Powdered Hair: A Guide to the 18th Century Hairstyle Trend

The 18th century witnessed the rise of powdered hair as a fashionable and luxurious hairstyle among both men and women. This elaborate style involved the use of flour, starch, or other powders to create a white or grey appearance.

Understanding Powdered Hair 18th Century

History: Powdered hair gained popularity in the mid-17th century, originating in France and quickly spreading to other European countries. It was seen as a symbol of status and wealth, as only those who could afford the expensive process of powdering their hair wore it.

Process: The hair was first washed and then greased with pomade. A mixture of powder and flour was then applied to the hair, using a special brush or puff. The powder would absorb excess oil and give the hair a white or grey color.

Styling: Powdered hair was often styled into elaborate wigs, which were adorned with accessories such as ribbons, flowers, and jewels. Both men and women wore powdered wigs, with men favoring shorter, more formal styles, while women's wigs were often more elaborate and decorative.

Benefits of Powdered Hair 18th Century

Fashionable: Powdered hair was the height of fashion in the 18th century, and it was worn by all members of the upper classes. It was seen as a sign of sophistication and refinement.

Hygienic: Powdering the hair helped to absorb excess oil and dirt, which made it less greasy and easier to manage. In a time when regular bathing was not common, powdered hair was a way to maintain a sense of cleanliness.

Status Symbol: Powdered hair was expensive to maintain, so it quickly became a status symbol. Only those who could afford to powder their hair regularly were able to do so.

Challenges of Powdered Hair 18th Century

Time-Consuming: The process of powdering hair was time-consuming and could take several hours. This made it difficult for those who had busy lifestyles to maintain the style.

Costly: Powdering hair was expensive, as it required a significant amount of powder and other materials. This made it inaccessible to those who could not afford the cost.

Health Concerns: The use of lead in some powdered hair products raised concerns about its safety. Lead is a toxic metal, and exposure to it can lead to various health problems.

Success Stories

Marie Antoinette: The French queen was known for her elaborate powdered wigs, which were adorned with feathers, flowers, and jewels. Her hairstyles were often over-the-top, but they represented the height of fashion at the time.

George Washington: The first President of the United States was known for his powdered hair, which he wore in a pompadour style. His hair was often powdered white and tied back in a queue.

Thomas Jefferson: The third President of the United States was also a fan of powdered hair. He wore his hair in a bobbed style, which was less formal than Washington's pompadour.

FAQs About Powdered Hair 18th Century

Was powdered hair dangerous to health?

Yes, some powdered hair products contained lead, which is a toxic metal. Exposure to lead can cause various health problems.

How often was powdered hair washed?

Powdered hair was not washed regularly, as it would remove the powder and ruin the style. Instead, it was brushed and powdered between washes.

Was powdered hair comfortable to wear?

Powdered hair could be uncomfortable to wear, as it could be heavy and itchy. It was also difficult to sleep in powdered hair, which is why many people wore nightcaps to protect their wigs.

Powdered Hair: A Guide to the 18th Century Hairstyle Trend