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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Julia Banim

'I'm a funeral director and embalmer - there's so much we do that people don't know'

As a funeral director and embalmer, Evie Rodriguez sees things on a daily basis which many of us would find - at the very least - a little bit disquieting.

However, the Chicago-based professional doesn't appear perturbed by some of the more morbid parts of her work, and is more than happy to share secrets of the trade with her 223.9K TikTok followers.

In a 43-part series - which you may well find fascinating, or completely terrifying - Evie showcases a number of items found at funeral homes, and explains exactly what they're used for.

Those who shudder at the mere sight of a hearse may wish to stop reading at this point.

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In video number 43, Evie shows a set of dental simulators, or "mouth formers", used when the deceased is missing teeth or in cases where they'd used dentures. A previous video shows fake eyebrows, which are brought out if the deceased has lost eyebrow hair "due to disease or trauma".

Other products demonstrated by Evie included eye caps, super glue to close eyelids, and smelling salts, in case someone starts feeling faint, as well as various powders- and liquids used during the embalming process.

In one video, the funeral expert reveals the makeup she uses on the skin of the deceased, called Kalon Pigment, explaining: "Mortuary cosmetics are non-thermogenic which means they easily blend on cold skin. Regular cosmetics are thermogenic which means it relies on the heat of the skin to blend and apply properly".

Evie - who goes by the username retseleve, added: "I know someone is going to ask if this can be used on the living and actually stage actors use non-thermogenic cosmetics - it does not easily melt under stage lighting".

Although these videos certainly make for a macabre watch at times, Evie's followers find them to be fascinating, and at times even unexpectedly comforting, thanking Evie for her important work.

One person remarked: "I think these videos are cool and actually kind of makes me less scared to die."

While another said: "I love your videos, I learn so much. My mom passed and I learn a lot watching your videos, and how what you do is so important".

Do you have a strange or unusual story to share? We pay for stories. Email us at julia.banim@reachplc.com

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