Whitening Bones: Aesthetic Enhancements
Bone whitening may seem like the process to 'sanitize' bones, but in reality that's not the case in the least. Whitening bones is a purely aesthetic procedure.
At the heart of bone preparation is degreasing. It's not just about looks; degreasing ensures any potential biological issues are dealt with. By removing trapped grease and lingering tissue, bones not only look better but also stay preserved. Proper degreasing prevents decay and bad smells, making bones last longer.
Deciding to whiten bones often comes down to personal preference. While natural-colored bones have their charm, whitening can give them a whole new look. By removing stains and imperfections, whitening makes bones look polished and attractive. So, it's up to each person to choose between the natural look or the polished finish of whitened bones.
Understanding the whitening agents used is crucial. Using bleach, for example, is a terrible idea as it damages bones due to the harsh chemical makeup of it. Peroxide is a better choice. Whether it's from a grocery store or hair developer, peroxide can whiten bones effectively without causing harm. The choice between the two types of peroxide depends on personal preference and the desired outcome.
Considering the concentration of peroxide is important too. While grocery store peroxide is common (3%), higher concentrations found in hair developer (12% in 40v developer) can whiten bones faster. Regular peroxide might take longer to achieve the desired result.
Bones can be soaked in straight peroxide for a whitening bath once they're fully degreased. The timeframe depends on the whiteness desired and the strength of the peroxide (3% usually takes about a week to fully brighten up bones where as 12% takes 24-48 hours).