From the dawn of civilization, humanity has been fascinated by the pursuit of beauty. Today, the modern cosmetics industry is a multi-billion dollar behemoth, offering endless products to enhance, conceal, and transform. But before the age of clinical trials and safety regulations, the quest for beauty was a far more dangerous game. Throughout history, people have smeared, swallowed, and slathered themselves with some of the most toxic substances imaginable, all in the name of achieving the perfect look.
This journey into the past reveals a world where beauty standards were demanding and … deadly. From the aristocrats of Rome to the socialites of the Renaissance, men and women alike risked disfigurement, madness, and even death for a chance at aesthetic perfection. Here are five of the most lethal cosmetics from the ancient world that truly gave new meaning to the phrase “beauty to die for”!
1. Lead Foundation: The Poisonous Pallor of Rome
White lead in the form of moulded tablets, once used as a cosmetic in Ancient Greece (Source: Wikipedia)
The ultimate representation of social standing and wealth among women in Ancient Rome was associated with having a body that appeared very light and pale. This was achieved through the application of Venetian Ceruse, a type of cosmetic created from white lead shavings, vinegar and water.
