A single cotton thread is all that is needed to remove fine facial hair, making the skin smoother and more delicate. Now this ancient cosmetic practice is undergoing a revival in Nanning, capital of the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region. It has gained popularity among women here due to its unusual effect.

On Duwuyuan Road, Aunt Li uses this ancient practice on a young lady's face. First, she applies a special white powder to the skin, and then folds a long cotton thread into three strands. She places one end of the thread between her teeth and grasps the other in her right hand. Li makes a continuous pinching-separating motion with her right thumb and forefinger. With the pull of teeth and fingers, the strands move quickly over the lady's face like a razor. In less than a half an hour, the woman's face is completely free of hair. She pays Aunt Li four yuan and leaves, a satisfied customer.
   
Called "wan lian" in the past, the technique was employed, according to local Guangxi customs, before a woman's wedding. The treatment not only improves the bride's facial features, but also portends a happy marriage.

(Chinanews.cn March 25, 2005)