The Woman Beautiful by Helen Follett Jameson

[moussemaker]

Dear ladies, I would like to recommend this book to you.
You can read it online at http://www.gutenberg.org/files/23750/23750-h/23750-h.htm

TABLE OF CONTENTS

PAGE
The Complexion 9
Expression 14
Useless Beauty 16
Washing the Face 20
Facial Eruptions and Blackheads 23
Tan, Sunburn and Freckles 27
Complexion Powders 32
Wrinkles 35
Recipes for the Complexion 39
Care of the Hair 46
Dressing the Hair 56
Superfluous Hair 63
Recipes for the Hair 65
The Hands 68
Bathing the Hands 71
Care of the Finger Nails 73
Recipes for the Hands 75
The Eyes 79
The Girl Who Cries 83
The Eyelashes 86
The Eyebrows 86b
The Teeth 88
Bathing 93
Diet 100
Sleep 109
Exercise 114
Stooped Shoulders 125
Breathing 130
Massage 136
Dress 144
The Thin Girl 149
The Plump Girl 154
The Working Girl 161
The Nervous One 167
Perfumes 174

 

[Sincerely-Dee]

I'm always open to book recommendations and I've had a look. It seems quite comprehensive.

There's something about the author's tone though...

 

[deadpandiva]

I'll have to check that out. I must say that the chapters Useless Beauty and Superfluous Hair caught my eye.

 

[Tourbillion]

Some of the recipes look a bit dangerous. I don't know if I'll be using ammonia in my face wash any time soon.

Some ingredients are impossible to obtain, like spermaceti, since it is made from whales. You could substitute cetyl palmitate or jojoba esters if you can find any. Also, the cost of a dram of real violet essence means I won't be making any violet cold cream unless I win the lottery.

Interesting book though.