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Unknown Facts are curiosities revealing little-known, surprising, or rarely discussed information from the world of ancient Rome and antiquity. This category includes unusual details, curiosities, and facts that offer a less obvious perspective on the Roman Empire.
A qualified hairdresser (tonsor) in Rome could make a career and earn good money. It should be noted, however, that shaving was not very pleasant and easy at the time. The Romans used much worse steel than we do today, and it has often happened that the razor (novacula) quickly blunted. In addition to shaving, cutting and waxing, hairdressers also offered the removal of individual facial hair with tweezers (volsella).
Roman women lubricated their faces with lead paste, which whitened their skin (pallor was extremely fashionable). Lead has often been used as a sweetener and food preservative. It is believed that using a large amount of defrutum (sweet wine) badly affected the health of the Romans. However, it should be mentioned that in ancient times no one knew about the harmful meaning of this element.
Most people talk about Roman fun and entertainment, paying particular attention to gladiator fights, libraries, theatre, etc. The above-mentioned entertainments were undoubtedly of great value to the ancient Romans, but they took place only once in a while. So how did they fill this waiting time?
