For geisha and maiko, application of oshiroi varies depending on age, status and region, though it is never applied as thickly as seen in kabuki. Since the application of oshiroi can prove challenging, a younger maiko may have her oka-san ("mother" - the older or retired geisha supervising her training) or her "older sister" geisha mentor apply it for her at first. Senior geisha will begin to wear oshiroi less and less over time, and eventually will only wear it for special occasions and stage performances.[citation needed]