Lovely Victoriana's Beauty Secrets To keep any unpleasant body odors away, ladies of the Victorian era would have used an easy-to-make rose or lavender talc for their under arms. This talc is also still used today by ladies who may have skin sensitivities. It smells beautiful and works considerably well. Rose Petal or Lavender talc All you need is a little cornstarch and some fresh rose petals or lavender sprigs mixed together in a little container. ----------------------- Floral and Herbal waters were also used in the Victorian days and throughout history. They are simple to make and, depending on the ingredients you decide to use, they may have antiseptic qualities or be astringent and induce a sense of calm and give your spirits a lift. You can use "relaxing" flowers such as lavender, rose and chamomile or "stimulating" herbs such as clove, cinnamon, lemon or rosemary. The choice is all yours. These waters are used to pamper the skin. Just mist your face with this fragrant dew every morning and your day will be off to a perfect start! Here is one simply lovely recipe to try: Green Geranium Water Pour 2 1/2 cups of boiling water over three 3/4-inch stems of scented lemon-rose geraniums and a small handful of calendula flowers (fresh or dried). Steep till liquid is cool, then strain. Add to water 4 drops rose geranium oil and a couple of fresh geranium leaves or calendula flowers. ----------------------- If you love the fragrance of roses, then you will love this next recipe. This rose perfume will leave you smelling and feeling as beautiful as a lady from the Victorian era. Rose Perfume In a small bottle, combine the following ingredients. 1/2 teaspoon alcohol 6 drops essential oil of rose 3 drops essential oil of geranium 8 drops essential oil of sandalwood 2 drops essential oil of rosewood Shake thoroughly, and allow to mellow and age for about one week. HOME