It’s easy to believe that modern culture is more image-obsessed than ever before (especially when you scroll through beauty trends on Instagram and TikTok), but that’s not the case. Women have been subjecting themselves to all kinds of weird beauty treatments for as long as civilization has existed. We're going to examine some of the weirdest beauty rituals that women have turned to throughout history, as well as some modern beauty trends that might inspire you or be remembered in years to come — or just leave you simply scratching your head.
Beauty trends and rituals throughout history
2023 beauty trends: Here to stay?
New beauty trends are being rolled out every day. Will these stand the test of time, or will we look back on them as just weird beauty rituals of the past?
Cosmetic tattoos
Beauty treatments like permanent eyeliner, microblading, and powder effects all come under the banner of cosmetic tattooing, says makeup expert Carla Riccadone, co-founder of Sculpted Studios in New York City.
“Permanent makeup is also known as cosmetic tattooing. It is a tattoo treatment that artists use to create subtle and natural enhancements to your facial features, or for the bold seekers, it can mimic the bolder makeup looks. The most commonly treated areas are lips, brows, and eyes,” Riccadone explained to Mom.com.
Riccadone advises those considering one of these beauty treatments to do their homework. “It is imperative to research and see the healed work of the artist you choose; video is best. Even though your color will soften over time, it is permanent, just like a tattoo, and anyone who may tell you differently doesn’t have the proper experience to know better,” she cautioned.
Freezing facial
According to Vogue magazine, “the best way to brighter, tighter skin” is a cryotherapy facial: a dermatologist's office or skin spa procedure where a client’s face is exposed to extremely cold vaporized nitrogen (as cold -200℉ to -300℉) for two to three minutes.
“Cryotherapy has been used in some form for millennia to improve health and wellness. Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans used cold water immersion for pain relief and the treatment of various medical conditions,” Alina Mehrle, creator of Ameon, a line of home cryotherapy products, told Mom.com.
