Romans in 100 AD used sheep fat and blood on their fingernails for polish. And in the 1300s, English woman wore egg whites over their faces to create the appearance of a paler complexion. Since then, cosmetics have come a long way and are a lot less "icky" than they were back then. However, there are several products that are made of the really bizarre ingredients—below.
1. Cochineal beetles
When these bugs are full of cactus juice they are boiled, dried out, and crushed into "carmine." It's used in some red lipsticks and blushes to create gorgeous shades.
Becca in Beach Tint - $25
2. Snail mucus
It sounds absolutely disgusting, but snail mucus contains a group of proteins rich in amino acids that hold water to create softer skin. It's used in lots of anti-aging creams and is completely safe.
Mizon All-In-One Snail Repair Cream - $38
3. Bird poop
As weird as it sounds, the makeup of bird poop moisturizes skin and creates a gorgeous glow. Since birds only have one orfice for both urine and feces, the combination creates an amazing (and yes, slightly gross) ingredients for face products.
The Geisha Facial at New York's Shizuka Spa - $180
4. Placenta
Extracts from human and animal placenta are used in certain products to strengthen the skin and hair. It's loaded with proteins, but also hormones, which means it can increase breast cancer so caution must be used!
Hask Placenta No Rinse Hair Repair Treatment - $3.96
5. Bee venom
When the product is applied, blood rushes to the area, stimulating production of collagen and elastin. It contains enzymes and peptides used to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, but be prepared to pay big bucks!
Rodial Bee Venom Serum - $200
6. Wool grease
Don't worry... no animals are harmed in the extraction of wool grease! Also known as lanolin, wool grease has sebum (just like human skin) that moisturizes and has amazing healing properties.
Bite Beauty Agave Lip Mask - $26
Would you try any of these strange products, collegiettes?