Facial tissue refers to a class of soft, absorbent, disposable paper that is suitable for use on the face. The term is commonly used to refer to the type of facial tissue, usually sold in boxes, that is designed to facilitate the expulsion of nasal mucus from the nose although it may refer to other types of facial tissues including napkins and wipes. In most parts of the world, handkerchiefs have fallen out of use, except for fashion, and their function has been replaced entirely by facial tissue. Facial tissue is most often referred to as a "tissue" or by the generic trademark "Kleenex" which popularized the invention and its use. However, the term 'Kleenex' is not widely heard outside of America, but heard more in and around Europe. The term "paper handkerchief" is also used.
Sometimes toilet paper is used as a substitute, as it is quite similar. However, because toilet paper is designed to deteriorate in water, it is much less sturdy, increasing the potential of mucus reaching the hands. Furthermore, some brands of toilet paper are relatively rough and may irritate the nose, although not as rough as paper towels.
A handkerchief (also called handkercher or hanky) is a square of fabric, usually carried in the pocket, for personal hygiene purposes such as wiping one's hands or blowing one's nose, but also used as a decorative accessory in a suit pocket. Richard II of England is said to have invented the hand- kerchief, as "little pieces [of cloth] for the lord King to wipe and clean his nose," appear in his Household Rolls or accounts, which is the first documented use of them. Historically, white handkerchiefs have been used in place of a white flag to indicate surrender or a flag of truce. Use of handkerchief instead of facial tissue paper is often seen as old-fashioned and, especially in North America, unhygienic. On the other hand, some see it as a more environment- conscious choice. The Kleenex company hadn't initially imagined that people would want a disposable handkerchief, so they initially marketed their product exclusively as a make-up removal tool. It was only later after they discovered that people were blowing their noses into the tissue that they began marketing it for this purpose.
