A Comparative Study for Pre-operative Skin Preparation - Shaving Versus Depilation Cream

Abstract

Background: The use of depilatory creams was shown to be effective, atraumatic, non-toxic and could be self-administered. Depilatory creams could be used safely on granulating wounds and did not give rise to bacterial growth.Subjects and Methods:A prospective, randomized study was carried out to compare the effect of pre-operative shaving with chemical depilation on wound infection in 100 patients.Results:It was shown that depilatory creams saved time for pre- operative preparation and had an advantage in areas where shaving was difficult. Their use was associated with significance.Conclusion: The depilatory cream has an advantage in areas which are difficult to shave or if the patient is scheduled to undergo diagnostic procedures and operations in the same area in close succession