From chocolate masks to the Incan obsession with shiny, healthy hair, ancient civilizations knew a thing or two about beauty. Sure, we’ve got serums, lasers, and every kind of chemical peel imaginable today but some of those age-old beauty rituals might still have a place in our routines. Why not embrace the wisdom of the past to elevate your beauty? 

Japanese Rice Water for Hair and Skin

In Japan, women in the Heian period (794-1185) had hair that reportedly reached the floor, and their secret? Rice water. They would soak rice in water and use the starchy liquid to rinse their hair, making it shinier and stronger. 

Rice water is also great for the skin, acting as a gentle cleanser and toner that helps fade dark spots. This ancient beauty practice is easy, cost-effective, and making a comeback in beauty circles for good reason.

Aztec Exfoliation with Volcanic Ash

The Aztecs had their own version of exfoliation, using volcanic ash to slough off dead skin. This natural scrub is rich in minerals and can help clear out clogged pores while rejuvenating the skin. 

It’s like nature’s microdermabrasion! While we may have fancy exfoliators today, there’s something cool and primal about using volcanic ash as the Aztecs did.

Incan Hair Treatments with Quinoa

Before quinoa became the superfood trend of today, the Incas were already using it as part of their beauty routine. They applied quinoa-based treatments to their hair to keep it shiny, strong, and healthy. Rich in amino acids and protein, quinoa can repair damaged hair and even promote hair growth. 

Blend cooked quinoa with coconut oil, honey, and egg yolk for a deeply nourishing mask. Apply to hair, let sit for 20-30 minutes, then rinse. It restores moisture and repairs damage!

Milk Beauty

In ancient times, milk was a go-to beauty secret for staying youthful and glowing. Cleopatra, one of the most famous beauty icons of history, was said to bathe in donkey milk to keep her skin soft and radiant. The lactic acid in milk acts as a gentle exfoliant, removing dead skin cells and promoting cell renewal. 

@25 Unbelievable Ancient Beauty Hacks From History | Four Nine Looks/Four Nine/YouTube.com

Create a DIY face mask using plain yogurt or buttermilk. Apply it to your face for about 15-20 minutes before rinsing off with warm water. The lactic acid will help exfoliate and hydrate your skin, leaving it looking fresh and youthful.