Achieving the pale look
Many people across ancient Europe wanted to look as pale as possible for all kinds of reasons. While there were many methods to create the look, a popular choice for many was to use ceruse. This was a type of paste made from vinegar and lead that was then spread over people’s faces. Although it achieved the look, it came with some dangerous side effects.
People often suffered poor dental health, scarred and blackened skin, and hair loss thanks to the makeup. Queen Elizabeth, I was one of the many that brought the trend to light as the royal was rarely ever seen without her white makeup. Historians now believe that her use of lead was part of what caused the queen to lose her life.
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