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Friday, 21 August 2026 Reading Room

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In the sweltering heat, Japanese men are taking extreme measures to stay cool, with many opting to shave not just their heads, but also their body hair. The demand for hair removal, or depilatory products, has surged in Japan as the country grapples with a severe heatwave. According to a survey conducted by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, the country's summer heat has become increasingly unbearable, with temperatures soaring to record highs in recent years. This trend is reflected in the sales data of Japanese cosmetics companies, which have reported a significant increase in the sales of depilatory products, including razors, shaving cream, and hair removal creams. In particular, the sales of body hair removal products have skyrocketed, with some companies reporting a 20-30% increase in sales compared to the same period last year. The trend is not limited to women, as more and more men are also opting for hair removal treatments to cope with the sweltering heat. Some Japanese men have taken to social media to share their hair removal experiences, with many posting photos of themselves with shaved legs, arms, and even eyebrows. The hashtag #hairfree, which translates to "hair-free", has been trending on Twitter, with many users sharing their own hair removal stories and tips. Experts attribute the surge in demand for hair removal products to the increasing awareness of the importance of personal grooming and hygiene, particularly during the hot summer months. The trend is also driven by the growing popularity of men's beauty and grooming products in Japan, with many companies launching new lines of products specifically designed for men. As the heatwave continues to grip Japan, it is likely that the demand for hair removal products will continue to soar, with more and more people seeking ways to stay cool and comfortable.

·hani.co.kr

Pentagon moves to fire publisher and editor of Stars and Stripes

The Pentagon has given separation notices to both the publisher and the editor in chief of Stars and Stripes, according to people familiar with the matter.

  • Pentagon issues separation notices to Stars and Stripes publisher and editor
  • Max Lederer, publisher for 19 years, announces retirement on September 30
  • Erik Slavin, editor-in-chief, also disagrees with Pentagon leaders

·cbsnews.com

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