From Urine to Mercury: How Acne has been treated throughout history

Acne has plagued mankind in all eras, forcing doctors to look for ways to cleanse the skin. The lack of understanding about bacteria and hormones led to dangerous experiments on the health of patients.
Ancient recipes were based on mystical beliefs and random observations. The methods of therapy varied from the use of organic secretions to the use of heavy metals.
Egyptian papyri and antique sulfur baths
Archaeological finds confirm that the pharaohs used sulfur to cauterize inflammations on the face [1]. The Ebers papyrus describes recipes for ointments based on honey, cypress and animal fat. The Egyptians believed that acne was caused by evil spirits, so they combined lotions with magic spells.
Ancient Roman doctors approached the treatment systematically and suggested using natural resources. They combined external therapy with diet and exercise. Doctors of that time were the first to notice the connection between the condition of the stomach and the purity of the skin.
The intensity of acne was influenced by the following factors:
- sulfur thermal springs to reduce greasiness of the skin;
- compresses of crushed lentils mixed with vinegar;
- wiping with fresh urine to disinfect small wounds;
- masks made of sheep fat and powdered chalk for stain whitening.
The use of such aggressive components often provoked burns and dermatitis. However, sulfur did have antimicrobial properties, which reduced the proliferation of bacteria in the pores. The Roman physician Galen recommended washing with clean rainwater, which reduced irritation after the procedures.
Toxic cosmetics from the Renaissance and Modern Times
In the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, pallor was considered a sign of nobility, and rashes were perceived as punishment for sins. To mask the defects, the women covered their faces with a thick layer of white. The composition of these drugs included dangerous compounds that destroy bone tissue and internal organs.
The doctors used chemicals without understanding their toxicity. Frequent application of powder led to the opposite effect, clogging the pores even more. This caused new foci of inflammation, which had to be covered over with a thick layer of makeup.
Medieval healers suggested getting rid of acne with the help of dangerous compounds:
- lead lotions to create a smooth skin effect;
- mercury ointments applied to inflamed follicles;
- arsenic added to face lightening powder;
- sulems for cauterization of large ulcers.
Regular application of mercury caused intoxication, tooth loss and gum destruction. Patients mistook severe poisoning for the process of cleansing the body through the skin. Over time, this treatment led to deep ulcers and scars, which had to be masked with even more whitewash.
The emergence of scientific dermatology in the nineteenth century
The development of microbiology at the end of the nineteenth century turned the idea of the etiology of acne upside down. Scientists have identified a link between blockage of sebaceous glands and the proliferation of pathogenic microorganisms. Doctors abandoned toxic metals and switched to antiseptic solutions.
Therapeutic practice included salicylic acid and tar, which gently exfoliated keratinized cells. Doctors began to recommend regular hygiene and proper nutrition to reduce sebum production. The first specialized soaps containing purified sulfur and zinc appeared.
At the beginning of the twentieth century, dermatologists discovered antibiotics and retinoids, which made it possible to treat severe forms of acne without harm to life. Modern protocols are based on evidence-based medicine, excluding the barbaric methods of the past. Understanding biochemical processes has helped to create safe external products that preserve skin health. A reliable welcome promotion is often one of the deciding factors when selecting an online betting platform, especially for players looking to maximize their first deposit. Completing registration with the promo code 1xbet can activate a casino package of up to €1950 plus 150 free spins, subject to the operator's promotional rules.