How Women Made Their Skin Glow in 1800
Sweety Karlak
The 1800s were a fascinating time for beauty. Without modern serums, retinol, or luxury moisturizers, women relied on natural ingredients, simple routines, and old-world wisdom to achieve radiant skin. While some practices were genuinely effective, others were unusual—and a few were downright dangerous! Here’s a look at how women made their skin glow in the 19th century.
1. Cold Water Cleansing
One of the simplest and most common beauty tips in the 1800s was splashing the face with cold water. It was believed to tighten pores, stimulate circulation, and keep the complexion fresh. Many women cleansed their face several times a day, especially in warm climates.
2. Rosewater for Toner and Hydration
Rosewater was the hero ingredient of the century. Women used it as:
a toner
a perfume
a cooling spray
a treatment for irritated skin
It helped soften the complexion, calm redness, and give the skin a delicate glow.
3. Milk Baths & Milk Cleansing
Milk was considered an elite beauty secret. Wealthier women (and sometimes actresses) used milk baths or milk-soaked cloths to:
brighten skin
soften texture
reduce dryness
The lactic acid in milk provided gentle exfoliation—something science later confirmed.
4. Honey Masks
Beekeeping was common, so honey was widely available. Women applied it as a mask to:
moisturize
soothe irritation
give a natural glow
Honey’s antibacterial properties made it particularly helpful for blemish-prone skin.
5. Almond Oil & Olive Oil Moisturizers
Oils were among the safest and most effective moisturizers of the era. Almond oil and olive oil were rubbed onto the face at night to nourish dry skin and keep the complexion supple.
6. Lemon Juice for Brightening
Lemon juice was used as a natural skin “lightener” and spot treatment. Women believed it brightened the complexion, though it could be harsh and irritating. Still, it was one of the most popular glow-boosting hacks of the time.
7. Oatmeal for Exfoliation
Oatmeal and oat flour were used to cleanse and gently exfoliate the skin. Women mixed it with water or milk to create a soft paste that left the skin smooth and refreshed.
8. Herb Infusions
Women brewed herbs and used them on their skin the way we use toners or face mists. Popular choices included:
chamomile for calming
lavender for softening
mint for cooling
Herbal steam baths also helped cleanse pores and improve circulation.
9. Staying Indoors to Protect Skin
A “glowing complexion” in the 1800s meant pale, smooth skin—a sign of status and femininity. Women avoided sun exposure almost obsessively through:
wide-brimmed bonnets
parasols
gloves
veils
Sunburn or sun damage was seen as unattractive and unfeminine.
10. Lead- and Mercury-Based Products (Dangerous!)
Not all routines were safe. Some women used:
lead-based powders for a porcelain finish
mercury creams to fade spots
These made the skin look smooth temporarily—but were extremely toxic and caused long-term health problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Did women in the 1800s really use natural ingredients for skincare?
Yes. Most people relied on plants, oils, and kitchen staples because commercial products were not widely accessible.
2. Was makeup common in the 1800s?
It was used, but discreetly. Heavy makeup was associated with actresses or “loose” women, so skincare was more acceptable than cosmetics.
3. Did women actually take milk baths?
Yes—wealthy women did. Others used smaller amounts of milk on cloths or mixed with water for cleansing.
4. Was sun protection a big deal?
Absolutely. Pale skin symbolized wealth, so women wore hats, gloves, and carried parasols to avoid tanning.
5. Did women know lead and mercury were dangerous?
Not fully. Some suspected, but most didn’t understand the long-term risks.
6. What was the most popular beauty ingredient?
Rosewater. It served as fragrance, skincare, and a cooling tonic.
7. Did women exfoliate in the 1800s?
Yes—mainly using oatmeal or finely ground nuts.
8. How did women deal with acne?
Honey, lemon juice, and herbal treatments were common. Some also used sulfur powder or vinegar.
9. What did glowing skin mean in the 1800s?
It meant pale, smooth, and youthful—not tanned. Bright, porcelain-like skin was ideal.
10. Are any 1800s skincare methods still useful today?
Yes! Rosewater, honey masks, oatmeal cleansers, and cold water rinses are still gentle, effective practices.
