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Natural Remedies for Hypertrichosis: Reduce Excess Hair

| Modified on Jan 30, 2024
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Hypertrichosis, characterized by excessive body hair growth, can be a source of discomfort and self-consciousness for many individuals. While medical treatments are available, natural remedies can offer a gentler approach to managing this condition. This article delves into various natural solutions for reducing excessive body hair growth.

Dietary Adjustments: A Nutritional Approach

A healthy diet plays a vital role in managing hypertrichosis. Consider incorporating the following dietary changes:

  • Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help regulate hormones and reduce excessive hair growth.
  • Low-Glycemic Foods: Foods with a low glycemic index can help balance insulin levels, potentially impacting hair growth.
  • Soy Products: Soy contains phytoestrogens, which may help balance hormones and reduce hair growth.

Herbal Remedies: Natural Hair Reduction Solutions

Several herbs are known for their potential to reduce excessive hair growth:

  • Spearmint Tea: Spearmint is believed to have anti-androgen properties, which can help in reducing hair growth.
  • Green Tea: Rich in antioxidants, green tea may also have anti-androgen effects.
  • Licorice Root: Contains phytoestrogens, which might help in balancing hormones.

Topical Natural Treatments

Applying natural substances directly to the skin can also help manage hypertrichosis:

  • Turmeric and Milk Paste: When applied to the skin, a paste made from turmeric and milk can help slow down hair growth.
  • Lemon and Honey: This natural mixture can be used as a gentle hair removal method.

Stress Management: Impact on Hair Growth

Stress can affect hormone levels and potentially exacerbate hypertrichosis. Stress-reduction activities like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises can help manage stress and its effects on the body.

Regular Exercise: Hormonal Balance and Health

Regular physical activity helps maintain hormonal balance and overall health, which can indirectly impact hair growth.

Conclusion

Natural remedies for hypertrichosis, including dietary adjustments, herbal treatments, topical applications, stress management, and regular exercise, provide a holistic approach to managing excessive body hair. While these methods may offer relief, it's important to remember that results can vary, and consulting with a healthcare professional is recommended before starting any new treatment. Embracing these natural solutions can help individuals seeking a non-invasive and gentle way to reduce excessive hair growth and improve their quality of life.

The comments below reflect the personal experiences and opinions of readers and do not represent medical advice or the views of this website. The information shared has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease or health condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
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Alum and Rose Water

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Posted by Jess (Melbourne) on 04/13/2015
 ★★★★★

Hey, thanks for the responses. I have found shaving alum and rosewater is easy to find. I tried it by dipping the shaving alum in a bowl of rose water and rubbing it onto my skin after I wax. I noticed my facial, thigh and upper arm hair are very short and blonde especially my thighs the hairs are so sort and barely noticeably but everywhere else is still the same. It hasn't permanently removed the hairs but I noticed a difference in thickness.

Alum and Rose Water
Posted by Jess (Melbourne, Australia) on 09/26/2012

Hi Everyone, I just wated to ask will shaving alum work the same as alum powder? If I just dip it into rose water and apply it, will it work the same?

I'm assuming if I use this on my face it will work the same as body hair, is that correct? I don't see why not.

Do I need to remove the hair before I apply the alum and rose water? and if I wax can I apply the alum and rose water straight after or will it be too strong?

Thank you all so much for your help :)

Replied by Jess
(Australia)
01/06/2015

I have written on this site and asked about Shaving alum and rosewater but I still have no yet received an answer.

For the last 2 years I have been getting my facial hairs threaded and after I dip my solid shaving alum into rosewater and rub it on my face, it stings a little but it has not removed my hair at all, I've been doing this for the last 2 years. I can't find alum powder here in Australia so I guess shaving alum was the wrong kind.

Replied by Betsy
(Wilmington, De)
01/06/2015

Hi Jess,

Have you checked the cooking and spice section of your grocery store for Alum? It's very common item here in the US.

Out of curiosity, I just checked Amazon's Australia web site and see it doesn't show up there. Very odd indeed. Maybe an international grocery store will have it in the spice section.

Replied by Suseeq
(Sydney, Australia)
01/06/2015

Betty, there is a lot of things that you lucky people can get hold of that us Australians can not.

Replied by Jenn
(Cobbora, Australia)
01/06/2015

In response to Alum and Rose water, both are available for a minimal cost in Australia.

Research online if unsure but generally you can buy Alum powder 250 gr for around $10.50.

Rose water is available in the cake section of supermarkets as it is used for icing mixtures..or you can get it from the local health food shop for a bit more expense..

Living in Sydney you should have a much better access to these than where I live, and I can buy them locally.

Email me if you are unable to access any and I'll do what I can for you!

Blackstrap Molasses

2 User Reviews
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Posted by Kim (Westport, MA) on 02/11/2007
 ★★★★★

Hi there I have been reading and applying the remedies on this site now for over a week with positive results. Since I have added taking 1 tablespoon full of blackstrap molasses every morning before or after my acv concoction, I have noticed something different about the hair growth I suffer from on my face. It I feel has retarded the growth, slowing it down so I don't have to pluck so often. Could it be true? I have suffered for years and years with this condition, I think due to polycystic syndrome. Is it possible that possibly the magnesium in the molasses is affecting my hormones in such a positive way? All I know is, I will keep taking the acv and backing soda for general well-being and pain reduction, along with my tablespoon of black strap molasses to help with female issues and help reduce pain as well. I have noticed my knee pain that was really bad, has almost totally gone away. When I mention what I do to others they simply shake there head roll there eyes, and decide its not for them. But I have to say my excitement and testimonials are making some wonder! All I know is my contact dermatitis disappeared, and pain has greatly diminished and now facial hair slowing down...I am waiting for my body to begin showing me more signs of all of the natural elements being to cure/heal& be gone! I am in awe of this site and appreciate all the feedback I read.

Replied by Elizabeth
(Easton, Maryland)
01/23/2011
★★★★★

Hi Kim, I also take organic, unsulphered BSM for ovarian cysts. After I began taking 2 tbsp/day my cysts disappeared as did most of the symptoms that came along with them!! It is wonderful to be able to treat this ailment with something so natural! Best wishes to you! ~Liz

Replied by Erika
(Oakland, Ca, Usa)
05/12/2011

Thank you so much for this information, Kim! I was recently diagnosed with PCOS and have had excess facial hair growth for a few years now. I am excited to treat it naturally and it sounds like blackstrap molasses will really help - I'm definitely going to give it a try!

Replied by Jessie
(Nunya, Usa)
08/08/2011

im sorry. But how do you use the blackstrap mollasis?? you eat it, right?? O. O and how long does it take to see improvements??

Replied by Lovelife
(India, Up)
10/16/2011

Hi Elizabeth.. Congrats on your success! I want to know that whether your periods were irregular and scanty before going for this natural remedy. And were usuffering from hirsutism problem. kindly reply...

Replied by Worried !
(Karachi, Pakistan)
12/17/2011

Hey can you please tell me the exact procedure to take molasses? My sister has ovarian cysts, she had them removed surgically once but they are back again! Any natural remedy would help tons!

Replied by Mariam
(Jacksonville, Florida)
01/29/2012

Hi Kim, can you please tell us exactly what blackstrap mollases is, how it works, and whether it should be applied to the skin or just eaten. Step by step in details please. Please reply asap!!

Replied by Candance
(Fremont, Nebraska)
10/28/2012

I mix a tablespoon of Black Strap Molasses and 1 tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar in aprox 2 cups of water. It tastes like prune juice.

Cocoa Butter, Calomel, Epsom Salt

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Posted by Brooke (Montgomery, TX) on 03/09/2008
 ★★★★★

Cocoa Butter - 3 drams (1 dram = 1/8 oz.)
Calomel - 2 grains
Epson Salts - 20 grains

Mix these thoroughly, with a mortar and pestle. Massage this ointment gently in the areas where you want to remove the hair. Leave it on for 15-20 minutes, then rub off. After, use coconut oil, or any good natural moisturizer.

Replied by Sarah
(Alamosa, Colorado)
04/26/2008

I saw a recipe for natural hair removal but am having problems finding calomel (horn quicksilver, mercurous chloride). Any suggestions on where to purchase?

Replied by Pati
(Alexandria, VA)
09/22/2008

Sarah, calomel is toxic and isn't allowed in laxatives or makeup anymore - maybe that is why you are having trouble finding it...

Replied by Sonia
(San Diego, CA)
11/16/2008

If you google calomel, a lot of links for mercury come up.

Replied by Lathika
(Vizag, A.P., India)
07/15/2009

actually it is not that easy for me to get these produts in a.p. market.so, please tell me in what kind of shops does these calomel and epsomsalt available.please do answer this question.

Replied by Kathy
(Nevada, NV)
07/17/2009

what is calomel? And is this a permanent hair removel/ Can I use this on my face? Where can I buy it?

EC: Calomel, aka Mercury Chloride, was an old-time remedy. Read this page from an 1854 magazine called "The Eclectic Medical Journal"on google books.

Also see:

http://www.1911encyclopedia.org/Calomel

and

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercury(I)_chloride

"Safety considerations
Main article: Mercury poisoning

Mercurous chloride is toxic, although due to its low solubility in water it is generally less dangerous than its mercuric chloride counterpart. It was used in medicine as a diuretic and purgative (laxative) in the U.S. from the early 1830s through the 1860s. Calomel was also a common ingredient in teething powders in Britain up until 1954, causing widespread mercury poisoning in the form of pink disease, which at the time had a mortality rate of 1 in 10.[6] These medicinal uses were later discontinued when the compound's toxicity was discovered.

It has also found uses in cosmetics as soaps and skin lightening creams, but these preparations are now illegal to manufacture or import in many countries including U.S., Canada, Japan and Europe. A study of workers involved in the production of these preparations showed that the sodium salt of 2,3-dimercapto-1-propanesulfonic acid (DMPS) was effective in lowering the body burden of mercury and in decreasing the urinary mercury concentration to normal levels.

Replied by Brooke
(Montgomery, Tx, Usa)
12/05/2010

Hi Sarah, sorry for not posting back. I will give you the direct quote from the Cayce readings - I am not sure where you can by Calomel - I have searched online but you may be able to find a pharmacist that can order it for you. 14. (Q) Since diet has not caused hair on lips to diminish, is there anything which will prevent this that can be used externally? Will cutting or bleaching increase growth?
(A) Do not shave off, do not attempt to bleach or dye, but use this mixture:

Cocoa Butter......... 3 drams,
Calomel.............. 2 grains,
Epsom Salts......... 20 grains. Mix these thoroughly, as with mortise and pestle. Massage this ointment gently in the areas where there are the disturbances from superfluous hair, and after leaving on for fifteen to twenty minutes, rub off. This used as an ointment will remove hair without injury to the body. To be sure, mercury is in the calomel, and this is a poison, but with this combination and in this quantity there is not sufficient for a body to absorb enough to become detrimental to the body-forces. After this is used, as the base for a better skin condition use the Genuine Black and White Cream.

Replied by Merryanne
(Orange City, Florida, Usa)
12/06/2010
113 posts

Hello Brook, There is a company that makes and sells many if not all of the Edgar Cayce products, do a search and you will fine it or call the Edgar Casey clinic.

Replied by Brooke
(Montgomery, Tx, Usa)
12/06/2010

Oh good Merryanne!!!!! Can you please tell me what Cayce center sells the Calomel? I would really like that! I have been searching for it since the early 80's! Please tell me! I will share it with everyone I know! And Thank you again!

Replied by Mh
(Toronto, On, Canada)
12/11/2011

Folks, calomel is (thankfully) banned virtually everywhere, and is highly, highly toxic, even if only applied to skin. Mercury preparations will surely stop your hair growth -- by killing you!

Replied by Kadi
(Colombia)
09/05/2013

Hi I read this post and I was wondering if you have actually used this recipe and if so what were your results? Also how would I measure out a grain? Thanks

Replied by Karen
(Virginia Beach, Va)
06/10/2014

If anyone is still interested in the Edgar Cayce for superfluous hair removal mixture, Here's what I found.

Here is a seller on eBay that sells Calomel (Mercury(I) chloride)

Link: http://www.ebay.com/itm/Mercury-I-chloride-99-995-for-analysis-ACS-ultrapure-30g-tx-/271424725527?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f322ca217

Please be careful. If you decide to give it a try, remember to follow the directions EXACTLY! This is NOT an ingredient you want to use more of than the recipe calls for.

Here again is an excerpt of Edgar Cayce Reading 2582-4

(For Superfluous Hair Removal Mixture Recipe)

(Q) Since diet has not caused hair on lips to diminish, is there anything which will prevent this that can be used externally? Will cutting or bleaching increase growth?

(A) Do not shave off, do not attempt to bleach or dye, but use this mixture: Cocoa Butter......... 3 drams, Calomel.............. 2 grains, Epsom Salts......... 20 grains. Mix these thoroughly, as with mortise and pestle. Massage this ointment gently in the areas where there are the disturbances from superfluous hair, and after leaving on for fifteen to twenty minutes, rub off. This used as an ointment will remove hair without injury to the body. To be sure, mercury is in the calomel, and this is a poison, but with this combination and in this quantity there is not sufficient for a body to absorb enough to become detrimental to the body-forces. After this is used, as the base for a better skin condition use the Genuine Black and White Cream."

Coconut Oil, Flaxseed Oil

2 User Reviews
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Posted by Andrea (Natchez, Mississippi) on 08/11/2016
 ★★★★★

Editor's Choice

About 3 years ago, to my horror, I found a course thick black hair growing on my chin, at first I plucked it and It stayed gone almost 10 months, (the time frame is very accurate because it just so happened the hair first appeared on my 33rd birthday) but now It appears about once every 9 weeks . So about 3 months ago, for unrelated reasons, I began looking into Natural/organic skin care and whipped up this exfoliating scrub using the following:

  • organic ground flaxseed
  • coconut oil
  • Himalayan Pink Salt
  • a few drops of tea tree oil

**also after having a cup of lemon zinger tea I emptied the contents of the tea bag into the mixture with a little bit of boiling hot, store bought distilled water **

Well, because the flaxseed thickens and gets super slimmy it went from a scrub to more of a mask that I left on for about 15 minutes after it was dry, then I added little warm water & was able to use it as an exfoliating scrub after all, a gentle once over and my face felt and smelled amazing, my skin was so smooth and it was brighter.

As I said before, usually that hideous hair showed up about every 9 weeks but it's been over 12 weeks since I used the scrub and NO HAIR ON MY CHIN!!! *

*I think using the boiling water brought out the oil from the flaxseed but please don't take that as fact I'm only guessing

** I am convinced it was the flaxseed bc I've been using the other ingredients for a while, and the hair was still coming back. now I just boil some water add it to the ground flaxseed, Pink salt and coconut oil, paint it on, let it dry then scrub myself head to toe ...my skin is so happy smoothe and it even seems that the little bit of cellulite I began to notice About a year ago (butt and thighs) seems not so visible these days...

Probably use this 3 or 4 Times a week for body and for face I just add boiling water to ground flaxseed for a sticky but soothing moisturizing skin brightener just about daily....

Replied by Britni
(Oamaru)
05/01/2018

Do you have to put this mask on 3-4 times a week every single week? Or is there a certain amount of time like a month for the hair to be permanently gone?

Coconut Oil, Flaxseed Oil
Posted by Sandy (Christchurch) on 11/03/2015 2 posts
 ★★★★★

I have had course hairs on my chin for several years, made worse when I decided to pluck them, I usually pluck these hairs twice a week, About 6 weeks ago I made flax seed oil for my hair, and decided to put some on my face to see if it would be good for my skin, around the same time I also applied coconut oil....I used both of these products for about 2 weeks but stopped as I didn't like the tight feeling it gave my skin.

From the time I started using the gel and oil I noticed the hair on my chin had stopped growing, I kept feeling for hair to pluck and NOTHING..It has been 6 weeks and to date I have pulled out 3 hairs.....This is so weird...I figured if it is the oils then when I stopped using them the hair would return..but it hasn't.

Replied by Teresa
(Chicago, Il)
03/23/2016

Hello, Sandy. How did you make the flaxseed oil? Is organic flaxseed oil the same? Very interested because I have the same problem...Chin hairs. I've been plucking them for the last 15 years, on a daily basis!! Really would love to know if I can use organic flaxseed oil instead of making my own. Thank you!

Epilator, Alum and Rose Water

6 User Reviews
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Posted by Nicole (Melbourne, Australia) on 06/09/2013
 ★★★☆☆

WORKED TEMPORARILY

Shaving alum and rosewater:

Hello everyone, Right after I wax I dip the solid shaving alum into a bowl with rosewater in it and apply it to the skin for an hour or half an hour depending on the area. It does sting a lot but it's worth it. I use this on my face, arms and legs.

I have noticed a huge difference, the hairs are lighter, thinner, take longer to grow out and I have a few bald spots.

But if I don't wax for 2 months the hair grow back in the bald spots, I thought the alum and rosewater was supposed to permanently get rid of the hair but the hairs are still there, they just take longer to grow back and are much thinner.

Is alum and rosewater supposed to get rid of hairs permanently or am I mistaken?

Can anyone please tell me why this is happening? Do I need to be more patient?

Thanks for all your help by introducing this method to me and thank you in advance for all your answers :)

Replied by Kaevi
(SAn Diego, Ca)
05/19/2018

Hi Nicole,

Thanks for sharing the update.

Did you continue using the rose water and alum? Was there any improvement?

Replied by Merci
(Usa)
05/20/2018

What about waxing? Does anyone do that? I am thinking about trying it but am worried about side effects. Would this possibly make pores larger?

Replied by Kay
(Russia)
08/08/2018

Hi,

How is your hairs now? Is it gone forever?

Epilator, Alum and Rose Water
Posted by Beth (Dublin, Ireland) on 10/15/2010

OK, I managed to get the alum powder, I made it into a paste with the rose water, however it is very gritty and find it hard to adhere to the skin, it dries up pretty quickly when applied and flakes off after a minute or two. Am I mixing it wrong? Is there anything else I can mix with it, to make it stick to the skin better? Thanks Beth.

Replied by Tish
(Toronto, Ontario)
10/16/2010

This is for Beth from Dublin. You are doing it right , the stuff does dry up pretty fast, you can reapply if you like. What I have found convenient is that I got this solid alum, like u get them in chunks, so all I do is take a little bit of rose water in a bowl and dip this piece of alum and rub on my face for a few minutes and leave it on for an hour later rinse with water ansd apply coconut oil to make the skin smooth. Hopw this helped.

Replied by Citygirl27
(Richardson, Tx)
06/01/2012

Tish from Toronto, or any others who have used solid alum: I got some solid alum "Shaving alum" from an Indian market (large Indian market is at southwest corner of Belt Line and US 75, Richardson Texas). How do I get alum powder or benefits from the alum block? Mine looks like a bar of soap shape, but is alum. Any tips would be great. TY citygirl from Richardson, Texas.

Replied by Jess
(Melbourne, Australia)
09/28/2012

Yes I have the same question, I got the shaving alum and its sold and looks like a bar of soap, will that work the same as alum power if I dip it into rose water?

Epilator, Alum and Rose Water
Posted by Sara (Sacramento, Ca, USA) on 10/09/2010

Dear Friends, I am just wondering if someone out there know to remove hair naturally. Someone was talking about Alum and Rose Water. If she is reading my question please get back to me with more details. Thanks, Sara

Replied by Francisca
(Michelbach-le-bas, Alsace, France)
10/10/2010

I have no answer for you but another way seems to be fenugreek with water. Make a paste, apply and let dry. I haven't tried yet but I read it in one of my books.

Replied by Mas
(Rockville, Maryland)
12/26/2011
★★★★☆

Hi, I have excessive facial hair and have tried so many kind of hair removing method including laser treatment but nothing really worked for me. I've been using alum and rose water for the past 2 months and I can definately see the improvement. The hair does grow back but much finer. I bought the alum at an asian store in Rockville, Maryland. Thank you

Replied by G
(Nyc, Ny)
12/28/2011

"Mas from Rockville, Maryland"... What brand of rose water do you use? Thanks.

Replied by Mas
(Rockville, Maryland)
01/04/2012

I bought rose water from an Indian store. Any brand will do.

Replied by Naturallysimple
(Just Call It Heaven, United States)
09/10/2012

Even though it's been a long time now since you gals posted this, could you still share:

How many times you do it?

What brand the alum powder you used?

I am using the alum powder that comes crushed and in a plastic bag, but usng the big solid alum sounds perfect. Any help would be appreciated. THANKS! :D

Replied by Jess
(Melbourne, Australia)
10/09/2012

Is shaving alum the same thing? thats the only one I've been able to find. Can I just dip it into rosewater and then apply it to my skin, will that work the same?

Replied by Citygirl27
(Richardson, Tx, Usa)
10/13/2012

I can't remember the brand but it is in the section of Asian markets where the skin care, shower products and hair care are located. Found it near some maca products.

Epilator, Alum and Rose Water
Posted by Jocelyn (New York, Us) on 09/24/2009
 ★☆☆☆☆

i have been using the alum powder with the rose water every day for a month, and i got the opposite outcome. i have more hair growth rather than getting rid of hair. I am getting worried...

Epilator, Alum and Rose Water
Posted by Hafs (London, UK) on 07/12/2009
 ★★★★★

getting rid of excessive bodily hair: I found by using a good quality epilator on my body in 2 years I have almost totally eradicated my hair on arms and legs .I looked like a chimp before. My facial growth is really severe for that i've found ground powdered alum mixed with a good quality rose water rubbed on daily after I thread my facial hair. I rubb it in and leave on for about 1 hour reapplying if necessary .(if I don't thread daily I get a beard within 2/3 days) is finally making a difference .Aftr two month I can actually see a difference and now only thread every 2 or 3 days.This is a remedies used in Pakistan , i've seen many totally hairless women who swear by it.Works even on under arms etc. Apparently girls use it from the onset of puberty and within a couple of years are hairless on any part of the body. Best of luck to any one who suffers as I have since my teenage years.

Replied by Kay
(The Valley, California)
07/14/2009

Can you tell us if you made a paste out of the alum and rose water or just put a little alum in the rose water? Some approx. measurements of the ingredients would be very helpful. I'm not sure what you mean by 'reapply if necessary'. What would make it necessary? Thanks so much for sharing your experience, and I'm looking forward to learning more.

Replied by saf
(London, UK)
07/15/2009

Hi, Is Alum an indian spice AKA Fatakdi?? And can I purchase this from an indian grocery shop??? Do you make a paste and leave it on for an hour everyday?

EC: Per Wikipedia: "Alum powder, found in the spice section of many grocery stores, may be used in pickling recipes as a preservative to maintain fruit and vegetable crispness."

Replied by Hafs
(London, UK)
07/17/2009

Yeah that's the stuff, really mix it in the rose water well, powder if necessary. Alum can irritate so if you're sensitive leave for less time but make sure you're rose water is not the cheap grocery shop brand. It works, takes time i've got patches now where hair don't grow and the hair has became really fine in some places.

Replied by Hafs
(London, UK)
07/22/2009

Hi Kay I mix approx 1/2 tspn of ground alum powder with 2-4 tbspns rose water. Mix well till alum dissolves then apply to face with cotton wool or fingers as I do. Leave on for minimum 15 minutes to 1 hour.,or longer,if you're not too sensitive.It's more effective after hair removal when it penetrates the roots.Sometimes it dries powdery on your face within a few minutes then you could re apply it. Be careful of eyebrows or hairline or eye lashes because if it falls on those they'll disappear aswell. Best regards

Replied by Saf
(London, Uk)
08/13/2009

Hi there, I have tried to mix the rose water and alum powder together but the powder does not seem to dissolve at all. The powder sits at the bottom even after I have stirred it for a good few minutes. Any suggestions ??

Replied by Hafs
(London, Uk)
08/18/2009

Hi, I normally keep stirring eventually it dissolves .Otherwise rub into face and keep reapplying rosewater to stop it drying out but this can make your face sensitive and have a caustic effect. As long as you get the alum into your skin so it is absorbed with the rose water it's ok. I often wonder if adding alittle apple cider vinegar (IT MAY HELP TO ABSORB ALUM INTO HAIR FOLLICLES) would speed things up but am reluctant to try since for the first time in my life something is actually working on my hair problem. BEST REGARDS

Replied by Jocelyn
(New York, New York, Usa)
08/26/2009

I live in new york, the only alum powder i found was ammonium alum U.S.P powdered. Is it ok to use this?

Replied by Kelly
(Ny, Us)
08/28/2009

Thank you, for sharing with us all. Can i use the granulated alum ?, i can't find it in powdered form.

Replied by Naj
(Birmingham, United Kingdom)
08/29/2009

Hi, im so glad that other people have been in this position. having facil hair is affecting me really bad i feel really down al the time. i have brought that alum powder and some rose water, it's not the very cheap usual rose water but not the very expensive one either.

can i apply the paste directly onto my face where i want to remove hair from without doing anything else before such as threading? im a bit cautious to thread or wax etc from stories ive heard.

will it work the same if i dont thread and just directly apply the paste??

thanks

Replied by Phyl
(Ocklawaha, Fl)
08/29/2009

Where do I buy rose water? Looked today but I could not find it at different stores

EC: We've seen rose water sold in all Indian, Middle Eastern, and international grocery stores. Very cheap item! Otherwise, check Google or Amazon: http://www.google.com/products?q=rose+water&hl=en&aq=f

Replied by Tracey
(Gainesville, Fl)
08/31/2009

what is threading?

EC: From: http://hairremoval.about.com/od/threading/f/facialthreading.htm

"Facial hair threading, a technique using a string to remove hair passed down through generations in eastern countries is becoming extremely popular here for many reasons, like being chemical-free and gentle to the skin."

"The process uses a cotton string using a twisting motion, to trap hair in a mini lasso that pulls up each hair right out of the follicle as it passes along the skin."

Replied by Hafs
(London, Uk)
09/01/2009

Hi, you don't have to remove all the hair beforehand it still works but i'm told it's a little slower.

I got alum as crystalls just grind them to a fine powder using a coffee grinder or soice grinder. If you get alum as a rock do the same. Break down to small pieces using a hammer then grind.

Replied by Leah
(Nyc, NY)
09/02/2009

And then after the 15 minutes to 1 hour, you wash it off with tap water? Thanks!

Replied by Leah
(Nyc, NY)
09/02/2009

Hi, I couldn't find alum powder, but I read that it's used in pickling. So I went into a spice store and I asked for fatakdi. He didn't know what it was. So I said, it's from India and it's used for pickling. So he gave me a yellow powder which looks like turmeric and he said it's called tourshi.

Does this sound like it's the same stuff? Is alum a mustard-yellow color?

What do you do after the 15 minutes, wash it off with water?

Thanks,
Leah

EC: Looks like Tourshi is an Armenian pickle dish! Here's a recipe: http://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,1636,153174-242193,00.html

Replied by Lisa
(Thousand Oaks, Ca)
09/02/2009

Hi Leah, We found ours in an East Indian food store. It came in large chunks and is clear so we just used a mortar and pestle and crushed it. Try going there because you can also find rose water there at a very low price. Hope this helps.

Replied by Leah
(Nyc, Nyc)
09/02/2009

LOL! Oh boy, I've been rubbing my legs with an Armenian pickle dish. YIKES!

EC: Hilarious!!

Replied by Leah
(Nyc, Nyc)
09/06/2009

Thank you very much, Lisa.

Replied by Leah
(Nyc, Nyc)
09/06/2009
★☆☆☆☆

WARNING!

CAUTION: I just found this:

http://www.mothering.com/discussions/archive/index.php/t-228711.html

Apparently alum powder is a dangerous substance. Can someone (like Ted) please comment on this? Today I was given crystals that I ground by hand into powder and now I don't know if I want to keep it around.....

Thanks,
Leah

Replied by Sheryl
(California, Us)
09/11/2009

So once you use it and see effects, do you have to use it all your life or stop when you achieve what you want? Thanx

Replied by Saima
(London, UK)
09/17/2009

saima78627 // @ // hotmail.co.uk is my email. Hafs could u please tell me which type of rosewater maybe brand name or where to buy. i do know that grocery shops one is not recommended

Replied by Kvt
(Palo Alto, Usa)
09/22/2009

Hafs, are you still noticing improvements with the facial hair? How long was it before you saw hairless patches?

Replied by -eaasdd
(Bristol, Uk)
01/12/2010

how often do you have to apply it ? everyday ?

Replied by Katya
(Chandigarh, India)
07/26/2010

Hey HAFS. . . . I just want to know- is this alum rose water mixture helpful for body hair and for how long do we have to use it? Do we have to use it life long?

Replied by C
(Calgary, Alberta)
08/03/2010

Does anyone know if this alum is the same that is sold as a natural deodorant stick? I would imagine it is but I want to make sure before I go out and buy it. There are no Indian stores where I live.

Replied by R
(Pune, India)
09/17/2010

Are there any side effects of using alum and rose water? I am 25 years old and had very fine facial hair and after getting laser treatment from kaya, the hair have become darker and more visible. I have already had 15 sittings for laser. But the situation is not improved. (Also all the harmonal tests are normal). I am to get married soon. I dont know what to do??? Can someone please help!!!!!

Replied by Nausheen
(Ad Doha, Qatar)
02/28/2011

Hey I was just wondering if alum is called fitakri in hindi ? also can I use it on my face? is it necessary to shave before using it?

Replied by Butterfly
(Singapore)
03/07/2011

Yes, alum is called fitkari in hindi. You can use it on your face to keep away pimples.

Replied by American Ed
(Silver Spring, Md)
04/12/2011

Third world countries have often used remedies that are dangerous. Due to the lack of medical access, extreme poverty, and the absence of social programs and agencies that protect people from toxic substances; home remedies have evolved that while they may work in some cases, they also have lethal or serious side effects. One recurring problem on the internet is the magnitude of misinformation, myths, old wive's tales, ignorance, economic conditions and desperation of persons who will try or believe anything. Alum is toxic and on a continued basis accumulates in the body.

threading and epilation are just fancy tweezing methods. The hair is ripped from the follicle causing damage each time. If this cycle is repeated often enough to the same hair follicle(this is the trick-more than one follicle may grow from a site and hair must be in the active phase to be effectively destroyed so multiple rounds will be required to destroy it. )regrowth will be inhibited. Women from India and the Middle East are very hairy-it is genetic. North Americans are next in terms of body hair, while sub-saharan Africans and persons from the Orient(Chinese, Japanese, Thailand etc. have the least amount of facial and body hair. Of course many people are a mixture of different ethnicities and reflect the combination of genes in regards to amount of hair. Women with serious excess should have medical evaluations done and the next groups for whom it is genetic, familial or socially undesirable (fashion has now decided that hair anywhere is to be removed) have a variety of methods. The only permanent method in the hands of a trained and capable operator is electrolysis. All other methods- laser, even waxing of large areas, threading, are temporary.

Laser does not work on light -colored hair or grey hair and special lasers afre required if you have pigmented skin and dark hair. All of these methods are expensive and time-consuming. If you wax, shave, pluck, tweeze, epilate or remove hair forcibly from the follicle, you need to exfoliate to prevent ingrown hairs especially if you have thick hair, textured hair or curly hair.

One problem with laser removal is that it can stimulate hair that might never become a problem. It will make these hair darker and coarser and it will appear that the laser it not working when it in effect is causing other hair to grow and thicken. We have millions of hairs and most of it will not grow to any visible degree unless stimulated-you can see this when you take a cast off after many weeks. To the woman who grew hair after laser, you probably want to use electrolysis especiall from a person who works on males transitiong to females because these operators are very good at getting at the follicle. If you have been epilating the hair using any of the above-mentioned methods, then electrolysis will take longer.

The other alternative for those who have no real problem but are victims of fashion, maybe it is time to rebel against the imposition of fashion nonsense and simply love ourselves. this does not apply to women who have hirsuitism or real excess that is socially and or psychologically disabling.

One treatment I forgot are creams that are available from your doctor that are effective in inhibiting hair growth. They work, but must be used on a regular basis and if stopped, the hair grows back. It would be a good alternative for some people who do not mind having to use a cream everyday.

Jan
(Australia)
07/12/2020

Hi American Ed,

Do you know specifically what creams you can get from the doctor to inhibit hair growth?

Regards,

Jan

Replied by Sunshine77
(Stockton, Ca)
05/17/2011

Sir, while I understand that much of what you say is true, you have never suffered as a female with excess hair growth. And even after everything you do.... waxing for ten years, laser treatments, etc.. the hair always grows back; nothing works. So this natural remedy may just be a miracle for some of us. I don't know yet as I haven't tried it, but I plan to, and I hope with all my heart that it works because no one, NO ONE, should ever have to feel like this.

Replied by T
(Phoenix, Az Usa)
05/24/2011

I'd love to know just how toxic this alum is. I really want to try it. I've been shaving my face since I was 14 - I am now 32. As mentioned before, and it's totally correct, NO ONE should have to live like this. I have to shave every single morning, and by nighttime I am prickly again. It sucks. Google isn't being too helpful in the possible alum danger department ><

Replied by Ana
(Ny)
07/16/2011
★★★★★

im using alum and rose water for 1 month. I can say its a miracle. When it drys I apply rose water every 5 min so it dosent fall. If u live in usa, u can find alum at any big food store (spice aisle) and im using rose water cortas brand

Replied by K
(San Jose, U.s)
08/04/2011

is this alum and rose water mixture only for facial hair?? I have hair all over, can I use it on my chest area n stomach.... ?? suggest....

Replied by Deepti M
(Schaumburg, Il, Usa)
01/20/2012

As already asked, although ALUM and ROSE WATER and experiences of other with this sounds promising but can anyone (MAYBE TED) please please comment if ALUM is toxic because some sites over the internet have some scary comments on even POTASSIUM ALUM.... Please help as I really want to try this....

I am suffering from excessive hair on face and body from a long time and really getting depressed because of the problem.... All my tests related to my hormones are normal and my mother and father are not hairy at all so I have no idea what's wrong with me.... please help.

Replied by Winnie
(Hampshire, Il, Us)
02/17/2012

To Deepti from Schaumburg - From what I've read, the adverse reactions people had to alum came from either ingesting it, or inhaling the powder, which, like talc, is very fine. When added to the rose water, there is no powder to be inhaled. But, I wouldn't snort it, or sprinkle it on popcorn!

Replied by Dan
(S.s., Md.)
03/09/2012

My wife, who is Filipino, introduced me to Alum. So, if you know of a Filipino grocery store (and there are a few around where I live in Silver Spring, Maryland) you can find it in it's rock, crystalline form..... It looks likke a chunk of ice. It is also called 'TAWAS' in Tagalog (one of the Filipino languages).

I actually used it for a bout of gingivitis..... A mouth wash. Now, my subsequesnt understanding is that there is a DIFFERENCE between the naturally occurring Alum and the synthetic version..... I have no idea, which is which.... Other than I have been getting the natural version from the Filipino grocery. It is also reputed to be good for all types of skin issues.... Like athletes foot. I believe the natural version is Potassium Alum.

If you look closely at the ingredients in a lot of toothpastes, you will see that Alum is often an ingredient. It is also a common ingredient of underarm deodorants.

What I do is mash it with a hammer, put it in a coffee mug of water, about 2 tablespoons (which makes it about a 5-1 mixture) and then HEAT IT UP. Put it in the microwave oven about the same time you would to re-heat a cup of coffee.... It will DISSOLVE, but it has to be hot to do so! ..... then, let it cool down before you apply to your skin (but stir it up each time you use it), or use as a mouth wash.

Now, I used this recipe for the mouth wash.... I don't know what one needs to do for hair removal. My wife tells me that if you use it for your feet, you make a footbath out of it. Fill a large pot/bowl and soak your feet for 20 minutes.... that sort of thing.

Good Luck! ... I sincerely hope some of this helps some one.

Replied by Winnie
(Hampshire, Il, Us)
03/09/2012

in response to Dan from S. S. , Md: Alum will dissolve in hot water as well; but, when cooled, it will reconstitute itself back into crystals, and settle in the bottom of the glass. It's amazing that alum doesn't do that when dissolved in the rose water. I'm thinking the rose water keeps the dissolved solution suspended. When I first stumbled on this post, I wondered "why rose water? what's so magic about that?" But, now, I think this is the reason why: it's a skin-friendly medium where the alum can stay dissolved.

I microwaved the rose water in a pyrex measuring cup, and dissolved the alum in that. I put the solution in a small applicator bottle (I emptied out my 'anti-puff Eye Roller' by ______ which has a steel roller on the top for the applicator. I never realized any benefit from this goofy thing anyway, so I figured I may as well make use of the container. ) This is the perfect solution for small areas such as the face. It's small, convenient and no mess, which is what it needs to be in order for me to keep with the regimen. I either have it handy in my pencil holder at my desk, or in my makeup basket, and use it several times a day. I've just been doing this for the past couple weeks, but can already tell the difference... With no epilator, by the way!

Although not sure, I'm not convinced that it matters if it dries or not - it's still on your skin. I used alum in powder form, from grocery store.

Replied by Deepti M
(Schaumburg, Il, usa)
03/28/2012

Just putting out some more facts about Alum so we all can make some informed choices :

http://chemicaloftheday.squarespace.com/most-controversial/2010/3/8/exposing-more-truths-about-alum.html

Replied by Cath
(London, Uk)
04/25/2012

Hi, I'm wondering if its possible for me to use potassium alum? I have some peach fuzz on my face and upper lip that I would like to go away, how long do you think it will take (I don't want to remove the hairs before using the alum)? Cath

Replied by Nia
(Melbourne, Australia)
10/12/2012

Hi there thanks everyone for this information I just have a few questions about the alum and rosewater mix, Can I use the solid shaving alum? is it the same as the powder? how to I apply it, do I rub it in or leave it on wet?

Replied by Nia
(Melbourne, Australia)
11/02/2012

Hi everyone I have waxed/epilated and then applied shaving alum and rosewater for a few days after I waxed and waited for the hairs to grow back and they grew back exactly the same, not thinner or lesser.

I tried it again for a second time (after a month when the hairs grew back) and saw no difference. I used shaving alum and I dipped it into rosewater and applied it to my skin.

Should I keep trying and just be patient? am I doing something wrong? Please help me

Replied by Cath
(London, Uk)
03/27/2013

Hi, Are you still seeing results from using alum and rose water? Do you need to remove the hair first? Thank you in advance.

Replied by Mounia
(Bahrain)
04/18/2016

For those who can't find Alum in Indian stores, you may check Arab's shops they call it 'shebba'.

Honey and Lemon Juice

1 User Review
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Posted by Shalu (Haryana, India) on 03/30/2011
 ★★★★★

Facial Hair Removal: Mix honey and lemon juice in equal proportions and apply on face for 10-15 minutes every alternate day. It also adds glow to your face. Thanks.

Laser Hair Removal

Posted by Lisa (Hudson, Ontario Canada) on 01/18/2012

On the subject of lazer hair removal, myself and both of my sisters suffer with unwanted facial hair growth and we have all had lazer therapy for this problem with successful results. We all have dark hair and dark skin. On some of the comments on this site some people said that they didn't have good results with the lazer; that their hair grew back and that it doesn't work if you have dark skin.

Before going for my therapy I would stay out of the sun to keep my face from getting tan and the dermatologist can also give a bleaching cream to lighten the skin if you need it before the therapy. The lazer does work best on darker thicker hair. I had to go about 10 times and I didn't have anymore hair growth for about a year and you have to go back once every 6 months to a year and have one treatment to keep it maintained.

The hair that grows after the treatment is not the same hairs that were treated with the lazer before- it is new ones that are coming back. The hair that is treated with the lazer doesn't come back because the lazer destroys the hair follicle. You can't just go and have treatments and never go back to keep it maintained because with this hair growth problem you will always have new hair growth. It doesn't work for people with blonde or gray hair but I was told by my technician that they are working on developing a lazer that will target light haired people.

The lazer does work for dark haired people but you have to keep it mainted. I am stuck out in the boonies in canada and don't have access to lazer now and I'd love to go get treatments because it's been 2 years since my last treatment and now I'm starting to look like a man again lol

Replied by Louwrence
(Rustenburg, North West South Africa)
01/19/2012

Hi Lisa, Why don't you look at hormonal balance, it could be the cause of facial hair growth in women then maybe you won't have to have laser treatments.

Mint Tea

3 User Reviews
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4 star (1) 
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Posted by Becky (Atlanta, Ga) on 08/10/2009

Mint tea for Hirsutism : This is not something I have direct experience with, but I have heard of a remedy for women with extra hair growth that is not listed here. It is spearmint tea! Yummy, right? You can probably find more info by googling it but I heard an herbalist talking about how mint tea will lower testosterone in women. Apparently it can start working within a week, drink two cups of mint tea a day. If anyone tries it please share your experience. Sounds like a really easy remedy to try. :-)

Replied by Miss G
(Columbia, Ky)
12/11/2009
★★★★★

I had a horrible problem with facial hair for a very long time. I read somewhere that spearmint tea would help reduce facial hair. I began 1-2 quarts of spearmint tea daily. I was so surprised to find that my facial hair disappeared! I am a firm believer in drinking spearmint tea. I also found out that if I skip a day or two of drinking the tea that my facial hair would come back. Spearmint tea along with tumeric has also helped reduce the amout of boils that I have!

Replied by Kay
(In The Valley, Ca)
12/12/2009

Do you take fresh spearmint and make a tea or just buy the spearmint tea in a box at the store? When you say 1 to 2 quarts a day, how many tea bags or spearmint leaves would that be? Thanks

Replied by Missg
(Columbia, Ky)
12/13/2009

I order my spearmint tea bags off the internet. I live in a rural area and it is hard to find specality items in the local stores. I take 3-4 tea bags and put them in a 10 cup coffee maker. I fill the coffee maker up with water just like I am making a pot of coffee. After the tea is brewed I take a 2 qt pitcher and pour the hot tea in it. I then add some type of sweetner to taste and fill the pitcher up the rest of the way with water. Then I leave it in the refridgerator to cool. I usually make a pot every day. I can tell a big difference in my facial hair if I skip a day or two. If I remember correctly it took a couple of weeks before I could notice a difference when I began using it. Good Luck!

Replied by Tessa
(Auckland, Nz)
09/22/2010
★☆☆☆☆

Hi - I have been drinking approx 2 cups of organic spearment tea for about six months now - I have not noticed any difference yet. I would also like to add that my facial hair also got A LOT worse after getting laser treatment. I am now going to try the Alum or go back to electrolysis.

Replied by Sandy
(Toronto, Ontario)
02/24/2011
★★★★☆

I've had excess facial hair since age 19 (I'm 22). I tried laser hair removal and let me warn all of you LASER MAKES FACIAL HAIR WORSE!! Instead of getting rid of the dark hairs, I now have a peach fuzz, PLUS the darker hair. I've heard of many other woman who have experienced the same thing.

I've been getting electrolysis for almost a year now, on a weekly basis and I'm starting to see results... But it takes a long time!

Anyways, on to mint tea. I read that it helps with excess facial hair, by blocking free testosterone in your body (or something of that nature). I can honestly say that I notice a big difference during the weeks that I drink mint tea daily vs. weeks where I forget. The growth of the dark hair is minimilised considerably.

For anyone battling annoying facial hair, I suggest you try it. You have nothing to lose, as it's delicious and nutritious! I buy plain old peppermint tea bags from the grocery store.

Hope it works for you!

Replied by Citygirl27
(Richardson, Tx)
06/01/2012

Will drinking spearmint tea slow down other hair growth everywhere else too? It seems to me that internal methods (i. e. Not topical) can't pick and choose where they act - they effect all over. I don't want to slow down my hair growth for my shoulder length blonde hair, which I am trying to grow out. Maybe Ted can help, what is it in the mint tea that makes it work for facial hair reduction? Also mint anything makes me sneeze, dont know why. I think it is the menthol naturally in it. Had facial hair and spiky chin hairs (and lifelong battle with inability to lose weight) since I was a teen - I think it might be a larger issue. TY - citygirl from Richardson, Texas.

Replied by Louwrence
(Rustenburg, North West, South Africa)
06/02/2012

Hi Citygirl27, Have your hormones checked because you may have too much testosterone that could be causing facial hair.

Replied by Catherine
(Colorado Springs, Co)
06/03/2012

Hi citygirl27, the symptoms you describe sound like polycystic ovarian syndrome. You should research it and see if some of the remedies here would work for you. You don't have to have cysts to have it. Good luck!

Replied by Lu
(Armenia)
09/12/2012

It works, I had high levels of prolactine, and no menstruation during almost a year, and thus upper lip and chin hair, even if after treatment I started to have menstruations but the hair were stil there, started drinking mint tea since last january and in march already the hair started to fall... On my face now everything is ok, good luck!!!

Replied by Citygirl27
(Richardson, Tx, Usa)
10/13/2012

I have every reason to believe I am an MSG baby I. E. It was especially heavily used in baby food and vaccines during my formative years (1971-2) and I even got epilepsy at the exact time of a vaccine (18 months). I suffer from a damaged hypothalamus, evident by all of my imbalances being exact symptoms of it, such as excessive sweating and unmovable weight. I know that all of my hormone levels are high, except leptin. If they were low, I could raise them in clever ways, but too high means it can't be compensated for. Unfortunately, it is not fixable and not operable. Even if something could be done, I have no job or insurance, so that rules out pretty much everything outside of EC.

Replied by Anon
(Anon)
06/07/2020

Lazer worked for a friend of mine. She had it done at a spa. Had to go back every few weeks for a total of 6 trips, or so. You might have used a disreputable technician.

Replied by Anon
(Anon)
06/07/2020

Old post but opiates are said to slow the central nervous system. Poppy seeds might be worth experimenting with.

Multiple Remedies

2 User Reviews
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Posted by Gean (Salina, Kansas) on 05/12/2008
 ★★★★★

re: Facial Hair. A few years I had bought a Gaia Herbs naturopathic handbook by Richard Scalzo, and tried their herbal suggestions for allergies. Within a couple of weeks or less, I realized that all the hair on my upper lip had disappeared. The stuff I took was: Compounded Turmeric/Catechu 30-40 drops 3-4x daily between meals (4-6months) Fresh Nettles Extract 30-50 drops 3-4x daily (4-6 mo) Compounded Echinacea 30-40 drops 4x a day (The health food store got me Echinacea/Goldenseal instead since they couldn't get the other one, which I shouldn't have taken long term had I known) Licorice Root Solid Exract 1/8-1/4 tsp 2x daily for 2-4weeks (you can order this from Tahoma Clinic, search online) Compounded Bitters Elixir 1/2-1 tsp. 3x daily in a small amount of warm water before meals 4-6 mo. Compounded Psyllium Husk Powder, 1 heaping tsp. in full glass of warm water 2x daily for 3-4 mo. Compounded Vitamin C Elixir 1 tsp. 2x/day Flax oil 1 Tbls. 2x/day. Always take a break from this every seventh day, every seven week, every seventh month. It's expensive and takes time and effort, but I guess it really balances hormones. I didn't do it for the full 4-6 mo.,(my blood pressure kept dangerously dropping, probably due to the long term goldenseal) but when I get money and time I'll try it again.


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