Ancient Egypt vs Daily hygiene habits

CAIRO – 3 December 2017: Even today, Ancient Egyptians captivate the minds of people around the globe for their extraordinary contributions to civilization. Egypt Today presents top facts about daily hygiene habits in Ancient Egypt.

Prominent historian Herodotus narrated that ancient Egyptians made sure to clean their cups, glasses and plates used for food and drink. “They [wore] linen garments, which they were especially careful to have always freshly washed. They practiced circumcision for the sake of cleanliness, considering it better to be cleanly than comely,” he explained.

Based on the writings of Herodotus, Ancient Egyptians used many healthy hygiene habits, such as washing, and laundry. They also knew to use mint to make their breath fresh.

According to Ancient History Online Encyclopedia, Ancient Egyptians always tried to make their bodies clean. They were the first to invent deodorant in history, which they did through mixing various spices, such as citrus and cinnamon.


Toilet Box [Photo Courtesy: Jean – Pierre Dalbera]

Ancient Egyptians also took great care of their skin and hair, using natural oils and herbs to make creams. Moreover, saints shaved their hair to ensure hair infections do not harm them; they favored wearing wigs.

Made from flowers, roots, herbs, and other natural elements, Egyptians managed to create different body perfumes.


Ancient Egyptian Cosmetics Case [Photo Courtesy: Metropolitan Museum of Art]

Woman in ancient Egypt were icons of beauty, and were amongst the earliest to introduce make up to the world. Ancient Egyptian women were known for their thickly lined eyelids and red lipstick, an iconic look to this very day. They also dyed their hair with different natural materials such as henna.

According to historian and archaeologist Hazem El Kereety, Ancient Egyptians were the first to invent toothbrush and toothpaste 5,000 years ago.


Ancient Egyptian cosmetics [Photo Courtesy: Metropolitan Museum of Art]