How to Eliminate Skunk Odor

Skunks have a natural deterrent to protect themselves from predators, and this deterrent comes in the form of a nasty-smelling oil that contains sulphur compounds. Skunk spray has an unpleasant and pungent smell that can linger for up to a month if it goes untreated. The trick to eliminating skunk smell from your pet’s fur, your hair and skin, clothes, furniture, and carpeting is to act quickly. The longer you wait to clean the affected area, the harder it will be to remove the smell.

EditIngredients

EditHomemade Skunk Odor Eliminator

• 4 cups (940 ml) hydrogen peroxide, 3 percent solution
• ¼ cup (55 g) baking soda
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) liquid dish detergent

EditSteps

EditGetting Skunk Spray Off Your Skin

1. Don’t touch anything! Skunk oil on your skin, clothes, and hair can easily transfer to other surfaces, including other people, clothes, furniture, and more. The more you touch, the more you'll have to clean, so avoid touching anything or anyone.
   
2. Make a homemade odor removal solution. In a medium bucket, mix together the hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish detergent. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients. Don’t stir too much, or you'll agitate the solution and make it bubble.
   
   • The hydrogen peroxide and baking soda will break down the sulfur in the skunk oil and help to eliminate the smell. The detergent will break down the oil itself.^[1]
3. Wash your skin and hair with the solution. Soak a sponge or loofah in the peroxide mixture and apply generous amounts to your skin. Use the sponge to lather the mixture, making sure you scrub from head to toe. Apply the solution to your hair as well, thoroughly massaging the cleaner into your hair and scalp.
   
   • Be very careful not to get the solution in your eyes or mouth, as it will burn your eyes and is not safe to eat.
   • Don’t leave the solution on your hair for too long, as it can bleach your hair!
4. Rinse yourself clean. Rinse your body first to remove the cleaner and skunk oil, letting the solution sit in your hair for a few minutes. When you're finished rinsing your body, rinse the solution from your hair.
   
   • Wash your skin and hair with the solution again if necessary, and rinse the solution off before washing with soap.
5. Bathe with soap and water. To remove any lingering odor and oil, wash your body with your favorite soap. Rinse well to remove any leftover residue and oil. Shampoo your hair, massaging the shampoo into your hair and scalp. Rinse out the shampoo and apply conditioner as usual.^[2]
   

EditTreating Pets That Have Been Sprayed

1. Get your pet outside immediately. Skunk spray is an oily substance that can easily transfer from your pet to your furniture, carpets, drapes, and entire house. To prevent this from happening, don’t let your pet inside after being sprayed, or get your pet outside as quickly as possible.^[3]
   
   • In inclement weather, keep your pet in a garage if possible, or confined to a single room in the house. A bathroom is a good choice, because that way you can bathe your pet in the shower.
2. Make a skunk odor removal solution. This homemade remedy is quite effective at eliminating skunk odor. In a medium bucket, combine the hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and liquid dish detergent. Mix the ingredients gently to combine everything, but not so vigorously that you agitate the solution.
   
   • You can use white vinegar in place of the hydrogen peroxide if necessary, but it’s not as effective at eliminating the odor.
   • Despite its popularity, tomato juice isn't very effective at removing skunk smell. Similarly, air fresheners and other products will likely only cover the smell temporarily, but won’t actually get rid of it.^[4]
   • You can also try commercial skunk odor eliminators instead, but this homemade remedy is the most effective.^[5]
3. Put on gloves to protect your hands. Skunk smell can also transfer to you. Before washing your pet, put on some old clothes and a pair of rubber or latex gloves to protect your skin.^[6]
   
4. Treat your pet with the concentrated solution. Soak a sponge in the odor eliminator solution. Use the sponge to apply the solution to your pet’s dry fur. Massage the solution into the coat to ensure it fully saturates the fur and skin. Don’t use the solution near your pet’s mouth or eyes.^[7]
   
   • Don’t rinse your pet before applying the solution, as that will dilute the solution and make it less effective.
   • The hydrogen peroxide may bleach your pet’s fur, but it is safe to use and won’t damage their skin.^[8]
5. Let the solution stand for five minutes. Leave the solution to soak into your pet’s fur and skin for at least five minutes. This will give the peroxide mixture time to work its magic and neutralize the sulphur compounds in the skunk spray.^[9]
   
6. Rinse your pet’s fur thoroughly. Using a garden hose or bucket, rinse your pet to remove the solution and wash away the skunk oil. Be careful around the eye and face area, as you don’t want the solution to go into your pet’s eyes or mouth.^[10]
   
   • If you do happen to get solution in your pet’s face or eyes, rinse the area thoroughly with water.
7. Repeat if necessary. If your pet still smells after the first application, apply a second coat of odor eliminator solution and let it sit for another five minutes. Rinse thoroughly to remove any excess solution.
   
   • When your pet is stink-free and you’ve cleaned anything else that smells, discard the homemade odor eliminator solution. The mixture is volatile and shouldn’t be stored for later use.^[11]
   • The ingredients in the mixture can all safely be poured down the drain or flushed down the toilet.^[12]

EditCleaning Clothes and Washable Fabrics

1. Soak your clothes in a diluted peroxide solution. Fill a large bucket with one part hydrogen peroxide and six parts water. Remove your clothes, being careful not to spread the oil onto your skin or eyes. Place the clothes in the peroxide solution and let them soak for at least an hour.^[13]
   
   • For delicate clothes, soak them in a mixture of one part vinegar and four parts water.
2. Wash your clothes in the washing machine. After soaking for an hour, remove your clothes from the peroxide solution and wring them out in the sink. Transfer the clothes to the washing machine. Fill the detergent compartment as usual with your favorite detergent, and add ½ cup (110 g) of baking soda to the drum with the clothes. Wash the clothes on your regular cycle.^[14]
   
3. Hang the clothes to dry outside on a line. When the cycle has finished and your clothes are clean, remove them from the washing machine. Take the clothes outside and hang them to dry in the sun. The sun’s rays will not only dry the clothes, but will also help to eliminate any leftover skunk odors.^[15]
   
   • In winter or when it’s not possible to dry your clothes outside, dry the clothes in a dryer. Don’t put the clothes in the dryer until you're sure the smell is gone, otherwise you may set the smell and make it even harder to remove.^[16]

EditRemoving Skunk Smell from the House

1. Open windows and turn on fans and vents. One of the most effective steps you can take to eliminate skunk smell inside is ventilating the house and getting fresh air circulating.^[17] Open all the windows in the house, turn on the kitchen and bathroom vents, turn on ceiling fans, and use standing or oscillating fans to move the air.
   
   • If you have multiple fans, set up one inside in front of a window to blow in fresh air from outside, and set up another at a different window to blow stinky air from the house out.
2. Use diluted bleach to clean hard surfaces inside and out. In a large bucket, mix together a cleaning solution of one part bleach and nine parts water.^[18] Put on gloves, dip a sponge in the solution, and wring out the excess. You can use the solution on hard surfaces inside your home, including linoleum floors, stone counters, concrete, and wood floors. Use the sponge to scrub patio areas, fences, decks, and exterior walls.^[19]
   
   • Use only minimal amounts of liquid on wood floors, and rinse the floors with plain water after applying the bleach solution.
   • Only use this mixture on color-fast surfaces. Don’t use this solution to clean furniture, fabrics, people, or pets.
3. Spray the garden and lawn with a vinegar and dish soap solution. In a large bucket, combine a gallon (3.8 L) of vinegar and 1 cup (235 ml) of liquid dish soap. Stir the mixture to combine the liquids, and transfer the solution to a spray bottle. Apply generous amounts of the solution to affected areas of the grass, shrubs, bushes, trees, and plants.^[20]
   
4. Steam clean carpets, drapes, and furniture. Steam cleaning is the best way to clean carpeting, drapery, and furniture that’s been affected by skunk oil.^[21] The detergent will help to break up the oil and eliminate the smell, and the steam will rinse the oil from the fabric.
   
   • Steam cleaners can often be rented from grocery or hardware stores if you don’t have one of your own.
5. Place bowls of vinegar around the house to absorb skunk odors. Vinegar is great at absorbing odors, so you can use it to help remove any lingering skunk smell that still in the house. Fill shallow bowls with vinegar and place the bowls near affected areas, such as carpeting and furniture. Leave the bowls out for one to two days, and discard the vinegar when the smell is gone.^[22]
   

EditTips

• Prevent skunk encounters by keeping your pets on a leash during walks, keeping your yard clear of attractants like pet and bird food, and by securing garbage can lids properly.

EditWarnings

• After a skunk encounter involving a pet, check the animal for bites and scratches, and get to the veterinarian right away if you find any.

EditRelated wikiHows

• Get Rid of Skunks
• Get Rid of the Skunk Smell on Pets
• Care for a Skunk Sprayed Dog
• Get a Skunk to Leave

EditSources and Citations

Cite error: <ref> tags exist, but no <references/> tag was found

How to Do a Wells Fargo Wire Transfer

Wiring money is a fast and easy way to pay someone. As a Wells Fargo customer, you can send money online or in person, and you can also receive wire transfers. You’ll need to gather required information so that the wire can go through smoothly. Also confirm what fees you will pay, because you can’t send or receive money for free.

EditSteps

EditSending Money Online

1. Check if this is an option for you. You can wire money online if you have been a Wells Fargo Online customer for at least 180 days. You also need a valid Wells Fargo savings, checking, or Command Asset Program account.^[1]
   
   • If you haven’t been a Wells Fargo Online customer for enough time, you should register. This will allow you to send wires online in the future.
2. Add recipients. Once you log in, you should select “Transfer and Pay” and then choose “Wire Money.”^[2] You should add recipient details, such as the following:
   
   • The recipient’s name and address.
   • The name, address, and country of the recipient’s bank.
   • The bank’s routing number.
   • The bank’s Swift Code/BIC. This is an 8 or 11-digit code.
3. Send money. You should include the amount you want to send and the recipient’s account number. If you are sending money internationally, you will need the International Bank Account Number (IBAN).
   
   • If you want the money to arrive on the same day, you should send before 4:30 Central Time (CT). This is the deadline for sending outgoing domestic and international wire transfers. If you live in the Eastern Time zone, then 5:30 is the deadline. Talk to a banking representative if you have questions.
4. Pay fees. Online wire fees start at $30. Review your consumer account fee and information schedule or call 1-800-869-3557 for more information.^[3]
   

EditWiring Money in Person

1. Gather information from the recipient. You need the following information to make sure that your wire goes through:^[4]
   
   • The recipient’s name and address.
   • The recipient bank name, address, and country.
   • Swift Code/BIC of the recipient’s bank. The recipient should give you this information.
   • The FedWire ABA Routing Number (domestic wires). This is a nine-digit number.
   • International Routing Code (international wires).
   • The recipient’s bank account number or International Bank Account Number (IBAN).
2. Meet the deadline. If you want your wire to go through on the same day, then you must send it before the deadline. If you miss the deadline, the wire goes through on the next business day. Consider the following deadlines:^[5]
   
   • 12:00 pm (noon) Central Time. Same-day wires to Mexico in Pesos and wires to Canada in Canadian dollars. If you are in the Eastern Time zone, add one hour (1:00 pm). Subtract one hour in the Mountain Time zone (11:00 am) and two hours in the Pacific Time zone (10:00 am).
   • 3:00 pm CT. Tax payments and outgoing international wire transfers from a consumer account.
   • 4:30 pm CT. Outgoing domestic and international wire transfers and outgoing drawdowns.
   • 7:00 pm CT. Same-day wire transfers between two Wells Fargo accounts.
3. Stop into your bank. Visit any Wells Fargo location. Find the nearest at http://ift.tt/11EYKY8. Unfortunately, you must stop by in person because Wells Fargo cannot accept wire instructions by email or through fax.^[6]
   
   • If you want to wire money using the phone in the future, you should complete a Wire Agreement at the branch. You will also order your personal identification number (PIN), which will take 10-14 business days to arrive.
4. Complete a form. Tell the bank representative that you want to wire money to someone. There should be a form for you to fill out. Sign in front of the bank representative. Also ask about fees before going through with the wire transfer.
   

EditReceiving a Wire Transfer

1. Provide the sender with your account information. You want the wire to go through smoothly, so make sure the person sending you money has the necessary information. Send them the following:^[7]
   
   • Wire Routing Transfer Number: 121000248.
   • Bank Name: Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.
   • Location: 420 Montgomery, San Francisco, California (use this regardless of where your account is located).
   • Swift Code: WFBIUS6S (for international transfers).
   • Title of your account: as it appears on your statement.
   • Your full account number.
2. Receive your money. To receive money on the same day, incoming wires must be received by 5:30 pm Central Time. If the wire comes in later, you won’t receive the money until the next business day.^[8]
   
   • The deadline is 6:30 pm in the Eastern Time zone, 4:30 pm in the Mountain Time zone, and 3:30 pm in the Pacific Time zone.
3. Pay the fee. You need to pay a $15 fee to receive a wire transfer. Other fees may also apply. Call 1-800-869-3557 for more information about fees or talk to a banking representative.^[9]
   

EditTips

• Your recipient cannot be a bank, unless you are sending payment to Wells Fargo for a loan, such as a mortgage payment.^[10]

EditSources and Citations

Cite error: <ref> tags exist, but no <references/> tag was found

How to Make a Supergroup on Telegram on PC or Mac

Steps

Part 1

Creating a Group

1. 1

   Open Telegram on your computer. If you’re using Windows, you’ll find it in the Windows menu. If you’re using a Mac, it’s in the Applications folder.

2. 2

   Click ☰. It’s at the top-left corner of the window.

3. 3

   Click New Group.

4. 4

   Type a name for your group and click NEXT. This is the name that group members will see.

5. 5

   Select group members.

   Clicking a contact’s name on the “Add Members” screen will add them to the list.

   • Don’t worry about adding all of your members now. You can always come back to add them later.

6. 6

   Click CREATE. The group is now active and ready to be upgraded to a Supergroup.

Part 2

Upgrading to a Supergroup

1. 1

   Open Telegram on your computer. If you’re using Windows, you’ll find it in the Windows menu. If you’re using a Mac, it’s in the Applications folder.

2. 2

   Click the name of the group you want to upgrade. This opens the group in the larger panel.

3. 3

   Click the group’s name in the title bar. It’s above the right panel. This opens the group’s options menu.

4. 4

   Scroll down and click Upgrade to supergroup. It’s under the “Actions” header. A confirmation message will appear.

5. 5

   Click CONVERT. Your group is now upgraded to Supergroup status.

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How to Make a Potato Gun

Edit Article

Four Parts:Getting the Pipes ReadyGluing the LauncherAdding a Spark GeneratorFiring the LauncherCommunity Q&A

You may love to eat potatoes, but firing them out of a cannon can be even more fun. A potato guns, also called a spudzooka, potato cannon, and spud gun, make for an entertaining project that also demonstrates a few laws of physics along the way. Part of the thrill of constructing a potato gun comes from experimenting with the basic design to get the best performance, all while learning valuable engineering lessons. Get creative with yours!

Steps

Part 1

Getting the Pipes Ready

1. 1

   Get all your parts ready for assembly.

   All the parts necessary for this project can be bought at your local hardware store if you don’t already have them at home. Some hardware stores may even cut the PVC pipe you’ll need for this project to length as a free service or for a minor fee.

   ^[1]

   • You'll need a 4-in (10.1-cm) wide PVC pipe that's 2 feet (61 cm) long and a 2-in (5-cm) wide PVC pipe that is 5 feet (1.5 m) long.
   • Only use Schedule 40 PVC pipe. "Schedule" refers to the thickness of the pipe's walls. Pipe thinner than Sch 40 will be unsafe and could burst under high pressure.

2. 2

   Measure and mark your PVC pieces, if necessary.

   If your PVC pipes weren’t cut for you, you’ll need to do it yourself. Use a felt tipped marker to mark the PVC at the following lengths so they’re ready to be cut:

   • 4-in (10.1-cm) wide PVC marked at 2 feet (61 cm)
   • 2-in (5-cm) wide PVC marked at 5 feet (1.5 m)^[2]

3. 3

   Cut the pipes along the mark using a hacksaw. It may help to clamp the pipes down to a work bench or have someone hold the pipe on a flat surface as you saw. The cuts don’t need to be perfect. Once you’re finished, remove plastic burrs by rubbing the cut edges with a medium grit sandpaper.

4. 4

   Clean the PVC pipes with a rag.

   Grit or plastic shavings from cutting the PVC can negatively impact the seal of parts when fitted together. Take a clean rage and wipe all parts of the PVC clean. If there are a lot of shavings, use a vacuum cleaner.

   ^[3]

Part 2

Gluing the Launcher

1. 1

   Assemble one end of the 4-in wide PVC segment.

   Screw a 4-in wide PVC plug into place on the threaded end of the female adapter. On one end of the 4-in segment, liberally apply PVC cement around the outer lip. Repeat this process to the inner lip of the PVC female adapter. Fit the adapter onto the end of the segment.

   • When you glue the PVC pieces together, hold them together firmly for at least 60 seconds so the glue bonds.
   • Twist each glue joint a quarter-turn as you are pushing it together. This will encourage a better seal.
   • Whenever PVC pieces are glued together, be sure to use a clean towel to wipe away excess glue.
   • The 4-in wide PVC segment will eventually become the combustion chamber for the launcher.^[4]

2. 2

   Attach the coupler to the 4-in wide PVC segment at the opposite end.

   Apply PVC cement around the outer lip of the segment and the inner lip of the PVC coupler. Slide the coupler into place on the end of segment with nothing attached.

   ^[5]

3. 3

   Glue the reducer in the coupler.

   Apply more PVC cement to the inner lip of the coupler and below the outward flanging collar of the 4- to 2-in reducer. Nest the reducer in the coupler until the collar of the reducer meets the end of the coupler.

   ^[6]

4. 4

   Add the barrel of the launcher.

   The barrel of the launcher will be made up of the 2-in wide PVC segment. Spread the PVC cement on the inner lip of the reducer and the outer lip of one end of the 2-in wide PVC segment. Slide the barrel into the reducer until it is about even with the base of the coupler.

   ^[7]

5. 5

   Wait 24 hours for the PVC cement to harden and cure.

   If you use your potato launcher before the PVC cement has enough time to harden, the launcher may explode. Explosive force in the combustion chamber puts stress on the PVC when you shoot an item.

   ^[8]

Part 3

Adding a Spark Generator

1. 1

   Drill holes in the combustion chamber for your spark generator.

   Most spark generators simply emit a spark at one end when a button is pressed. Drill a hole in the combustion chamber just large enough to fit the sparking components of your generator.

   ^[9]

   • Some generators may have two prongs across which a spark jumps, or a single double-pronged extension.
   • Many generators require spark-emitting prongs to be within ²⁄₅ inch (1.0 cm) of each other.

2. 2

   Insert the spark generator and attach it with electrical tape.

   Press the spark emitting parts of the generator into the holes you’ve drilled. Attach the button/trigger for the generator to the combustion chamber with electrical tape, then hook up the leads from the spark generator to the trigger.

   • Connect positive leads (+) to positive terminals on the generator and negative leads ( - ) to the negative terminals.
   • Once the leads and terminals are attached, prevent accidental shocks by covering any bare wiring or components with electrical tape.
   • Check your spark generator by unscrewing the PVC plug from the female adapter. While looking inside the combustion chamber, press the generator trigger several times. If you see a spark, it works.^[10]

3. 3

   Create a guard for the spark generator.

   The electrical components of the spark generator can be easily damaged. Make a guard for the generator by cutting a scrap piece of PVC down the middle with a hack saw. Sand away PVC burrs with medium grit sandpaper, then attach the guard over the spark generator with PVC cement or tape.

   • Your guard can be cut short so it only protects the sparking components or longer to cover the leads up to the trigger.^[11]

Part 4

Firing the Launcher

1. 1

   Insert a spud and open the end PVC plug.

   Press a spud into the barrel end of the launcher so it fits snugly. Use a stick to push the potato into the base of the barrel. After that, turn over the launcher and unscrew the end PVC plug from the female adaptor.

   ^[12]

   • Old fashioned firearms used "wadding," or cloth wrapped around projectiles, to create a better barrel seal and more power. This can also be done with potato guns.
   • A screw inserted into the barrel where it connects to the combustion chamber will prevent the ammunition from being rammed too far and falling into the chamber.

2. 2

   Spray propellant into the combustion chamber and reseal the plug.

   Almost all hairspray will work as a propellant for your launcher. Spray the hairspray into the chamber for about seven seconds and your launcher is primed and ready to go. Reseal the plug quickly and get ready to take aim.

   ^[13]

   • Too much propellant is as bad as not enough. If there’s not enough oxygen, ignition will not occur. Trial and error will teach the optimum amount of propellant to use in your individual design.

3. 3

   Aim away from people and click the trigger.

   It may take a few clicks of the trigger before the spark ignites, but when it does the hairspray will explode. This will force the potato out the barrel of the launcher. Now it’s time for target practice.

   ^[14]

   • Always operate your potato launcher with caution. Improper or reckless usage could cause harm or property damage.

Community Q&A

Add New Question

• What do I use to clean my potato gun after firing it?

  wikiHow Contributor

  Clean your potato gun using soap and water.

• Where do I get the igniter?

  wikiHow Contributor

  Home depot or Wal Mart. They are very cheap and work well.

• After testing my gun, I have deduced there is a lack of oxygen. How do I fix this?

  wikiHow Contributor

  Just before the firing and loading of each round, take the back off, and wave it back and forth to force air into it, then load immediately after.

• Where are the parts listed and where can I get them?

  wikiHow Contributor

  Any hardware should have most of the parts. The parts are listed in step 3.

• Why is my potato gun not igniting?

  wikiHow Contributor

  It's not uncommon for guns to become ineffective after prolonged use. If you haven't used it yet, then check your wires, what you are touching and how long it takes you to pull the trigger. If none of that works, just pull it apart and redo it, following instructions word by word.

• Can a potato gun shoot a tennis ball?

  wikiHow Contributor

  If it fits snugly in the barrel, yes it will. If it's too small, use wadding.

• If I used a chemical igniter, could I make a gas depot and, therefore, not have to reload hairspray since no leftovers would block the ignition?

• Can I get the parts at radio shack?

  wikiHow Contributor

  Most likely not. Find your local hardware store, and it should have most or all of the parts.

Ask a Question

Tips

• The world of PVC can be confusing and unorganized, so don’t be afraid to ask store staff for help.
• The longer the barrel, the longer the force of the combustion will accelerate the projectile. Too short of a barrel will rob the gun of power. However, if the barrel is too long, the expanding gasses begin to lose pressure and friction of the projectile in the barrel begins to slow it down. Experiment to find the optimum length for your own configuration.
• If your local hardware store does not have the exact fittings listed, don't worry. You will probably be able to find a way to use similar parts (i.e. reducers, couplers, etc.) that are slightly larger or smaller to accomplish what the parts listed do.
• If you have never worked with PVC before, buy some scrap PVC and a few cheap couplers so you can practice gluing before you build your launcher.
• Try new ammunition! Potatoes are plentiful, but similar sized fruit and vegetables may work just as well.
• The volume of the combustion chamber is proportional to power of the shot, but a long chamber produces an inefficient compression wave, so keep the combustion chamber short and fat.
• Follow the directions on the glue, and glue liberally on both the pipe and the socket. Do not use glue or plumber's dope on threads.
• If something needs to be sealed shut, use duct tape. It starts out as tape, but after you use the cannon the adhesive turns into a very sticky glue that keeps stuff closed.
• The initial ignition in the combustion chamber should be close to the center of the chamber cavity to make an efficient explosion.
• There are plenty of instructions for different models online. Do a keyword search for "Potato Cannon instructions."

Warnings

• It’s very important that you let the glue dry before firing your launcher. Most accidents with these guns happen because an anxious builder does not let the glue dry. Let it dry a full 24 hours before shooting.
• Make sure that you aren't ever looking down the barrel of the cannon or pointing it at someone when it's loaded.

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How to Extend Your Eyebrows

Steps

Method 1

Using Makeup to Extend Your Brows

1. 1

   Wash and moisturize your face. Wash your face

   with warm (not hot) water and a gentle cleanser that is suitable for your skin type. Rinse thoroughly, and pat dry with a clean towel. Apply a pea-sized amount of moisturizer with a gentle patting motion, and allow about two minutes for it to completely soak in.

   ^[1]

2. 2

   Apply any primer, foundation, or concealer before starting your brows.

   Use a

   primer

   before anything else to help your makeup stick. Apply

   foundation

   or concealer with your fingers, and blend well using your fingertips or a makeup sponge.

   • If you don’t wear any other base makeup, you can skip this step.

3. 3

   Sweep translucent setting powder over your brow bone with a clean brush.

   This will help any other products stick to your skin, as well as absorb any excess oil that could cause your makeup to run.

   ^[2]

4. 4

   Hold a pen next to your nose diagonally as you look straight ahead into a mirror.

   Angle it so that one end of the pen is next to your nostril while the other end passes right next to the outside corner of your eye. The new tail of your brow will stop where your brow bone intersects the line measured by the pen.

   • If you need to extend the inside edge of your eyebrow, hold up the pen in line with the inside corner of your eye. The inside of your brow will be in line with your natural brow, directly up from the side of your nose.
   • Remember that you can always use a stencil that is made for your face shape if you're having trouble with the angle of the tail.

5. 5

   Place a dot where the tip of the tail will be using a sharp eyebrow pencil.

   The dot should be on your brow bone, just where you measured the line with the pen. Make it faint; it is just a guide for where the tail will stop. Make sure the pencil matches the color of your eyebrow, and not the color of the hair on your head.

   • If your face is square, aim the dot towards the center of your ear to help add more shape to your eye area.
   • If your face is round, aim the dot closer to the top of your ear.

6. 6

   Outline the remainder of the new tail with a brow pencil. Connect the natural hairs of the arch of your brow to the dot you just drew. Use a very light touch and short, feathery strokes to make it look natural.

7. 7

   Fill in the outline using a combination of gel, powder, and pencil products.

   Use a thin, angled brush to apply a small amount of brow pomade in the outlined area if your brows are particularly thick or dark. If you’re using a pencil, make sure it’s sharp and that you’re using light, feathered strokes. Continue to fill it in until the color and saturation matches the rest of your eyebrow.

   • If you have dark hair, use products with both black and brown tones since black alone can look harsh, while brown alone can be too auburn.^[3]
   • If you have blonde hair, use a combination of gray and light brown products instead of dark brown and black. Use your root color as a guide.^[4]

8. 8

   Use a spoolie brush to soften out the color and help blend it together.

   Use gentle, upward strokes, and don’t press too hard or all of the product you just applied will rub off.

   ^[5]

9. 9

   Use a makeup swab to fix any mistakes. Put on a little more concealer or foundation around the new section of your brow if any of your base makeup rubbed off while fixing the brow coloring.

10. 10

    Apply a light layer of setting spray to help it stick.

    If you don’t have setting spray, another light layer of translucent powder will do the same thing.

    ^[6]

Method 2

Encouraging Natural Growth

1. 1

   Stop plucking or waxing.

   Yes, your brows might look messy or patchy for a while. It can be hard to stop if you’ve been plucking for a long time, but you can only grow your hair back if you allow it to do its own thing.

   • If you’re embarrassed about the state of your brows, you can let your bangs grow or wear head accessories like hats or scarves to hide your eyebrows while they grow back. Or just laugh it off! They’ll grow back, so grin and bear it since they probably look great already.

2. 2

   Massage your brows once a day for a couple of minutes.

   Improved blood flow and circulation can help your hair follicles get the oxygen and nutrients they need to regrow.

   ^[7]

   Make sure your hands are clean, and use small, circular motions with your fingertip. Include the area you’re trying to regrow and a little bit of the surrounding area on your forehead and above your eyes.

3. 3

   Apply a small amount of castor oil to your brow area at night.

   Wash it off in the morning when you wake up. This is a classic natural hair growth aid that is available in many stores, but it has yet to be proven scientifically, so it may not work for everyone. You should see more hair growth in 3 to 4 weeks of nightly use if it’s working.

   ^[8]

   • If you can’t find castor oil, extra virgin olive oil or peppermint oil can have a similar effect.^[9]

4. 4

   Buy a hair regrowth serum with peptides.

   You can find serums at beauty stores like Ulta and Sephora, or online on Amazon.com or Beautylish.com. Select a serum by talking to the employee in the store or reading reviews online.

   ^[10]

   • Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application, and talk to a dermatologist if you’re not sure about a serum before using it.

Tips

• While it's tempting to want to do one eyebrow completely before starting the other, do each step on each brow before continuing so that they end up even.
• You can use matte eyeshadow in place of powders and pencils.
• For a more permanent solution, consider getting your eyebrows microbladed. Microblading is a procedure where a licensed esthetician “tattoos” hair-like lines deep into the skin using a fine blade. It can be rather expensive and is not completely permanent, so you will have to go in for touch-ups every few months.^[11]

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How to Clean Under Acrylic Nails

Acrylic nails look beautiful, but dirt, food, and bacteria can hide beneath the nail. Cleaning underneath your acrylic nails requires a gentle touch so that the acrylic nail doesn’t separate from the natural nail. Be aware, however, that most discoloration on acrylic nails is caused by fungus, not dirt. This means that you will have to remove the nail and treat your finger before you can apply a new one. Prevention is easier than treatment, however. Practice daily hygiene habits to reduce your risk of fungus or other infections.

EditSteps

EditRemoving Dirt from Nails

1. Wash your hands with antibacterial soap and warm water. Do this whenever you go to the bathroom, eat or cook, touch animals, or handle dirty objects. Don't wash your hands unless they need it, however. Too much washing can weaken the nail glue.^[1]
   
2. Dry your nails thoroughly with a towel whenever they get wet. Water can cause fungus and bacteria to build up under the nail. It can also cause the acrylic nail to separate from the natural nail, which can encourage infections.^[2]
   
3. Scrub under the nail using a soft-bristled nail brush. Dip the nail brush into a cup of warm, soapy water. Tap out any excess water. Move the brush back and forth under the nail to remove dirt. Be gentle, however, so that you do not weaken the glue.^[3]
   
   • Do not press hard against the underside of the nail. Instead, just sweep the brush back and forth.
   • A soft toothbrush may also work.
4. Scrape out dirt with a cuticle pusher. Rub the dirt off onto a paper towel before cleaning the next nail. Only clean areas that you can reach. Try to avoid applying pressure to the nail, as this can cause the nail to separate.
   
   • Do not stick the cuticle pusher down between the nail and skin.
5. Soak your nail in rubbing alcohol before replacing a fallen nail. This will prevent fungus or bacteria from getting under your nail. Pour some rubbing alcohol into a cup, and soak your fingernail for 15 seconds. Dry your natural nail before gluing the acrylic nail back on.^[4]
   
   • You should do this even if the nail is still partially attached.
   • Dark streaks, yellow discoloration, or a crumbly crust on the natural nail are all signs of a fungal infection. Throw out the acrylic nail and treat the fungus.

EditEliminating Fungus on Nails

1. Remove the nail from your finger. Fungal treatments do not work if the acrylic nail is still attached. You will have to treat the fungus before you can apply new nails. Toss the infected nail as soon as you remove it.^[5]
   
   • To remove acrylic nails, soak your fingers in a cup of warm water for up to ten minutes. This will soften the acrylic nails so that you can easily peel them off.
   • Alternatively, you can soak cotton balls in acetone. Wrap them against your fingernails using aluminum foil, and leave them for twenty minutes. This should remove the acrylic nail.^[6]
2. Remove any remaining glue with a damp sponge. The leftover glue may contain the fungus. Soak the sponge in warm water, and gently scrub around the nail to remove any remaining glue. Polish the top of the nail with a nail brush if the glue is stubborn.^[7]
   
3. Soak your fingers in vinegar. You can use white vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Keep the affected fingers in the vinegar for at least thirty minutes a day for up to a week.^[8]
   
   • Do not dunk in your entire hand, as this might cause your skin to dry out.
4. Try a mouthwash soak. Instead of vinegar, you can soak your fingers in mouthwash for up to thirty minutes a day. The alcohol should help kill the fungus. If your fingers start stinging, however, remove them from the mouthwash.^[9]
   
5. Apply a mixture of tea tree oil and olive oil to the nails. Mix equal parts of each oil, and apply to each affected nail with a cotton swab. Do this twice a day until the infection is gone.^[10]
   
6. Visit a doctor. If natural treatments do not clear up the fungus after a week, see your doctor. You may need a prescription cream or pill to kill the fungus. You should also visit your doctor if you notice any:^[11]
   
   • Redness around the nail
   • Swelling
   • Pain
   • Itching under or around the nail
   • Broken skin around the nail
   • Broken natural nails

EditKeeping Nails Clean

1. Wear gloves while you clean or bathe. This will prevent dirt from getting under your nails. It can also keep your hands dry so that fungus does not grow beneath the nail. Latex or rubber gloves work best.^[12]
   
2. Visit the nail salon to touch up the nails every two to three weeks. Gaps that appear between the acrylic and natural nail can cause infections. Your salon can prevent this by filling in the gaps or reattaching loose nails.^[13]
   
3. Replace nails after three months. Acrylic nails can attract more dirt and grime the longer that you wear them. To prevent fungal infections and dirty nails, get rid of the nails after three months.^[14]
   
   • Let your natural nails rest for a month before applying new acrylic nails to them. This will keep them clean and prevent damage that can cause infections.
4. Make sure your nail salon sterilizes their equipment after every use. Sterilization kills any germs, bacteria, or fungus that may be on the tools. Ask your nail technician if you can see how they sterilize their tools before you let them handle your nails.^[15]
   
   • Make sure they remove a brand new nail file straight from the packaging. Nail files cannot be sanitized like other tools can be.
   • Do not go to any salon that does not sterilize their tools.

EditSources and Citations

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How to Set Spider Traps

Spiders: you either love them or hate them. In your home, you may need to set traps to catch and kill spiders. Outside, you may want to catch spiders to keep and study. Sticky traps are the main way of setting traps for spiders in your home. They are easy to set up, and you can even make your own. If you are more interested in trapping live spiders outside, then you should look into creating pitfall traps, which catch spiders by having them fall into a small pit.

EditSteps

EditUsing Sticky Traps

1. Create your own sticky trap to be frugal. A sticky trap is basically a flat object with something sticky on top of it. For instance, you can use a flat piece of cardboard with two-sided tape on top of it. You can also make a triangle tube with two-sided tape on the inside.^[1]
   
   • Another option is using an insect coating specifically designed to trap insects, which is sold at garden stores.
2. Buy sticky traps for convenience. If you don't want to take the time to create your own, you can find sticky traps to buy at hardware stores, grocery stores, and big box stores. The main difference is the convenience.
   
3. Place them near water. Spiders need water just like any other animal or insect. Therefore, they must visit a water source in your house or business at some point. Try setting them in out-of-the-way places in your bathroom, such as behind the toilet, as spiders may hole up back there when people are in the room.^[2]
   
   • Try using a bottle cap to hold water. Since spiders are attracted to water, setting traps with water can be effective. Simply fill a small bottle cap with water, and place your trap around it. When a spider goes towards the water, it will need to go through your trap.^[3]
4. Stick them in other hiding places. Spiders like dark spaces where they can hide. For instance, you can try sticking a glue trap under a utility sink. You might also stick one near the water heater, since it's usually kept in a dark closet. You can also try cabinets and pantries.^[4]
   
5. Place the traps along baseboards. Another good place to hide a trap is along the baseboards of your house, right up next to the wall. Spiders and insects like to walk along these edges, so you're more likely to catch spiders when you place traps there.^[5]
   
6. Try pesticide to kill the spider later. Once you've set your trap, try adding some pesticide around the area. You can use a dust, for instance, so the spider picks up some of it as it runs towards the water. The spider may somehow escape the sticky part, but it will still carry some pesticide with it, which will likely kill it later.^[6]
   
7. Check and dispose of your traps. Of course, you'll need to check your traps from time to time. Generally, you just pick your old traps up once they have several spiders on them and put down new ones. Be careful around any live spiders, as you don't want to be injected with venom. Use rubber gloves if possible.
   

EditCatching Spiders with Outdoor Traps

1. Set a dry pitfall trap. A pitfall trap is a jar or other container with a smooth interior surface that is set into the ground. The spider walks over it and falls in, and then it can't get out. To set one, dig a hole large enough for a jar or container, and place the jar or container in the ground. The top should be flush with the ground.^[7]
   
   • Catching spiders outside is a great way to study the spiders in your area.
2. Add a cover. You also need a cover somewhere above it to help keep birds and other predators out of it. The lid should be just far enough up to let spiders into the trap. It can be anything that provides cover and is waterproof.^[8]
   
3. Try a wet pitfall trap. This trap is the same as a dry one, except you use a liquid in the trap that will kill the spider. The liquid should also preserve the spider for you to study. For instance, alcohol (rubbing or any high proof alcohol) or 10% formaldehyde are common solutions.^[9]
   
   • You can purchase formaldehyde online or from laboratory supply stores.
4. Place the trap in areas where you know spiders roam. Pitfall traps are going to catch more than just spiders, so you need to place them in an area where you know spiders frequent. You should be able to see signs of spiders, such as webs, so you know they are in the area.^[10]
   
   • If you catch other bugs, you can study them or let them go.
5. Return to the traps. Once you've set the traps, you'll need to check on them again later to see what you've caught. Try checking after a day. If you don't know the species of spider you've caught, make sure to look it up before you try moving it. You don't want to get bitten by a venomous spider.^[11]
   
   • Some common venomous spiders include brown recluses, black widow spiders, Brazilian wandering spiders, and mouse spiders.
   • If you do get bitten, make sure you get the spider bite treated.
6. Transfer the spider. Once you've found a spider, you'll likely need to transfer it to another container. Carefully pull the trap out of the ground, using the lid to keep the spider in place. Cover the top of the container with another container, and turn it over to dump the spider into the new container.
   
   • From there, you can study the spider alive or even add it to a preserved insect collection.

EditWarnings

• If you have a severe spider infestation in your home, particularly if you have poisonous spiders, such as the black widow or brown recluse, you might want to consider calling a professional exterminator.

EditSources and Citations

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