Caroline Dubois – Capa Drama / Banijay Studios France / Les Gens / Canal+ via PBS
In accordance with the make-up artist, the cosmetics would also turn out to be useful for an additional purpose, which she said would help “mask conditions”.
On the time, cosmetics were formulated with lead, a toxic metal known to cause hypertension, kidney damage and other health problems. World Health ORganisation. Specifically, the most well-liked skin whitening agent used amongst royalty and other aristocrats was the so-called Venetian Ceruse or Spirits of Saturn. A lead-based product would depart the wearer with scars, spots, and disfigurement, in order that they applied more layers to the face to cover their imperfections. Thus making a vicious circle.
Marie’s devotion to beauty went beyond face painting, nevertheless.
In her research, Mathilde discovered that the Empress had invented her own elixirs, creating the famous Eau Cosmetique de Pigeon face wash – “which, yes, was created using the bird itself,” said the make-up artist. “In accordance with Toilet of Health, Beauty and Fashionthe recipe included the juice of water lilies, melons, cucumbers and lemons, in addition to breadcrumbs, white wine and stewed pigeons.
Marie then toned her skin with Eau des Charmes, an astringent mask made out of drops secreted by vines in May.
“Her signature face mask, which continues to be popular in France,” Mathidle noted, “was made with two teaspoons of cognac to stimulate circulation, 1/3 cup of powdered milk, brightening lemon juice, and one egg white.”