The traditional depiction of Nefertiti shows the ancient Egyptian love of make-up, while tales of Cleopatra’s bathing habits support their use of a skincare regime. What might be less well known, however, is the attention the ancient Egyptians paid to their hair. Evidence shows that possession of a full head of hair was associated with youth and vigour. Both men and women, particularly in the upper classes, used hair extensions, and some shaved their heads completely and simply wore a wig. Then, as now, hair loss was also an issue, and a range of treatments existed to promote hair growth, from covering bald patches with chopped lettuce leaf to massaging a combination of castor oil and almond oil into the scalp. Grey hair was also dealt with; papyri have been found that detail the use of juniper oil, extracted from berries and wood, to cover up grey. It is also said to promote a healthy scalp, treat dandruff and moisturise hair.
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