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.

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.
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.
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.
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.
TIP: If the mixture is too inflexible, try adding water. If it's too runny, heat it for another few minutes.
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!
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.
TIP: For the halaweh to remove hair effectively, the hair must be at least one-quarter-inch long.
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.
FACT: In many Middle Eastern households, children often eat the halaweh leftovers.