Beauty
What a skincare routine in the early 1800s looked like – with real historic recipes
Seeing the differences (and similarities!) between then and now is so interesting!
Luis Gaskell
05.27.24

The allure of historical skincare routines is the fascinating subject of a recent video that has garnered a remarkable 1,624,814 views.

This video takes viewers on a journey back in time, exploring the beauty secrets from two notable books: “The Toilette of Health, Beauty, and Fashion” from 1832 and “The Mirror of the Graces” from 1813.

These texts, filled with what were then called “receipts,” offer a glimpse into the beauty practices of the past.

By recreating these recipes with their original methods and ingredients, the video provides a vivid portrayal of skincare routines from 200 years ago.

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The video does more than just tell; it shows.

Through the use of images and visual demonstrations, viewers can see the actual receipts as they appeared in these historical books.

Having physical copies and props keep things authentic-looking, and that’s sure to keep the audience hooked.

The host meticulously follows the old methods, providing a hands-on experience of how people used to care for their skin centuries ago.

It’s a blend of education and entertainment, making the historical practices come alive.

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Common ingredients in these historical skincare receipts include almonds, oatmeal, and cream.

While today these items are often found in a healthy breakfast, they were once treasured for their skincare benefits.

The video highlights the versatility of these ingredients, showing how they were used to create various lotions and potions aimed at enhancing beauty and health.

This juxtaposition of then and now provides an interesting perspective on how perceptions of these ingredients have evolved.

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The host’s recreation of the skincare recipes is a key highlight.

Using only the tools and techniques available at the time, the host demonstrates the preparation and application of these historical treatments.

This immersive approach allows viewers to appreciate the effort and craftsmanship involved in skincare before the advent of modern cosmetics and technology.

The tactile and sensory experience of grinding almonds or mixing oatmeal with cream offers a unique window into the daily routines generations long gone.

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One of the most compelling aspects of the video is its examination of the similarities and differences between past and modern skincare practices.

Despite the centuries that separate us from these historical receipts, some principles remain surprisingly relevant.

The use of natural ingredients, for example, is a trend that has seen a resurgence in recent years.

However, the methods of preparation and application have evolved significantly, which we have advancements in science and technology to thank for.

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The video also provides a critical look at the effectiveness of these historical skincare treatments.

By testing them in the present day, the host offers insights into how well they stand the test of time.

This experimental approach adds a layer of curiosity and discovery, as viewers can see firsthand whether these old-fashioned recipes hold up, or if they were replaced for a reason.

It’s a blend of nostalgia and pragmatism that keeps the content engaging.

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For those particularly interested in historical documentation, the video saves a special treat for the very end.

Images of the actual recipes from “The Toilette of Health, Beauty, and Fashion” and “The Mirror of the Graces” are shown, providing a direct link to the past.

These visuals are not just supplementary but essential, as they ground the recreated practices in their original context.

Viewers are encouraged to watch until the end to fully appreciate the historical depth of the content.

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The popularity of this video, evidenced by its over 1.6 million views, might indicate that there’s a bit of an audience for historical beauty and self-care practices.

It appeals to a wide audience, from history buffs to beauty enthusiasts, and those curious about the origins of the products and routines we take for granted today.

The video’s success highlights the enduring fascination with how our ancestors lived and cared for themselves.

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In essence, this video is a captivating blend of history, beauty, and practical experimentation.

It offers viewers a unique opportunity to step back in time and explore the skincare routines of the past through authentic recreations and vivid imagery.

Seeing the different practices then vs now is some welcome education, and it’s fun to watch for many people as well.

For anyone intrigued by the evolution of beauty practices, this video is a must-watch.

Watch the interesting video below.

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