Religious Reasons for Hair Removal

Hair removal is a common practice in religious culture. Shaving the head is a popular religious ritual. Buddhist, Christian, Jain and Hindu traditions men remove all the hair from their heads. Monks in these regions undergo head shaving during ordination. In Thailand monks shave their eyebrows as well.

Jewish laws monitor the way men can remove their hair. Men are not allowed to touch razor blades directly against the skin. Men can use an electric razor. Sideburns are never shorter than the cheekbone.

Muslins divide hair into three different categories. The categories are hair that can be removed, hair that cannot be removed and hair that does not make a difference. Muslins remove hair from armpits and pubic areas. Muslins, men and women, are not allowed be remove any hair from the eyebrows.

Brahmin children have their heads ritualistically shaved before school begins. It is common practice to leave a topknot of hair on the children who are sick. This is a sign to treat these children with special attention. When the child gets better the topknot is removed.

In all of these religions a razor cannot be used. When these religious people refer to shaving they are simply talking about removing the hair from whatever region that they want. Many of them use waxing in one form or another to remove hair. Natural treatment can be used for hair removal.

Sugaring is an old traditional way to remove hair. This is a natural treatment that works. Making a sugar solution, combine two cups sugar and one-quarter cup lemon juice in a saucepan.  Bring to a boil. Stirring often, boil for twenty-five minutes, Mixture will be in a firm ball stage. Remove from heat and allow to cool. Scoop small portion with your fingertips. Apply to hair to be removed. Press down firmly. Lift and pull off quickly.

This paste is used in India. It is another natural way to remove unwanted hair. Mix three tablespoons chickpea flour and one tablespoon turmeric with a little oil to make a paste. Spread paste on hair you want to remove. Allow to dry. Rub off against the grain of hair growth.