A Toxic Element Was Used In The Production Of Kohl
Black kohl was not always manufactured of non-toxic materials. Queen Elizabeth I used a preparation made of powdered antimony in the 1550s, a metallic chemical element known to produce rashes if skin is exposed for an extended period of time. And that’s only the start! Her Majesty would also apply nightshade eyedrops to enlarge her pupils and give her eyes a dewy appearance. Unfortunately, nightshade is toxic!
There Was One Thing That Wasn’t Toxic
Fortunately, Queen Elizabeth I’s beauty regimen did not always include hazardous chemicals that were slowly aging her. She also like very thin and arched brows, which she plucks to achieve the ideal look. Her signature ruby-red lips and cheeks were made from plant dye and beeswax, a long cry from the lead, mercury, and kohl she employed on her eyes and face. But, with her beautiful white paint and scarlet lips, Queen Elizabeth became quite the fashion icon!