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Abrasives
for hair removal
The removal of unwanted body hair using abrasives can be dated
back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks used
pumice stone, a type of volcanic glass, and other abrasives to remove
hair. Pumice stones are still available today, but modern pumice
stones are made from powdered pumice rock that is then pressed into
solid "stone" shapes. Most typically the pumice stones
available in the average pharmacy are quite rough and intended for
use in removing dead skin on feet. Pumice stones specifically designed
for hair removal have a smoother texture, but are not widely available.
Other abrasive products used for hair removal include fine grain
graphite paper - like that used in metal and woodworking. Essentially
the same thing, but sewn into a mitten to wear over the hand, can
be found in some pharmacies.
The principle of using abrasives to remove hair is simple. Rubbing
the abrasive over the skin generates mechanical friction that wears
down the hairs to the skin surface. When first starting to use abrasives
to remove hair the best approach is to shave first and get rid of
most of the hair. Then a day later try the abrasive. The bristly
stubble hair growth will be much easier to abrade (wear down) than
long, flexible hair. Continue to use the abrasive regularly to maintain
a smooth finish. Using an abrasive can work well on the legs and
on the scalp, but is not suitable for the soft skin of the face.
Hair removal with abrasives is quite popular among men in the African-American
community who want a smooth shaved head look.
These abrasive hair removal products are cheap and easy to use.
They are also less likely to cause skin irritation as compared to
chemical depilatories or waxing. However, they are slow and tedious
to use if you are treating a large area of skin. If the abrasive
is overused or rubbed too aggressively the skin will become irritated
and even raw. After using an abrasive, it is a good idea to massage
some non-perfumed moisturizing cream or lotion into the area to
lessen any skin irritation. Abrasives do not remove the hair below
the skin surface and this will quickly regrow, so to maintain a
lack of hair the abrasive must be used frequently.
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