12 Unconventional Beauty Products from History

Long before the rise of department stores and pharmacies, people relied on homemade cosmetics, many of which contained rather peculiar components.

Even in modern times, the contents of your makeup bag might astonish you. However, be cautious -- the lengths we go to for beauty can sometimes be shocking . . . and even hazardous.

1. Ambergris

Ambergris -- a waxy, highly flammable substance with a sweet and earthy scent -- is derived from whale intestines and utilized in perfume production. Before the 18th century, both men and women shaped ambergris into beads, wearing them as fragrant necklaces. While whales naturally excrete this substance (often humorously referred to as whale vomit), synthetic versions are now created to avoid harming whales for this prized material.

2. Wax

Wax is a staple in modern hair and facial products, but ancient Egyptians used it in a more inventive way. They placed cones of pomade, or scented ointment, on their heads, allowing body heat to gradually melt the wax and release a delightful fragrance.

3. Kohl

Kohl, typically made from soot, was widely used as black eyeliner in ancient Egypt, North Africa, the Middle East, and Greece. While it helped shield the eyes from intense sunlight and certain infections, some kohl formulations contained lead, a hazardous ingredient. Lead exposure can lead to severe health issues, including insanity and death.

4. Carmine

The cochineal bug, a vibrant red insect, primarily inhabits cacti in regions like Peru, Chile, Mexico, and the Canary Islands. For centuries, these insects have been crushed to extract carminic acid, which is used to create a vivid red dye known as carmine. Commonly found in lipsticks, blushes, and eye shadows, this dye is now also produced synthetically.

Who would have thought beauty products contain ingredients like bee glue and more? Discover additional fascinating details on the next page.

5. Guanine

Guanine crystals, derived from fish scales and guano (the waste of bats and seabirds), refract light to create a beautiful, pearly effect. This compound is responsible for the shimmering, glittery look in beauty products like shampoo, nail polish, and radiant lotions.

6. Boar Bristles

Not all hairbrushes are the same, especially for enthusiasts of boar bristle brushes. The scaly texture of boar bristles makes them excellent for cleansing the hair shaft, follicle, and scalp, as well as evenly spreading natural oils. Boars are not harmed for their bristles; they are simply sheared, much like sheep. These brushes are available in upscale salons and online, typically priced around $35.

7. Chitosan

Chitosan oligosaccharide, derived from chitin found in the exoskeletons of shrimp, crabs, and other shellfish, is a key ingredient in facial cleansers and creams for its moisture-retention properties. This substance not only keeps the product fresh but also ensures the skin stays hydrated.

8. Hooves and Feathers

Gelatin and keratin, derived from animal parts like hair, hooves, horns, skin, bones, and feathers of cows, chickens, and horses, have been used for decades in shampoos and conditioners as effective binding agents.

9. Propolis

Known as 'bee glue,' propolis is a resinous substance bees gather from tree buds and bark to seal and protect their hives. Its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anesthetic properties make it a popular ingredient in natural lip balms, cosmetics, lotions, shampoos, conditioners, and toothpastes. However, despite being natural, propolis can cause allergic reactions in some individuals.

10. Silk

For centuries, Japanese women have incorporated silk into their clothing and beauty routines. Silk contains 18 amino acids, making it a natural moisturizer that the skin easily absorbs. Only genuine silk, produced by silkworms, offers these benefits, as synthetic alternatives lack these properties.

11. Civet

The civet, resembling a cat but genetically closer to a mongoose, produces secretions from sacs near its anus, which are harvested for perfumes. This extraction process is painful for the animals, prompting animal rights activists to advocate against it. Thankfully, synthetic alternatives now replicate these secretions without harming civets.

12. Londinium Powder

During Japan's Heian era (approximately A.D. 800-1200), women used londinium, a lead-based powder, mixed with water to create a facial paste. Like other lead-based cosmetics worldwide, this substance was harmful, as lead is easily absorbed by the body, leading to severe health issues and even death.

Helen Davies, Marjorie Dorfman, Mary Fons, Deborah Hawkins, Martin Hintz, Linnea Lundgren, David Priess, Julia Clark Robinson, Paul Seaburn, Heidi Stevens, and Steve Theunissen