The Bizarre and Dangerous Beauty Trends of Ancient Times

Figure Contests

Before wet t-shirt contests were a thing, women would participate in "figure competitions." These competitions were judged by men and the winner was deemed to have the "neatest figure." Women wore bags over their heads to conceal their identities.  

Skin Ionization

This particular method might seem terrifying, but it's still conducted today. This device is called an electric cathiodermie machine, it creates a low electrical current that can help improve circulation in one's face, giving a more youthful look. 

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The More You Know

  • Tic Tac mints are named after the sound their container makes.
  • Arkansas hosts the annual World Championship Duck Calling Contest.
  • Where the Wild Things Are was supposed to have been about horses—but the illustrator couldn't draw them.
  • Nutella was invented during WWII, when an Italian pastry maker mixed hazelnuts into chocolate to extend his chocolate ration.
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Post originally appeared on Upbeat News.