wait at least 24 hours between applications,” Woolery-Lloyd advises.

Additionally, be mindful not to apply the powder on underarms while you’re wearing antiperspirant or deodorant. Don’t use a razor until 36 hours post-removal. Don’t use the depilatory after extended sun exposure and don’t use it with alcohol-heavy products. But don’t take these tips from us — you can take them from the product itself, as Woolery-Lloyd points out. “All of these recommendations are on the packaging,” she says.

All products featured on MakeupJet are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

More on hair removal:

Now, see how hair removal has evolved within the past 100 years: