How to Make "Halaweh" (Natural Hair Remover)
This all-natural hair remover, called halaweh in Arabic, has been used in Middle Eastern homes for centuries.
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You Will Need
- A saucepan
- 2 c. sugar
- 1/2 c. water
- 1/4 c. lemon juice
- A plate or plastic wrap
Steps
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Step 1
Heat the pan
Heat the empty saucepan on low for 30 seconds to a minute. Slowly add in the sugar, water, and lemon juice, and stir.
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Step 2
Stir and boil
Continue to stir slowly with a wooden spoon until the mixture becomes smooth and begins to bubble. After a couple of minutes at a low boil, turn the heat to low.
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Step 3
Let cool
After about five minutes, when the mixture has turned thick and dark brown, remove it from the heat and let it cool for 15 minutes.
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Step 4
Pour out
Pour the mixture onto the plate or plastic wrap so it spreads out flat. It should be thick and move slowly, like molasses.
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If the mixture is too inflexible, try adding water. If it's too runny, heat it for another few minutes.
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Step 5
Pull and stretch
Pull and stretch the mixture like taffy between your hands. After a few pulls, its color will lighten from brownish to a shiny golden brown. It’s now ready to use!
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Step 6
Spread
Roll a golf-ball size piece of halaweh between your hands. Using your thumb, spread the ball over the skin in the same direction as the hair growth. Press hard.
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For the halaweh to remove hair effectively, the hair must be at least one-quarter-inch long.
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Step 7
Rip
In a quick, smooth motion, rip off the halaweh in the opposite direction of hair growth. Repeat until all the hair is gone.
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In many Middle Eastern households, children often eat the halaweh leftovers.
