Women would get X-ray facials to treat acne in the early 20th century
Throughout history, women have turned to all sorts of dangerous methods to conform to society’s beauty standards. In the Roman Empire and later in 16th century Europe, lead-based foundations were popular and were often used to lighten the complexion. During the early 20th century, radiation was all the rage.
Some women began to get X-ray facials to keep acne away. In England, radium-based creams that also claimed to “energize” the skin were quite popular. During the 1930s, X-rays were also used for hair removal. It was already known that exposure to high radiation levels could cause adverse effects, but it did not matter.