Abstract:
Stable sulfide-containing compositions have been developed. The stable sulfide-containing composition comprises a) a sulfide, a polysulfide or mixtures thereof, of an alkali or an alkaline earth metal, and b) a carrier, such that after maintaining the sulfide-containing composition at a temperature of about 37. degree. to about 50. degree. Celsius for about 2 weeks to one month, the sulfide content remaining in the sulfide-containing composition is about 90% or greater of the initial sulfide content. The sulfide-containing compositions can be used for relieving the pain of ingrown toenail by softening the nail, or as a depilatory for removing human hair or hair from animal hides.