Use a Japanese adzuki bean scrub for gentle exfoliation, not a harsh apricot scrub.
The Geisha’s Secret to Smooth Skin
For years, I used a popular, gritty apricot scrub, thinking the harsh texture meant it was working. It often left my skin feeling red and raw. Then I discovered the ancient Japanese secret of using adzuki beans. For centuries, Japanese women have used finely ground adzuki beans as a gentle exfoliant. The powder creates a soft, creamy paste when mixed with water. It gently buffs away dead skin cells without causing the micro-tears and irritation that harsh, jagged scrubs can. It was a revelation in how gentle and effective exfoliation could be.
Stop using complex 10-step routines; adopt the ancient Greek philosophy of “less is more” with olive oil and honey instead.
The Olympian’s Glow
I was completely overwhelmed by the trendy 10-step skincare routines. My bathroom counter was cluttered with bottles and my wallet was empty. I decided to look back to a simpler time and adopted the ancient Greek approach. They valued simplicity and used what nature provided. I started cleansing my face with olive oil and using a simple raw honey mask a few times a week for its antibacterial and hydrating properties. My skin has never been clearer or calmer. It taught me that a few high-quality, natural ingredients are often more effective than a dozen complicated steps.
Stop buying expensive bath bombs; create a Roman-style milk and honey bath for soft skin instead.
A Bath Fit for an Empress
I love a luxurious bath, but a single, fancy bath bomb can be so expensive. I took a cue from the ancient Romans, who were masters of bathing culture. They knew that a milk and honey bath was the secret to soft, supple skin. I started adding a few cups of whole milk and a generous scoop of honey to my warm bathwater. The lactic acid in the milk gently exfoliates, while the honey is a natural humectant that draws moisture into the skin. It’s an incredibly decadent, skin-softening experience for a fraction of the cost.
The #1 secret for bright skin that Geishas have used for centuries is rice bran water (Komenuka).
The Rice Water Radiance
I was always chasing a brighter, more even-toned complexion, trying every new Vitamin C serum on the market. The best secret I found wasn’t new at all; it was an ancient practice from Japan. For centuries, Geishas have used the milky water left over from rinsing rice, known as Komenuka, to cleanse and brighten their skin. Rice bran is naturally rich in vitamins and antioxidants. I started saving the water from my rice cooker and using it as a final facial rinse. It’s a free, simple step that has given my skin a beautiful, luminous glow.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about modern beauty is that it’s more advanced than ancient wisdom.
The Ancient Advantage
We are constantly being sold “new” and “advanced” beauty technology. We’re made to believe that the latest lab-created serum is always superior to the wisdom of the past. The lie is that new is always better. For thousands of years, cultures around the world have perfected the use of powerful, effective botanical ingredients and rituals—like using turmeric in India or shea butter in Africa. These time-tested practices have worked for centuries. Modern science is fantastic, but we should not dismiss the profound and proven wisdom of our ancestors.
I wish I knew this about Cleopatra’s use of Dead Sea salts when I was just using basic Epsom salts.
The Queen’s Salt
I love a good salt bath for soothing sore muscles. For years, my go-to was plain Epsom salts. They worked fine. I wish I had known that the legendary Cleopatra’s secret was bathing in salts from the Dead Sea. Unlike Epsom salt, which is just magnesium sulfate, Dead Sea salt contains a unique concentration of over 20 different minerals. A bath with these salts not only soothes your muscles but also helps to detoxify and soften the skin in a way that regular salts just can’t match. It’s a true, ancient spa treatment.
I’m just going to say it: The ancient Egyptians perfected the cat-eye with kohl 4,000 years before influencers did.
The Original Influencers
I see influencers on social media acting as if they invented the dramatic winged eyeliner look. I’m just going to say it: the ancient Egyptians did it first, and they did it better. As far back as 4,000 BC, both men and women were using kohl to create that iconic, almond-shaped cat-eye. It wasn’t just for beauty; they believed it had magical healing properties and could protect their eyes from the sun’s glare and ward off infections. It was a powerful, symbolic, and beautifully executed look that has truly stood the test of time.
99% of people trying “natural” beauty make this one mistake that ancient cultures never did.
The Preservation Problem
I see so many people getting into “natural” beauty by mixing up fresh, preservative-free concoctions in their kitchen. The mistake they are making is creating more than they can use in a day or two. Ancient cultures that used fresh ingredients understood their fleeting nature. They would prepare their ubtan or their fruit mask right before they used it. They weren’t making big batches of a water-based lotion and leaving it in their hot, steamy bathroom for weeks to grow bacteria. They understood the fresh-is-best, small-batch principle.
This one small habit of using a Chinese jade roller will change the way you de-puff your face, a practice thousands of years old.
The Empress’s Stone
I used to wake up with a puffy face and just accept it as my reality. Then I discovered the jade roller, a tool that has been used in China since at least the 7th century. The simple habit of gently rolling the naturally cool stone over my face in the morning has been transformative. It helps to stimulate lymphatic drainage to reduce puffiness, and the cooling sensation feels incredible. It’s a small, meditative ritual that connects me to a thousands-of-years-old practice and makes me look and feel more refreshed.
If you’re still only using modern, lab-created ingredients, you’re losing centuries of proven botanical wisdom from Ayurveda.
The Ayurvedic Approach
My skincare routine was full of the latest and greatest lab-created peptides and acids. But I felt like I was missing something. I started to explore Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of medicine. I learned about powerful botanicals like turmeric for inflammation, amla for its Vitamin C content, and ashwagandha for stress. If you are only focused on modern ingredients, you are ignoring a 5,000-year-old system of holistic health and wellness that has a deep understanding of how these powerful plants can heal and nourish the skin from the inside out.
Use Indian Amla oil for hair strength, not a modern silicone-based serum.
The Amla Advantage
My hair was feeling weak and was prone to breakage. I was using a modern, silicone-based serum that made my hair feel slippery, but it didn’t feel any stronger. I switched to an ancient remedy from India: Amla oil. This oil, derived from the Indian gooseberry, is incredibly rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants. For centuries, it has been used to strengthen hair follicles, condition the hair, and promote healthy growth. Regular scalp massages with Amla oil have made my hair feel genuinely stronger and healthier from the root, not just coated in a synthetic film.
Stop using harsh chemical peels; try a gentle fruit enzyme mask inspired by ancient Polynesian traditions instead.
The Polynesian Peel
I was always scared of harsh chemical peels, but I wanted the exfoliating benefits. I found inspiration in ancient Polynesian beauty traditions. For centuries, islanders have used the natural enzymes found in fruits like papaya and pineapple to create gentle exfoliating masks. These fruit enzymes, papain and bromelain, work to dissolve the dead skin cells on the surface of the skin without the harshness of strong acids. A simple mask made from mashed papaya is a gentle, effective way to get a brighter, smoother complexion, inspired by paradise.
Stop thinking of turmeric as just a spice; use it as an Ayurvedic anti-inflammatory face mask instead.
The Golden Glow
I always had a jar of turmeric in my spice cabinet that I only used for making curry. I had no idea I was ignoring one of the most powerful beauty ingredients in the world. In India, turmeric has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine and beauty rituals, especially for brides before their wedding. Its active compound, curcumin, is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. A simple face mask made with a pinch of turmeric, yogurt, and honey helps to reduce redness, fight acne, and give the skin an incredible, golden glow.
The #1 secret for a flawless complexion from the Renaissance is using strawberry juice as a natural toner.
The Renaissance Radiance
The portraits from the Renaissance always depict women with the most luminous, flawless complexions. One of their secrets was a simple, natural toner: strawberries. Women would rub sliced strawberries or strawberry juice on their faces. Strawberries are a natural source of salicylic acid and ellagic acid, which help to gently exfoliate the skin, tighten pores, and brighten the complexion. It’s a simple, centuries-old trick for achieving a clearer, more radiant skin tone, straight from the pages of history.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about historical beauty is that it was all dangerous and lead-based.
The History’s Nuance
When we think of historical beauty, our minds often jump to the horror stories of women using lead-based makeup or arsenic wafers for a pale complexion. While these dangerous practices did exist, the lie is that this was the whole story. For every toxic trend, there were dozens of safe, effective, and beautiful rituals using natural ingredients. Women were using honey masks, rosewater toners, and botanical oils for thousands of years. To dismiss all historical beauty as dangerous is to ignore a rich and wise heritage of natural self-care.
I wish I knew this about the use of saffron in ancient Persia for glowing skin when I was only using it for paella.
The Persian Secret
I had a tiny, precious jar of saffron in my spice rack that I used on rare occasions to make paella. I wish I had known that I was holding a powerful, ancient beauty ingredient. In ancient Persia, saffron was treasured not just for its flavor, but for its skin-brightening properties. It’s a powerful antioxidant that can help to improve complexion and give the skin a radiant glow. A simple toner made by soaking a few saffron threads in rosewater is a luxurious, historical treatment for luminous skin.
I’m just going to say it: The Victorian “no-makeup” look was more strategic than today’s “no-makeup makeup.”
The Victorian Illusion
We think that the “no-makeup makeup” look is a modern invention. I’m just going to say it: the Victorians were the true masters of this art. In an era where overt makeup was associated with actresses and prostitutes, respectable women used a huge arsenal of subtle tricks to achieve a look of natural, rosy-cheeked, bright-eyed health. They would bite their lips for a natural flush, use discreet powders to reduce shine, and even use drops of belladonna to dilate their pupils. It was a highly strategic and effortful illusion of effortlessness.
99% of people make this one mistake when using traditional African black soap.
The Direct Application
I was so excited to try traditional African black soap for its clarifying benefits. The mistake I made was to take the raw, crumbly bar and rub it directly on my face. It was way too harsh and stripping. The correct, traditional way to use it is to lather a small piece of the soap up in your hands first, creating a rich, gentle foam. You then wash your face with the lather, not the bar itself. This gives you all the cleansing benefits without the harsh, direct application that can be too much for your skin.
This one small action of incorporating Moroccan rhassoul clay into your routine will change the way you clarify your skin and hair forever.
The Rhassoul Ritual
I was used to using French green clay or bentonite clay for my masks. Then I discovered rhassoul clay from the Atlas Mountains of Morocco. This clay has been used for over a thousand years by Moroccan women to cleanse their skin and hair. This one small action of swapping my usual clay for rhassoul was a game-changer. It has a unique, silky texture and is incredibly effective at drawing out impurities and absorbing oil, but it does so without stripping the skin or hair of its natural moisture. It leaves my skin feeling clean but also incredibly soft.
If you’re still using a basic moisturizer, you’re losing the deep conditioning power of African shea butter, a secret passed down for generations.
The Shea Secret
My body lotion was fine, but it never seemed to provide any deep, lasting moisture for my dry skin. I was missing out on one of Africa’s most precious beauty secrets: shea butter. For generations, women in West Africa have been using shea butter, derived from the nut of the shea tree, to nourish and protect their skin. It’s incredibly rich in fatty acids and vitamins. Using raw, unrefined shea butter as a body moisturizer has a deep, conditioning power that a simple, water-based lotion just can’t match.
Use Korean ginseng for skin elasticity, not just another peptide cream.
The Ginseng Glow
I was looking for a product to help with my skin’s firmness and elasticity. My first thought was to find a modern peptide cream. But then I looked to the wisdom of Korean beauty traditions. Ginseng has been a treasured ingredient in traditional Korean medicine for thousands of years. Topically, it’s known for its incredible ability to help boost circulation and stimulate collagen production, which can improve the skin’s elasticity and give it a vibrant, healthy glow. It’s a powerful, ancient root with impressive modern benefits.
Stop using disposable sheet masks; use the ancient Indian practice of “ubtan” paste masks instead.
The Ubtan Upgrade
I loved the convenience of a sheet mask, but I hated the daily waste. I found a much more sustainable and effective alternative in the ancient Indian tradition of “ubtan.” An ubtan is a traditional cleansing paste made from a mixture of powders like chickpea flour, turmeric, sandalwood, and milk or yogurt. You mix the powder into a fresh paste before each use. It gently cleanses, exfoliates, and brightens the skin, and there is absolutely no waste. It’s a beautiful, customizable ritual that connects you to centuries of wisdom.
Stop buying expensive lip stains; use beet juice for a natural flush like women in the Middle Ages.
The Beetroot Beauty
I love the look of a natural, rosy lip stain, but the store-bought versions can be so expensive. I found a much cheaper and more natural solution in the beauty practices of the past. For centuries, women have used the natural pigments in foods to add color to their faces. The juice from a simple beet is a powerful, beautiful stain. I just dab a small amount onto my lips with my fingertip, and it gives me a gorgeous, long-lasting, natural-looking flush of color that is completely food-safe and practically free.
The #1 secret for hair growth from the Caribbean is Jamaican black castor oil.
The Jamaican Jewel
I was struggling with thinning edges and wanted to promote healthier, stronger hair growth. The best secret I found comes from the long-standing traditions of the Caribbean: Jamaican black castor oil. This thick, rich oil is created by roasting and then pressing castor beans. It’s packed with nutrients and has been used for generations to moisturize the scalp, strengthen the hair shaft, and encourage healthy growth. Regular scalp massages with this potent oil have made a huge difference in the health and thickness of my hair.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about French beauty is that it’s effortless.
The French Fallacy
We are constantly sold the image of the “French girl” who just rolls out of bed with perfect, tousled hair and glowing skin. The biggest lie is that this look is effortless. French beauty is not about a lack of effort; it’s about a different kind of effort. It’s about investing in high-quality, long-term skincare rather than a lot of makeup. It’s about regular visits to the esthetician and the pharmacy. It’s a highly considered, disciplined approach that is designed to look effortless. But make no mistake, the effort is there.
I wish I knew this about the Scandinavian tradition of sauna and cold plunges for skin detoxification when I was younger.
The Nordic Cycle
I used to think of a sauna as just a way to relax. I wish I had known about the powerful Scandinavian beauty tradition of combining the sauna with a cold plunge. This cycle of intense heat followed by intense cold has incredible benefits for the skin. The heat helps to open up pores and promote sweating, which can help to clear out impurities. The subsequent cold plunge constricts the pores and boosts circulation, leaving your skin feeling incredibly toned, refreshed, and with a vibrant glow. It’s a powerful, invigorating ritual.
I’m just going to say it: The minimalist Japanese skincare routine is more effective than the elaborate 10-step Korean one for most people.
The J-Beauty Simplicity
I was completely swept up in the 10-step Korean skincare craze. My routine was complicated and time-consuming. I’m just going to say it: for most people, the minimalist Japanese approach is so much more effective. Japanese skincare is focused on a few, high-quality, hydrating products used consistently. A simple routine of a double cleanse, a hydrating lotion (or essence), and a moisturizer is often all you need. This gentle, “less is more” philosophy focuses on respecting the skin’s barrier and leads to calm, healthy skin without the overwhelming number of steps.
99% of people make this one mistake when trying to incorporate traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) into their beauty routine.
The Internal Imbalance
People get excited about TCM beauty tools like the gua sha or jade roller. The mistake they make is thinking that just using the external tool is the whole practice. In TCM, outer beauty is a direct reflection of inner balance. These tools are meant to be used in conjunction with a holistic approach that considers your diet, your emotional state, and the flow of your “qi” or life force. Just scraping your face with a stone, without understanding the underlying principles of inner health, is missing the entire point of these ancient, powerful practices.
This one small habit of dry brushing, an ancient practice from many cultures, will change the way your skin’s circulation and texture looks forever.
The Ancient Brush
Dry brushing seems like a modern wellness trend, but it’s actually an ancient practice found in many cultures, from the Greeks to the Japanese. The simple habit of taking a natural bristle brush and gently stroking my dry skin before a shower has had a huge impact. It’s a powerful way to exfoliate dead skin cells, but more importantly, it stimulates the lymphatic system and boosts circulation. My skin is not only smoother and less prone to ingrown hairs, but it also has a healthy, vibrant glow.
If you’re still only looking at Western beauty standards, you’re losing a world of diverse and beautiful traditions.
The Global Gaze
For so long, the mainstream beauty industry has been dominated by a very narrow, Western-centric ideal of beauty. If you are only consuming this one perspective, you are missing out on a rich, vibrant, and incredibly diverse world of beauty. The traditions of using henna in India, the value placed on facial scars in some African tribes, the intricate hair-braiding techniques—these are all powerful, beautiful expressions of identity and culture. Expanding your gaze to appreciate global beauty traditions is so much more interesting and enriching.
Use camellia oil for removing makeup like the Japanese, not a harsh foaming cleanser.
The Tsubaki Touch
I used to attack my makeup with a harsh, foaming cleanser that would leave my skin feeling tight and stripped. I learned a much gentler and more elegant method from the beauty rituals of Japan. For centuries, Japanese women have used Camellia oil, or “Tsubaki” oil, as the first step in their cleansing routine. Massaging this lightweight, nourishing oil into the skin dissolves all traces of makeup and impurities without disrupting the skin’s natural moisture barrier. It’s the gentle, effective secret to a truly clean and comfortable face.
Stop using setting sprays with alcohol; use a simple rosewater mist, a favorite of ancient Persians and Romans.
The Rosewater Revival
I used to set my makeup with a spray that was full of alcohol. It worked, but it always left my skin feeling a little bit dry. I found a much more beautiful and historic alternative: rosewater. For thousands of years, from ancient Persia to Rome, rosewater has been treasured for its ability to tone, hydrate, and soothe the skin. A light misting of pure rosewater over my finished makeup not only helps to set it and give it a more natural, skin-like finish, but it also provides a calming, hydrating boost.
Stop thinking of henna as just for temporary tattoos; use it as a strengthening hair gloss like women in North Africa and the Middle East.
The Henna Hair
My only experience with henna was the temporary tattoos you can get on vacation. I had no idea it was one of the world’s oldest and most effective hair treatments. For thousands of years, women in North Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia have used henna as a natural hair conditioner and gloss. It works by binding to the keratin in the hair shaft, which strengthens the hair, smooths the cuticle, and can add a beautiful, reddish tint. It’s a powerful, natural way to get stronger, shinier hair.
The #1 secret for toned skin from Brazil is rubbing sand on your body at the beach.
The Sand Scrub
When I would go to the beach, I would always rush to rinse the sand off my body. But I learned from Brazilian beauty culture that I was washing away a free, incredible spa treatment. Brazilian women have long known that a handful of wet sand is one of the best body exfoliators in the world. Gently rubbing the sand on your skin, especially on areas like the thighs and buttocks, helps to exfoliate dead skin cells and stimulate circulation. It’s the number one secret to that smooth, toned, beach-ready skin.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about historical makeup is that it was crude; ancient Egyptian palettes were incredibly advanced.
The Advanced Artistry
We often have a cartoonish image of historical makeup, thinking it was just crude, clownish paint. The lie is that it was unsophisticated. The ancient Egyptians, for example, were master cosmetic chemists. Archaeologists have found incredibly well-preserved makeup palettes and pots. They were not just grinding up charcoal; they were creating complex, lead-based pigments (which were dangerous, but effective) and had a deep understanding of how to create long-lasting, dramatic, and beautifully crafted cosmetics. Their skill and artistry were remarkably advanced.
I wish I knew this about the use of pearl powder by Chinese royalty for skin brightening.
The Imperial Pearl
I was searching for ingredients to help brighten my skin and give it a luminous glow. I wish I had known about a luxurious secret that was used for centuries by royalty in China: pearl powder. Literally made from finely milled freshwater pearls, this powder is rich in minerals and amino acids. It was used both internally and topically to promote a radiant, clear, and “lit-from-within” complexion. It’s an ancient symbol of luxury and a powerful ingredient for achieving beautiful, bright skin.
I’m just going to say it: The Roaring ’20s Clara Bow lip is more iconic than the Kylie Jenner lip.
The Bow vs. The Pout
The over-lined, matte, full lip look popularized by Kylie Jenner has dominated the last decade. But I’m just going to say it: the “Cupid’s Bow” lip, made famous by silent film star Clara Bow in the 1920s, is so much more iconic and interesting. This look involved emphasizing the Cupid’s bow to an exaggerated point and rounding out the bottom lip, creating a very deliberate, doll-like pout. It was a stylized, artistic statement that perfectly captured the rebellious spirit of the Flapper era.
99% of people misunderstand this one thing about the history of red lipstick.
The Red Rebellion
People often think of red lipstick as a simple symbol of classic glamour. The thing that most people misunderstand is that throughout history, red lipstick has also been a powerful symbol of rebellion and protest. In the early 20th century, American suffragettes wore bold red lipstick as a symbol of defiance and emancipation. It was seen as a “brazen” act. So, when you wear a red lip, you are not just being glamorous; you are participating in a long and powerful history of female rebellion.
This one small action of using a gua sha stone will connect you to centuries of Chinese wellness practices forever.
The Stone’s Story
When I first started using a gua sha stone, I just thought of it as a trendy new de-puffing tool. But the small action of incorporating it into my daily routine was actually connecting me to something much deeper. Gua sha is a practice that is thousands of years old and is deeply rooted in the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It’s not just about aesthetics; it’s about promoting the healthy flow of “qi” or energy through the body. Using this simple stone is a way to participate in and honor a rich, ancient wellness tradition.
If you’re still using a basic body lotion, you’re losing the antioxidant power of grapeseed oil, a byproduct of ancient winemaking.
The Vineyard’s Virtue
My simple body lotion was moisturizing, but it wasn’t providing any real, protective benefits. I was missing out on the power of an ancient ingredient: grapeseed oil. This lightweight, silky oil is a byproduct of the winemaking process, something the ancient Greeks and Romans had in abundance. It’s packed with powerful antioxidants, like proanthocyanidin, that help to protect the skin from environmental damage. Using a body oil or lotion with grapeseed oil is a fantastic way to moisturize and protect your skin at the same time.
Use a Greek yogurt and honey mask for lactic acid exfoliation, not a store-bought peel.
The Hellenic Honey
I wanted the exfoliating benefits of a lactic acid peel, but the store-bought versions were often too harsh for my skin. I found a gentler, more natural solution inspired by the ancient Greeks. I started making a simple face mask with thick, Greek yogurt and a little bit of raw honey. The yogurt is a natural source of lactic acid, which gently dissolves dead skin cells. The honey is a natural humectant and antibacterial. It’s a simple, soothing, and effective mask that leaves my skin soft, bright, and hydrated.
Stop throwing away your coffee grounds; use them as a stimulating scrub, a tradition from South America.
The Brazilian Buzz
Every morning, I would throw away my used coffee grounds. I had no idea I was wasting a free, incredible body treatment. In many South American countries, especially Brazil, coffee grounds are a traditional ingredient in body scrubs. The caffeine in the coffee is a great vasoconstrictor, which can help to temporarily tighten the skin and improve the appearance of cellulite. The grounds themselves are the perfect texture for an invigorating scrub to slough off dead skin. It’s a zero-waste secret for smooth, stimulated skin.
Stop buying into the idea of a “perfect” nose; the ancient Romans valued strong, aquiline features.
The Roman Nose
Our modern beauty standards, heavily influenced by social media, often promote a very specific type of small, “perfectly” sloped nose. We are taught to see a strong nose as a flaw. But we should look to the ancient Romans. They valued a strong, prominent, aquiline nose as a sign of character, leadership, and intelligence. Their statues and busts celebrate this feature. It’s a powerful reminder that beauty standards are not universal or permanent, and what is considered a “flaw” in one culture can be a mark of distinction in another.
The #1 secret for strong nails from the Dominican Republic is using garlic in your nail polish.
The Dominican Dream Nails
I was struggling with weak, peeling nails that would never grow. The strangest but most effective secret I found comes from the Dominican Republic. For generations, Dominican women have been known for their incredibly strong, long nails. Their traditional secret is to add chopped garlic to a bottle of clear nail polish and let it infuse for a week or two. The garlic has natural strengthening and antibacterial properties. While it might smell a little bit at first, it’s a powerful, time-tested remedy for stronger nails.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about Victorian beauty is that they were prudes; they had many subtle cosmetic tricks.
The Victorian Veil
We have this image of Victorian women as being very prudish and completely against any form of makeup. The lie is that they were bare-faced. In reality, they had a whole secret world of “cosmetic sorcery.” While overt paint was frowned upon, they used a huge variety of subtle enhancers. They would use “rouge papers” to discreetly add a flush to their cheeks, darken their lashes with elderberry wine, and use powders and creams to achieve a flawless, “natural” complexion. Their beauty was all about subtle, undetectable artifice.
I wish I knew this about the use of neem oil in Ayurvedic medicine for treating acne and eczema.
The Neem Necessity
I struggled with both acne and patches of eczema for years. I was using a collection of different modern treatments that were often drying and irritating. I wish I had known about the power of neem oil, a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine in India. This potent oil has incredible antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-fungal properties. It’s a true multi-tasker that can help to treat acne breakouts and soothe inflamed, eczematous skin at the same time. It’s a powerful, natural pharmacy in a bottle that has been used for thousands of years.
I’m just going to say it: The beauty rituals tied to the Onsen and Sento in Japan are the ultimate form of self-care.
The Art of the Bath
I used to think of bathing as just a way to get clean. I’m just going to say it: the Japanese bathing culture surrounding the onsen (hot springs) and sento (public baths) is the ultimate form of self-care. It’s not about a quick wash. It’s a slow, mindful ritual. It involves a period of thorough scrubbing and cleansing before you even get into the hot water. The soak itself is for relaxation and connection. It’s a beautiful practice that cleanses the body and calms the spirit.
99% of people make this one mistake when trying to make their own traditional remedies.
The Purity Problem
I love the idea of making my own traditional beauty remedies, like a turmeric mask or a honey scrub. The mistake almost everyone makes is not considering the quality of their raw ingredients. You can’t just use any old spice from the back of your cabinet. Traditional remedies relied on fresh, pure, and often organic ingredients. Using a cheap, irradiated turmeric powder or a processed honey bear will not give you the same benefits as using a high-quality, organic turmeric or a raw, unfiltered honey. The quality of your ingredients is paramount.
This one small habit of using a silk pillowcase, invented in ancient China, will change the way you protect your skin and hair forever.
The Silken Slumber
Silk pillowcases feel like a modern luxury, but they are actually an ancient invention from China, where silk production was perfected thousands of years ago. The small habit of switching my cotton pillowcase for a silk one has had a huge impact on my skin and hair. The smooth surface creates less friction, which means less sleep creases on my face and less frizz and breakage for my hair. It also doesn’t absorb my expensive nighttime skincare products, allowing them to stay on my face. It’s a timeless beauty secret.
If you’re still following fleeting TikTok trends, you’re losing the timeless wisdom of rituals that have worked for centuries.
The Timeless vs. The Trendy
I used to get so caught up in the latest viral TikTok beauty trend. One week it was “slugging,” the next it was a weird makeup hack. It was fun, but it was also chaotic and often ineffective. If you are still only chasing these fleeting trends, you are missing out on the power of timeless rituals. Practices like dry brushing, oil cleansing, and using clay masks have been passed down for centuries for a simple reason: they work. Grounding your routine in these proven, ancient practices is so much more effective than chasing the next 15-second fad.
Use calendula-infused oil for calming skin, a remedy used in ancient Greece and Rome.
The Calendula Calm
When my skin is red, irritated, or inflamed, I reach for a simple, ancient remedy: calendula. This beautiful, marigold-like flower has been used since the time of the ancient Greeks and Romans for its incredible skin-soothing properties. I make my own calendula-infused oil by steeping the dried flowers in a carrier oil like jojoba for a few weeks. It’s a gentle but powerful anti-inflammatory that helps to calm down rashes, burns, and general irritation. It’s a staple in my natural first-aid kit.
Stop using harsh astringents; use witch hazel, a Native American medicinal plant, instead.
The Witch Hazel Wisdom
My first toner was a harsh, alcohol-based astringent that would sting and leave my skin feeling tight. A much better, more natural alternative comes from the wisdom of the Native American tribes of North America. They were the first to discover the medicinal properties of the witch hazel plant. A distillate made from the leaves and bark of the plant is a wonderful, gentle astringent that helps to tone the skin and reduce inflammation without the stripping effects of alcohol. It’s a time-honored, gentle botanical remedy.
Stop thinking of charcoal as a new trend; ancient Egyptians and Hindus used it for purification.
The Ancient Ash
Activated charcoal seems like a very modern, trendy ingredient in face masks and cleansers. But its use in purification is thousands of years old. The ancient Egyptians used charcoal for cleaning wounds, and in ancient India, Hindu texts describe using charcoal for filtering water. They understood its incredible ability to absorb impurities. So, when you use a charcoal mask today, you are not participating in a new fad; you are tapping into an ancient purification technology that has been recognized by cultures around the world for millennia.
The #1 secret for a natural highlight from ancient Egypt was using crushed fish scales.
The Fishy Finery
We think of shimmery highlighters as a modern makeup staple. But the desire for a radiant glow is ancient. The number one secret for a natural, pearlescent highlight in ancient Egypt was not a powder, but a paste made from crushed fish scales. This created a beautiful, iridescent shimmer that they would apply to their cheekbones and eyes. While we have much more convenient (and less fishy) options today, it’s a fascinating reminder that the desire to catch the light and glow is nothing new.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about beauty history is that it was only for the wealthy.
The People’s Potions
We often see historical beauty portrayed through the lens of royalty and the aristocracy—Cleopatra in her milk baths or Marie Antoinette with her elaborate powders. The lie is that beauty practices were only for the elite. For all of history, everyday people have used the resources available to them to care for themselves. A farmer’s wife in medieval Europe might not have had access to fancy perfumes, but she knew which herbs to use to soothe a burn or how to use berries to stain her lips. Beauty has always been a universal human practice.
I wish I knew this about the 18th-century practice of “mouches” (beauty patches) to cover blemishes stylishly.
The Posh Patch
When I get a pimple, my first instinct is to try and cover it up with heavy concealer. I wish I had known about the clever and stylish solution from the 18th century: the “mouche.” These were small patches made of silk or velvet, cut into shapes like hearts, stars, or circles. Women (and men) would place these patches strategically on their face, not only to cover up a blemish or a scar, but also as a fashionable statement. It was a brilliant way to turn a “flaw” into a flirtatious fashion accessory.
I’m just going to say it: The ancient art of hair oiling from India is better than any modern hair mask.
The Oiling Ordinance
I’ve tried dozens of expensive, modern hair masks that promise to repair and condition my hair. They provide a temporary softness, but I’m just going to say it: the ancient Indian practice of hair oiling is so much better. The ritual of warming a nourishing oil, like coconut or amla oil, and massaging it into the scalp and through the hair before washing is a deeply conditioning treatment. It nourishes the scalp, strengthens the root, and protects the hair shaft. It’s a time-tested ritual that provides a level of health that a quick, silicone-based mask just can’t replicate.
99% of people misunderstand the cultural significance of tattoos in Polynesian societies.
The Tatau Truth
In the Western world, we often think of tattoos as a form of personal decoration or rebellion. The mistake is applying this lens to the tattoos of Polynesian cultures. The traditional art of “tatau” is not just about aesthetics. It’s a sacred practice that is deeply woven into their cultural identity. The intricate patterns tell the story of a person’s genealogy, their social status, and their personal achievements. It is a visual language that connects them to their ancestors and their community. It is so much more than just “body art.”
This one small action of brewing a green tea rinse for your hair will give you the antioxidant benefits prized in East Asia for centuries.
The Tea Treatment
I love drinking green tea for its health benefits, but I had no idea it was also a traditional beauty treatment for hair. For centuries, in countries like China and Japan, women have used a green tea rinse to improve the health and shine of their hair. Green tea is packed with antioxidants that can help to protect the hair from damage and catechins that can help to reduce shedding. The simple action of rinsing my hair with cool, brewed green tea after washing has made my hair shinier and my scalp feel healthier.
If you’re still using a basic clay mask, you’re losing the unique mineral benefits of Australian pink clay.
The Pink Clay Power
I was used to using the standard green or grey clays for my face masks. They were good for absorbing oil, but could sometimes be a bit drying. Then I discovered Australian pink clay. This beautiful, soft clay is a gentler option that is rich in silica, which can help to improve skin elasticity and cell renewal. It provides a gentle exfoliation and helps to draw out impurities, but it’s mild enough for sensitive skin. If you are only using the standard clays, you are missing out on this beautiful, mineral-rich alternative.
Use a Mayan chocolate face mask for antioxidant benefits, not just a drugstore brand.
The Mayan Miracle
When I think of a chocolate face mask, I think of a cheap, artificially scented drugstore product. But the use of cacao for beauty is an ancient practice. The Mayans and Aztecs revered cacao as a food of the gods, and they knew of its incredible skin benefits. Pure, raw cacao is one of the most powerful antioxidants in the world. A simple mask made with raw cacao powder, honey, and a little yogurt is a potent, antioxidant-rich treatment that will nourish your skin far more than any novelty mask.
Stop using tweezers; try the ancient art of threading for hair removal instead.
The Threading Technique
I used to spend so much time trying to shape my eyebrows with tweezers, often ending up with an uneven mess. I finally tried threading, an ancient method of hair removal that originated in the Middle East and South Asia. The technician uses a twisted cotton thread to roll over the skin and pull out the hairs from the root. It’s incredibly precise, allowing for a perfectly clean, sharp brow shape. It’s also much faster and, for many people, less painful than tweezing individual hairs.
Stop thinking of body hair removal as a modern invention; ancient Romans and Egyptians practiced it extensively.
The Ancient Epilation
We often think of our modern obsession with body hair removal as a recent phenomenon. But the desire for smooth, hairless skin is ancient. The ancient Egyptians removed their body hair for reasons of cleanliness in the hot climate. And in ancient Rome, hairless skin was considered a sign of high class and refinement. They used a variety of methods, from tweezers and pumice stones to early forms of waxing with sugar pastes. So, that bikini wax is not a modern torture; it’s part of a very long history.
The #1 secret for long, healthy hair from Native American tribes is the use of yucca root as a shampoo.
The Yucca Root Remedy
I was searching for a natural, gentle shampoo that wouldn’t strip my hair. The best ancient secret I found comes from the wisdom of various Native American tribes in the desert Southwest. For centuries, they have used the root of the yucca plant as a natural hair cleanser. When the root is crushed and mixed with water, it creates a gentle, soap-like lather that effectively cleanses the hair and scalp without stripping its natural oils. It’s a beautiful, sustainable, and time-honored botanical secret for healthy hair.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about medieval beauty is that people didn’t bathe.
The Medieval Myth
We have this cartoonish image of the Middle Ages as being a time when everyone was filthy and nobody ever bathed. The lie is that personal hygiene was completely non-existent. While they certainly didn’t have modern plumbing, and bathing was not as frequent as it is today, people did make an effort to be clean. Public bathhouses were common in many towns, people used basins and ewers for daily washing, and they used herbs and floral waters to perfume themselves. The stereotype of the unwashed medieval peasant is largely an exaggeration.
I wish I knew this about the Korean tradition of “first essences” when I was just using a simple toner.
The First Essence
I used to think that a toner was just for wiping away the last traces of dirt after cleansing. I wish I had known about the Korean concept of a “first essence.” An essence is not a toner. It’s a lightweight, watery lotion packed with fermented ingredients and active extracts. Its purpose is to be the very first layer of hydration you apply to your clean skin, to prep it and to help all the subsequent products in your routine absorb more effectively. It was the missing link that took my hydration to the next level.
I’m just going to say it: The way ancient Celts used woad for body art was more badass than any modern temporary tattoo.
The Celtic Warpaint
We think of temporary tattoos as a fun, modern festival accessory. I’m just going to say it: the ancient Celts did it better. Celtic warriors would use woad, a plant that produces a blue dye, to create intricate, swirling patterns of body art before going into battle. It wasn’t just decoration; it was a form of psychological warfare designed to intimidate their enemies. It was a powerful, symbolic, and deeply meaningful form of adornment that is so much more compelling than a modern, stick-on tattoo.
99% of people make this one mistake when using argan oil.
The Application Error
Argan oil, the liquid gold from Morocco, is a fantastic, nourishing oil. The mistake almost everyone makes is using way too much of it. It’s a rich oil, and a little goes a very long way. I used to apply several pumps to my hair, which would just leave it looking greasy and weighed down. The correct way is to use just one or two drops, warm it up in your palms, and then lightly apply it only to the ends of your hair to seal in moisture and add shine. For the face, a tiny drop is all you need.
This one small habit of ending your shower with a cold rinse, a tenet of Spartan and Samurai training, will change the way your skin and hair looks forever.
The Warrior’s Rinse
A cold shower sounds unpleasant, but the practice of ending a wash with a blast of cold water is a tenet of many ancient warrior cultures, from the Spartans to the Samurai. They believed it built resilience and vigor. The beauty benefits are just a side effect. This one small habit of a final cold rinse helps to constrict pores and seal the hair cuticle, which makes your skin look more toned and your hair look much shinier. It also gives you an incredible, energizing jolt to start your day.
If you’re still relying on injectable fillers, you’re losing the facial toning benefits of Japanese Tanaka massage.
The Tanaka Technique
When people start to notice a loss of facial firmness, they often think that injectable fillers are the only answer. But they are missing out on the powerful, traditional Japanese self-massage techniques, like the Tanaka massage. This specific, structured massage routine is designed to work the facial muscles and to promote lymphatic drainage. With consistent practice, it can lead to a visibly more toned, sculpted, and less puffy appearance. It’s a natural, hands-on way to work with your own facial structure, not just inject it.
Use a sea salt spray for textured hair, a trick from beach cultures all over the world.
The Ocean’s Own
The desire for that perfectly imperfect, textured, “beachy” hair is not new. For as long as people have been swimming in the ocean, they’ve known the magic of salt water on their hair. The salt helps to absorb excess oil and creates a gritty texture that gives the hair volume and a piecey, wavy look. You don’t need an expensive, modern texturizing spray. A simple DIY version made with sea salt and water, or a store-bought sea salt spray, will give you that same effect, inspired by beach cultures from around the globe.
Stop buying expensive brow gels; use a simple bar of soap, a trick from Old Hollywood.
The Soap Brow Secret
I was spending so much money on fancy brow gels and waxes to get that full, fluffy, laminated brow look. The best trick I found is actually a very old one, used by makeup artists in the Old Hollywood era. I just take a clean spoolie, lightly dampen it, and rub it on a simple, clear bar of soap. Then I brush it through my brows. The soap provides an incredibly strong, flexible hold that keeps the brows brushed up all day long. It’s a cheap, effective, and classic makeup artist hack.
Stop thinking that pale skin was the only beauty standard; many ancient cultures in Africa and the Pacific valued deep, glowing skin.
The Global Glow
Our history books often focus on the Western beauty ideal, where pale, untouched skin was a sign of wealth and status. But this is a very narrow view. We have to stop thinking this was the only standard. In many ancient cultures in Africa, the Pacific Islands, and Australia, deep, rich, glowing skin was a sign of health, vitality, and beauty. They would use rich oils and butters to accentuate and protect their beautiful, dark complexions. There have always been multiple, diverse, and equally valid standards of beauty all over the world.
The #1 secret for fighting body odor from ancient Egypt was incense and perfume cones worn on the head.
The Perfumed Cone
We rely on a simple swipe of deodorant to control body odor. The ancient Egyptians had a much more creative and theatrical solution. At parties and banquets, wealthy Egyptians would wear a cone of scented wax or fat on top of their heads. As the evening went on and their body heat rose, the cone would slowly melt, releasing a beautiful perfume that would cascade down over their hair and body, keeping them fragrant throughout the event. It was a clever, if a bit messy, ancient form of time-released deodorant.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about historical beauty is that it was simple; many formulations were complex and precise.
The Complex Concoctions
We have a tendency to think of historical beauty remedies as being very simple—just mashing up a berry or a flower. The lie is that it was always that basic. Many ancient cultures had incredibly complex and precise formulations. The ancient Egyptians created complex recipes for their kohl eyeliners, and in traditional Chinese medicine, herbal formulas were created with a deep understanding of how different plants worked in synergy with each other. Their knowledge was sophisticated, and their formulations were often anything but simple.
I wish I knew this about the ‘Venetian ceruse’ (white lead makeup) and the dangers of historical fads.
The Poisonous Pallor
In the 16th and 17th centuries, a deadly pale complexion was the height of fashion. The most popular product to achieve this look was “Venetian ceruse,” a foundation made from white lead. Women would slather this poison all over their faces, necks, and chests. It would cause skin lesions, hair loss, and eventually, death from lead poisoning. Queen Elizabeth I was a famous user. It’s a horrifying reminder that chasing a beauty trend can sometimes have deadly consequences, and that “fashionable” is not always “safe.”
I’m just going to say it: The geisha’s multi-step cleansing ritual is the true origin of modern double-cleansing.
The Geisha’s Cleanse
The “double cleanse” method has become a huge trend in modern skincare. We think of it as a recent Korean beauty invention. I’m just going to say it: the true originators of this practice were the Japanese geishas. To remove their traditional, thick white makeup, they had to employ a multi-step cleansing process. They would first use an oil to dissolve the makeup and then follow with a foaming cleanser to wash everything away. This meticulous, effective cleansing ritual is a centuries-old practice that we have only recently rediscovered.
99% of people misunderstand the purpose of a traditional Turkish bath (Hammam).
The Hammam’s Heart
When most Westerners think of a Turkish bath, or hammam, they just think of a steam room. But the steam is only one part of it. The mistake is thinking it’s just about a relaxing steam. The heart of the hammam experience is the vigorous, full-body exfoliation. After steaming to soften the skin, a therapist uses a special, coarse mitt called a “kessa” to scrub away every last dead skin cell from your body. It is an intense, purifying, and social ritual that is about deep cleaning, not just lounging around.
This one small action of using a kessa glove for exfoliation will give you the smoothest skin of your life, a secret from Moroccan hammams.
The Kessa Glove
I thought I knew what exfoliation was. Then I experienced a traditional Moroccan hammam. The secret weapon is the “kessa” glove. After sitting in a steam room to soften your skin, a therapist takes this rough, textured mitt and scrubs your entire body from head to toe. You will be shocked and horrified to see the sheer amount of dead skin that rolls off your body. This one small action of incorporating a kessa glove into my weekly shower routine has given me the smoothest, softest skin I have ever had.
If you’re still using chemical self-tanners, you’re losing the natural staining power of black tea, a vintage beauty hack.
The Tea Tan
I wanted a subtle, temporary tan, but I didn’t want to use a modern self-tanner with all its chemicals. I found a brilliant, vintage hack that women used to use in the mid-20th century. You brew some very strong, black tea, let it cool completely, and then apply it to your skin with a cotton ball. The tannins in the tea create a very natural-looking, temporary stain on the skin. It’s a simple, gentle, and completely natural way to get a subtle, sun-kissed glow for a day or two.
Use aloe vera for soothing skin, a plant revered by ancient Egyptians as the “plant of immortality.”
The Immortal Plant
We think of aloe vera as a simple, modern treatment for sunburns. But our use of this incredible plant is part of a very long history. The ancient Egyptians revered aloe vera. They called it the “plant of immortality” and used it for a huge variety of medicinal and beauty purposes. They knew of its powerful anti-inflammatory and healing properties. So, when you are soothing your skin with aloe vera, you are using a remedy that has been trusted and treasured for thousands of years by one of the world’s most advanced ancient civilizations.
Stop thinking of tattoos as a modern rebellion; Ötzi the Iceman had them 5,300 years ago.
The Iceman’s Ink
We often associate tattoos with modern counter-culture and rebellion. But the practice of tattooing is ancient. In 1991, the preserved body of a man, now known as Ötzi the Iceman, was found in the Alps. He lived around 5,300 years ago, and his body was covered in over 60 tattoos. They were simple lines and crosses, and researchers believe they may have been a form of therapeutic treatment for joint pain, similar to acupuncture. It’s a powerful reminder that body modification is a fundamental and ancient part of human history.
Stop using makeup to contour; learn the ‘Chiaroscuro’ technique from Renaissance painters instead.
The Artist’s Contour
The modern contouring trend, with its harsh lines and stripes, can often look unnatural. A much more sophisticated approach can be learned from the masters of the Renaissance. They perfected the artistic technique of “chiaroscuro,” which is the use of strong contrasts between light and dark to create the illusion of three-dimensional volume on a two-dimensional surface. By thinking like a painter and using light (highlighter) and shadow (contour) in a soft, blended way, you can sculpt your face with a much more subtle and realistic artistry.
The #1 secret for healthy gums and white teeth from Ayurveda is oil pulling with coconut oil.
The Oil Pull
I was looking for a natural way to improve my oral health. The best secret I found comes from the ancient Indian tradition of Ayurveda: oil pulling. The practice involves swishing a tablespoon of an oil, like coconut or sesame oil, in your mouth for about 15-20 minutes on an empty stomach. The oil is thought to “pull” bacteria and toxins from the mouth. While it’s not a replacement for brushing, many people find that it helps to whiten teeth, strengthen gums, and improve their overall oral hygiene.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about beauty is that it is a new obsession.
The Ancient Obsession
We live in a world that feels completely saturated with beauty culture. It’s easy to think that our modern obsession with appearance is a new phenomenon. The lie is that this is anything new. From the elaborate makeup of the ancient Egyptians to the complex hairstyling of the Romans to the skin-whitening practices of the Elizabethans, humans have been preening, decorating, and altering their appearances for as long as we have had civilization. The tools and the trends change, but the fundamental human desire for beauty is ancient.
I wish I knew this about the ‘Flapper’ makeup of the 1920s and how it symbolized a social revolution.
The Flapper’s Face
I used to just think of the 1920s Flapper makeup—the dark, smoky eyes, the Cupid’s bow lip—as a fun, vintage style. I wish I had known how revolutionary it was. For the first time, makeup was not about looking “natural.” It was bold, it was dark, and it was worn out in public. It was a rejection of the demure, Victorian ideal. The Flapper’s face was a powerful symbol of women’s newfound social and political freedoms. It was the face of a rebellion.
I’m just going to say it: The ancient Greek gymnasium’s focus on the beauty of the athletic body is a wellness goal we should revive.
The Gymnasium’s Glory
Our modern gym culture is often focused on aesthetics—losing weight or building specific muscles to look a certain way. I’m just going to say it: the ancient Greek concept was so much better. The gymnasium was a place to train the body, but it was also about celebrating the beauty, strength, and grace of the athletic human form in motion. Their focus was on holistic health, on the harmony between the mind and a capable, powerful body. This is a wellness philosophy that feels so much more inspiring and healthy than our modern obsession with just the mirror.
99% of people make this one mistake when trying a traditional beauty recipe they found online.
The Context-Free Concoction
I’ll see a traditional beauty recipe online—like an ancient herbal rinse or a tribal face mask—and be excited to try it. The mistake almost everyone makes is to just copy the recipe without understanding the context. Why did that culture use that specific ingredient? Was it for a ceremony? Was it for a specific climate? Was it part of a larger, holistic practice? Ripping a single recipe out of its cultural context not only can lead to misuse, but it’s also a form of appropriation that ignores the deep wisdom and history behind the practice.
This one small habit of using a hydrosol or floral water will connect you to a beauty tradition that spans from Cleopatra to Marie Antoinette.
The Floral Water
Using a facial mist can feel like a very modern skincare step. But the simple habit of using a hydrosol, or floral water, connects you to a long and luxurious line of women throughout history. Cleopatra was said to have used rosewater in her beauty rituals. In the 18th century, Marie Antoinette used a famous facial toner that was based on orange blossom water. A spritz of one of these simple, natural waters is a way to participate in a beauty tradition that has been cherished by some of history’s most iconic women.
If you’re still chasing trends, you’re losing the elegance and power of a classic look, perfected over centuries.
The Classic’s Clout
The beauty world moves at a dizzying pace, with new trends every single week. If you are constantly chasing what’s new, you are missing out on the power of the classics. Think of the timeless elegance of a red lip, the simple sophistication of a French manicure, or the dramatic allure of a cat-eye. These looks are not trends; they are archetypes. They have survived for decades, or even centuries, for a reason. They are powerful, they are universally flattering, and they have a history that a fleeting trend can never match.
Use Baobab oil for its rich vitamin content, a treasure from the African “tree of life.”
The Tree of Life
I was looking for a new, nourishing facial oil and discovered the incredible benefits of Baobab oil. This oil is cold-pressed from the seeds of the Baobab tree, which is known in Africa as the “tree of life.” The oil is a powerhouse of nutrients, incredibly rich in vitamins A, D, E, and F, as well as Omega fatty acids. It’s a fantastic moisturizer that helps to improve skin elasticity and soothe dry, irritated skin. It’s a true, ancient treasure from one of the most majestic trees on the planet.
Stop using harsh lip plumpers; use a cinnamon oil blend, a trick known for centuries, instead.
The Cinnamon Kiss
I wanted fuller-looking lips, but the modern lip-plumping glosses I tried would often sting and burn. I found a much more natural, traditional solution. For centuries, people have known that cinnamon has a natural plumping effect. It works by stimulating blood flow to the area. I created my own gentle lip plumper by mixing a single, tiny drop of cinnamon essential oil into a bit of a carrier oil or my favorite lip balm. It gives my lips a subtle, temporary fullness without the harsh, irritating chemicals.
Stop thinking of beauty pageants as the only standard; look at the powerful adornments of the Wodaabe tribe’s Gerewol festival.
The Gerewol Gaze
Our culture often holds up the smiling, polished beauty pageant contestant as the pinnacle of female beauty. We need to broaden our horizons. Look to the Wodaabe people of Niger. During their annual Gerewol festival, it’s the men who are the center of the beauty contest. They spend hours on their elaborate makeup and costumes, with the goal of being chosen by the women. It’s a powerful reversal of the Western gaze and a stunning example of a culture that celebrates male beauty, artistry, and adornment in a way that is completely unique.
The #1 secret for a healthy scalp from Jamaican grandmothers is a hot oil treatment with castor oil.
The Hot Oil Heritage
I was dealing with a dry, itchy scalp and slow hair growth. The best secret I learned was not from a modern lab, but from the passed-down wisdom of Jamaican grandmothers. The tradition of a weekly hot oil treatment is a cornerstone of their hair care. They gently heat a rich, nourishing oil like Jamaican black castor oil and then meticulously massage it into the scalp. This stimulates blood flow, moisturizes the scalp, and strengthens the hair follicles. It’s a simple, time-honored ritual for profound scalp and hair health.
The biggest lie you’ve been told about natural beauty is that it requires no effort.
The Natural Myth
There’s a misconception that “natural beauty” means that you just wake up looking a certain way, with no effort involved. This is a lie. The women throughout history who were praised for their “natural” beauty were often engaged in very effortful and time-consuming rituals. They were making their own masks, preparing their own hair rinses, and following specific diets. And today, achieving that “natural,” healthy glow still requires the effort of a consistent skincare routine, a healthy lifestyle, and mindful self-care. It doesn’t just happen.
I wish I knew this about how Victorian women used nightshade (belladonna) to dilate their pupils for a more “beautiful” gaze.
The Belladonna Eyes
The Victorian era prized a look of demure, wide-eyed innocence. I wish I had known about one of their most dangerous beauty secrets for achieving this. Women would use eye drops made from a tincture of deadly nightshade, or “belladonna,” which literally translates to “beautiful woman.” The drops would dilate their pupils, creating a dark, luminous, captivating gaze. But belladonna is a highly toxic poison. It’s a chilling reminder that the pursuit of a fleeting beauty standard can sometimes lead people to take extreme and dangerous risks.
I’m just going to say it: A simple bar of Aleppo soap, with a recipe thousands of years old, is better than most modern body washes.
The Aleppo Advantage
I was overwhelmed by the endless aisles of modern body washes with their synthetic fragrances and long chemical ingredient lists. I decided to try something ancient. I’m just going to say it: a simple bar of Aleppo soap is one of the best cleansers in the world. This soap, which originated in Aleppo, Syria, has a recipe that is thousands of years old. It’s made with just olive oil and laurel oil. It’s incredibly gentle, moisturizing, and biodegradable. It cleanses the skin beautifully without any of the unnecessary, modern additives.
99% of people misunderstand the history behind the ‘beauty mark’ or ‘mouche’.
The Mark’s Meaning
We think of a beauty mark as just a simple dot of makeup. But in the 17th and 18th centuries in Europe, these “mouches,” or flies, were a complex form of silent communication. The placement of the patch on the face had a specific meaning. A patch near the eye meant you were passionate. A patch on the cheek meant you were flirtatious. And a patch near the lips meant you were looking for a kiss. They were not just for covering blemishes; they were a sophisticated, secret language of flirtation and social signaling.
This one small action of incorporating marula oil into your routine will give you the antioxidant benefits cherished in Southern Africa for ages.
The Marula Magic
I was looking for a facial oil that was both hydrating and packed with protective antioxidants. I discovered Marula oil, an ingredient that has been a cherished beauty secret in Southern African communities for centuries. This lightweight, luxurious oil is incredibly rich in antioxidants, even more so than argan oil. It absorbs beautifully into the skin, providing deep moisture and a powerful defense against environmental damage. It’s a perfect example of an ancient African ingredient that is now being recognized by modern skincare for its incredible benefits.
If you’re still buying into “newly discovered” miracle ingredients, you’re losing sight of the fact that most have been used by indigenous cultures for centuries.
The Discovery Deception
Every year, the beauty industry announces a “newly discovered” miracle botanical from some remote part of the world. It’s marketed as a revolutionary, exotic ingredient. But if you do a little research, you’ll find that these “new” ingredients, like Cacay oil from the Amazon or Kakadu plum from Australia, have been known and used for their powerful medicinal and beauty benefits by the indigenous cultures of those regions for thousands of years. It’s not a new discovery; it’s the wisdom of ancient cultures being repackaged and sold to you.