Poisoned by make up

I have written before about the role make up plays in me having alopecia. Before I suffered from hair loss, I was more of a Au natural girl, but now I am "I wouldn't leave the house without it on" type.

I don't think too much about the shift, I do however sometimes wish for the ease of leaving the house without any face paint on, but that's the extent of my regret.

Whilst listening to my daily podcast from BBC4 which I love, I was listening to the life of Queen Elizabeth I. When it comes to history, well lets say, thank goodness for google. I have never displayed a passion for the subject nor embarrassingly enough an interest, but some things do trigger my curiosity. And I do love a good story.

The article I was listening to was more about her death. She died on 24 March 1603 and at that time causes of death were not always known. This was also the case with this particular queen. There is much speculation as to what caused her death. The theory that seems to attract the most likelihood, is that she died from blood poisoning. Not the evil poisoning type, when it was the servant trying to bump her off, to steal her jewels, but more of a silent poisoning from her make up. 

At that time it was very fashionable to have a white face. The way to achieve this look was through "ceruse" which was a product made from white lead, mixed with vinegar.

Queen Elizabeth I was apparently very fond of this look and layered the white powder on frequently over many years. It is said that this intense usage, slowly poisoned her and as a result of this continued usage, she eventually died.

To think that death by make up, is not even a slight consideration today. When we head over to the cosmetic counter, the extent if my thought is "what colour" or "which brand".

So next time when I am out purchasing a new foundation or a bright new lipstick, I will ask the lovely, smiling sales assistant, what ingredients are in the product. Even if it is just to see the response of the salesperson. I mean a girl doesn't want to get poisoned does she?

If I am assured there is no lead in the product, I might just buy it!