Many of the techniques and practices we still use today have been used for centuries to keep skin clear, hair strong, and complexions beautiful. While technology has advanced modern skincare to places the Ancients could never have imagined, it is still interesting to look back and see what the elixirs of youth and beauty were in ancient times.

PALE SKIN - in ancient times, having pale skin meant that you had the luxury of staying indoors and not have to toil under the hot sun. Today, spending time in the sunshine and outdoors is a luxury. While both pale and tan skin are on trend, its important to use sunscreen, a relatively modern invention, to keep skin healthy. 

POWDER- in the 19th century, powder makeup was introduced as a way for women to cover blemishes and freckles. Originally made from things like rice powder or pearl powder (which was very expensive), today we have a variety of powders to choose from that do different things. 

SAFFRON OIL - according to records, Cleopatra would  use saffron oil in her milk baths to achieve an extra glow. This practice is still used by some Indian and Moroccan women to help balance hormones and improve complexion.

SEA SALT - To achieve their firm and smooth complexions, Geishas in ancient Japan would mix sea salt with whipped cream (not the kind in the aerosol bottles) and massage their faces with it while bathing. Today, sea salt is still an ingredient in many scrubs, though is considered by many to be too course and harsh for the face. 

ROSEWATER - originating in the markets of ancient Egypt, this was used frequently in both desserts and skincare. It makes a great toner, a fact that has brought it back into popularity (and the beauty aisles of stores) in recent months. 

COCONUT OIL - most of us have come to worship at the church of coconut oil at one point or another. Throughout history, women in South Asia have counted it as their beauty secret for achieving long and healthy hair, as well as glowing skin. Coconut oil is found everywhere these days and can be used for everything from hair deep conditioning to removing waterproof makeup.