Care and Ti RL ^^^Hk^H£DB^^X^^^h^S^1Ru^^9 Class _TLLsa Book J^_ Gopyright^N . <* COPYRIGHT DEPOSIT. o Figure 1. A Task before Retiring. THE SKIN Its Care and Treatment BY EMILY LLOYD Teaching every detail of this important work, in a simple, concise and practical manner SECOND EDITION Re-written and Greatly Enlarged Mcintosh Battery & Optical Company CHICAGO LIBRARY of CONGRESS Two Copies deceived FEB a? 1905 Copyngni unify CLASS CL XXc. N« f COPY 8. Copyright, 1904 McIntosh Battery & Optical Co ^ DEDICATION To the earnest student who realizes the vital need for thorough instruction in the important work of caring for the skin, this book is affectionately dedicated. That the experience of years may have been sufficient to make this volume a trusty guide to others who are but com- mencing their work, is the ardent wish of the author. In this second edition we have added many new full- page illustrations, and have made such valuable revision and amplification as will assure its gracious welcome by the many who wish correct information on the care of the Skin and Scalp. INTRODUCTION, The desire to understand the best manner of caring for the skin, and what materials to use in this work, is one that has become very generally acknowledged by intelligent women within the past five years. Before this time, al- though perhaps quite as many were interested, there was an impression that a poor complexion could not be improved, while a good one needed nothing to preserve its beauty. The first wrinkle was greeted as a natural consequence, even though it appeared at twenty-five in one woman, ten years later in another, and perhaps during school days in another. Crow's feet were expected, and came obligingly, quite pre- pared to remain. The yellow tinge, so disastrous to the blonde, was immediately labeled as liver trouble, and all of these defects allowed to become chronic afflictions instead of being temporary blemishes. To the best dermatologists, much of this misapprehension is due, for, engrossed by the study and treatment of strange eczemas, obscure skin eruptions and malignant growths, these other matters have seemed so trifling that they have either neglected to pay any attention to this branch, or given advice so carelessly that the patients had not confidence enough in the results to attempt the work. These so-called trifles often make or mar a woman's happiness, and instead of being laughingly told that she is foolish to attempt to defer the coming of old age, and the appearance of the many folds and the sallow skin, she should be assured that the beauty of any skin may be preserved indefinitely with proper care, while poor complexions may be made wonder- fully better. in iv INTRODUCTION. The careful housewife is well aware that constant at- tention is necessary if she would keep her home attractive. This same rule applies to the care of the face and the body. It has been the aim of the author to explain to women that if they would obtain the desired results, there must not only be the necessary applications, but also sufficient attention to the diet, the daily bath, and the proper exercise. The maiden should be instructed not only what to do for the skin, but also what to avoid. The wise mother realizes this, and copies the method of the successful gardener. As he with pruning knife and shears clips away the weakening tendrils, and plucks out weeds that threaten to hamper the growth of the vine, so must she watchfully tear away dis- agreeable peculiarities and weed out harmful habits if she would see the tender bud develop into the glorious blos- som. Instead of being discouraged in the practice of the little vanities so natural to the heart of the young girl, she should be wisely directed, and carefully instructed in the anatomy of the skin, its possibilities and its limitations. The average maiden has an ardent desire to be beautiful. Every heroine she can remember from the "Sleeping Princess" of her childhood days to the mysterious and fascinating produc- tion of the modern novelist, has been as enchanting as the writer's pen could make her. Naturally, she, too, dreams of becoming a vision so bewildering that all shall adore her, and seeks impatiently for the aid that shall transform her. Denied the sympathy she craves at home, she will wander forth intent only on her mission, and thus too often becomes the prey of unscrupulous "semi-professionals, " who make impossible promises and charge outrageous prices for harmful work. The awakening from an experience of this kind is bitter INTRODUCTION. v indeed and the result is seen in the soured and suspicious women who doubt the existence of real benefit in anything pertaining to the care of the skin. They will not only re- fuse to be coaxed into trying remedies themselves, but also use their influence to persuade their friends that all such work is useless. The only argument to be used against the endeavors of people of this type is the very conclusive one of proving to them what may be accomplished by em- ploying simple, natural methods. There are in reality very few hopelessly plain women. Care will perform wonders for any one, and the earlier in life this lesson is learned the better for the student. The girl with the Rocky Mountain features, sandy hair and freckles may make herself positively repulsive by pull- ing her hair tightly back and fastening it in a tight knot at the back of her head, exposing herself with no protection to the skin, in all kinds of weather, and finally by degenerating into a round-shouldered, bony picture of "despair. A little attention, a few words of advice, wise direction, and be- hold, a willowy, smiling vision, the really fine hair loosely coiled about the head, softening the outline of the features, the complexion soft and beautiful as a result of the neces- sary exertion morning and evening. Contentment has re- placed morbid dissatisfaction and a spirit of good fellow- ship impels her to help others to learn what may be done for them. The swarthy maiden with heavy, black, bristling brows meeting in a point over the center of the nose, dull, color- less complexion, awkward, ambling gait and oily, coarse skin, is quite as desperate until she learns that the electric needle will permanently remove the point ; tiny scissors trim the bristles into the delicate arch, proper care, refine and bleach the skin. Practice in physical culture will soon en- vi INTRODUCTION. tirely change the carriage, and if under all this care the color does not appear, a harmless tint may be employed, and behold a different creature, her black eyes glowing with hap- piness, her presence breathing of good health. The nondescript damsel, with eyes, hair and complexion that seem to have been selected from a jumble and thrown carelessly at her, has the most difficult time of all. A little study will enable her to find the style she should adopt, and then she must work accordingly. Invisible eyebrows may be coaxed into a well defined line, the fiery freckles frightened away by the use of ointments, the figure will develop aston- ishingly under proper -work, and in short the "ugly duck- ling" will disappear and graciously give place to the beau- tiful swan. So instances may be multiplied, in which a little knowl- edge has been of inestimable benefit to those who by im- proved appearance may alter the conditions of their life. Nature's failures are too numerous to convince the student that "whatever is, is right." She must learn to discriminate, and must resolve to spare no effort toward repairing de- fects that may exist, as well as to use discretion in preserv- ing the perfect skin that is occasionally found. Love of the beautiful is natural and universal, and those who have not the good fortune to be born with all the attributes neces- sary to the perfect type, may at least stretch out their hands toward the aids that may enable them to remedy the grav- est faults, remembering always, that with health as a foun- dation, common sense as an aid, and perseverance to inspire, the results will indeed be satisfactory. When it has been possible to know of these facts in youth, so much the better. If not there is still hope, for the clever woman realizes that as she grows older she improves mentally. Ripened by experience, at no time is her intel- INTRODUCTION. vii lect more powerful, her wit keener, nor her judgment better than after she has passed the half century mark. Physiological development has enabled her to maintain the erect carriage, full chest and well proportioned figure of her youth, and she now sees as never before the impor- tance of the daily work, which, properly employed, will ban- ish the lines traced by the gathering years, prevent the wast- ing of the tissues and preserve the contour and firm tex- ture of the skin. The power of beauty is universally acknowledged. In all countries, in all ages and by all types of men, poets and warriors, artists and statesmen, susceptible striplings and phlegmatic business men, alike testify to the potent influence of this wonderful gift. It has been perhaps due to a realization of this fact that so many women have despaired, for after beholding the loveliness of others they who were but meagerly endowed with charms so lavishly bestowed upon more fortunate rivals felt that it was useless to persevere in work which could but make them less repulsive. To women of this type the certainty of improvement so great as to be well worth while has been a wonderful stimulus. And as a con- sequence the shrinking, self conscious and unattractive wom- an of thirty-five has often been developed into a social power before she has reached forty. The mere realization of her success so fills her with quiet joy that she unconscious- ly inspires her associates with an ambition to follow her example. A wise man once remarked "that to satisfy others one must be self-satisfied." This statement is indeed true and should stimulate the negligent into an effort to make the most of opportunities. The young girl should labor unceas- ingly to obtain the degree of perfection to which her very viii INTRODUCTION. youth entitles her. The woman of thirty may have se- cured her knowledge later in life, but still not too late to know that by sufficient care she may postpone the appear- ance of age for years to come. Older women must be con- vinced that much may be done toward repairing the damages wrought by neglect and carelessness, and all women should be persuaded that it is quite as essential to devote a certain amount of time each day to personal attention as it is to waste hours in foolish gossip, embroidering useless doilies, or in caring for expensive ornaments. The chief ornament of any home is the woman who presides over it, and she should be ambitious enough to realize the importance of work that will aid her to preserve the charms she has, as well as to assist her in acquiring those she may be without. CONTENTS. PAGE CHAPTER I.— The Appearance of the Normal Skin 15 The necessity for the use of pure soaps and oils. The ef- fect of irritation upon the scarf skin. Experiment in skin grafting. CHAPTER II.— Why Creams are Necessary 20 Value as a protecting agent. Use of ointments among the ancients. Requirements of the skin. The folly of using any substitute in place of a pure oil. CHAPTER III.— The Manufacture of Creams 24 Necessary equipment. How to recognize the pure oils. Recipes for making creams. CHAPTER IV.— Wrinkles, and What Causes Them 34 The presence of habit lines explained. Cosmetics and mechanical appliances to be used with discretion. Best manner of preventing lines of age. CHAPTER V.— Why we Massage 39 The ideal masseuse, and her method of work. How often massage should be taken. How to prepare the face for massage. Value of cleansing the skin thoroughly. How to massage. CHAPTER VI.— How to Massage 55 Why there is one system of work. Manner of using the fingers. Length of treatments. Use of the water massage. Elec- tric vibratile and mallets as valuable adjuncts to the fingers. How to apply an astringent. CHAPTER VII.— Blackheads, Pimples and Milia 64 Absolute assurance of success in most loathsome cases when proper precautions are taken. Cause of blackheads. How to use the comedone extractor. Method of opening pimples. Cleansing the cavities, and after treatment. Use of the negative needles to obstinate cases. ix x CONTENTS. PAGE CHAPTER VIII.— Diet and Directions for Home Work in Cure of Blackheads, Pimples, Etc 75 Manner of treating oily skins. Use of green soap. Importance of proper diet, exercise and bathing. Importance of persistent efforts. How to proceed in removal of milia. Use of the gal- vanic current, followed by water massage in every case. CHAPTER IX.— Chloasma 82 Application of powerful remedies for purpose of bleaching the skin a mistake. Value of mild treatments aided by electricity. Manner of treatment. Use of dioxide of hydrogen as a bleaching agent. CHAPTER X.— Oily, Stippled and Sallow Skins 88 Advisability of thoroughly cleansing the skin of face and body daily. Suggestions as to diet. Use of mask for refining the skin. Best method of whitening muddy complexion. Value of massage in connection with the whitening process. CHAPTER XL— Scaly, Dry and Flabby Skins 92 Precautions to be observed in use of water or soap for cleans- ing. Oil mixture for sensitive skins. Value of electricity in re- storing tone to flabby and withered skins. CHAPTER XII.— Freckles, Tan and Sunburn 96 Removal of freckles and precautions to be observed in pro- tecting the tender skin. How to prevent tan. Ways of avoiding sunburn. Indolence or ignorance usually responsible for dis- comfort. CHAPTER XIII.— The Use of Powder 101 A pure powder advisable as a protecting agent. Method of manufacturing. Recipes for bathing powder, face powder "and a liquid cosmetic. Manner of applying powder. CHAPTER XIV.— The Art of Bathing 106 The educated bather and her favorite bath. Use of lotion for softening the bath water. Jelly of violets for preventing rough- ness of the skin. Sulphur, bran and electric baths and how to . take them. Strongly alkaline soap to be avoided. CHAPTER XV. — The Subject of Sterilizing Instru- \ii;nts 112 Strength of solution used in sterilizing hands and finger CONTENTS. xi PAGE nails. Boiling process for instruments. Care to be observed in the use of cream. Demand for conscientious work in this re- spect. CHAPTER XVI— Use of Electricity 118 Simple experiment by which current may be produced. The best battery for ordinary use. Number of cells usually neces- sary. How to prevent scars. Use of zinc ointment in allaying inflammation. Reappearance of hair. Treatment of eruptions when complicated with growth, etc. CHAPTER XVII.— The Removal of Superfluous Hair.. 134 Directions for equipment. Position of patient. Use of neg- ative pole, and how to insert the needle. Length of time neces- sary for each treatment. Advisability of using the bulbous needle. Treatment of skin after use of electricity. CHAPTER XVIII. — The Treatment of Moles, Warts, NjEvi 143 Precautions to be observed in the removal of bristly hair before attempting treatment of the mole. Necessity for observ- ing the appearance of the normal skin near portion worked upon. Number of treatments necessary and variation in different cases. Necessity for stronger current in treatment of warts. CHAPTER XIX.— Blanching the Skin, Discoloration, and Use of the Faradic Current 151 Curing red noses. Galvanic current as used in restoring tone to the skin. Method of using needle in Acne Rosacea. Removal of discolorations. Experiments in cataphoresis. Rapid method of bleaching the skin. Use of Faradic current in massage. Value of massage roller and vibratile. Stimulating effect of the current as shown in use of neurotone. Beneficial results obtained in treatment of scalp by means of brush attached to Faradic current. CHAPTER XX.— Care of the Hands 161 The ideal hand. Manner of washing the hands properly. Use of rose jelly. Keeping hands smooth. Red and swollen hands. Cosmetic mittens and whitening paste refining agents. Disguise for red hands. Instruments used in manicuring. Rec- ipes for polishing powder and bleaching lotion for nails. xii CONTENTS. PAGE CHAPTER XXL— How to Improve the Arms, Shoulders, Neck and Bust . . 175 Value of exercise in developing arms. How to banish rough- ness of the skin of arms. How to bleach the hair. Use of the depilatory in obstinate cases. Massage and electric treatments. Developing neck and bust. CHAPTER XXII.— Mouth and Teeth 181 Beautiful teeth as rare as perfect gems. Cosmetic defects of the mouth and how to treat them. Receding gums. How to improve them. Removal of incrustations or yellowish deposits upon the teeth. The best dentifrice and how to use it. Method of cleansing the teeth. CHAPTER XXIII — Care of the Feet 189 Importance of selecting sensible footwear. Massage of the feet. Treatment of swollen joints. How to cure ingrown nails and corns. CHAPTER XXIV.— Care of the Hair 197 Hair as the connecting link between vegetable and animal tissue. Cleansing of the scalp. Manner of shampooing. How to destroy vermin. CHAPTER XXV. Treatment of Scalp and Hair 203 Massage of the scalp. Stimulating tonic. Electric treat- ments of much value in stopping the falling of the hair. CHAPTER XXVI.— The Treatment of Dandruff or Scurf 209 Removal of crusts by means of application of ointments. Special shampoD for obstinate cases. Necessity for frequent shampoo until condition is remedied. Imperative need for earnest work. CHAPTER XXVII.— How to Dye and Bleach the Hair. . . 216 Use of a hair dye cannot be permanent. Process of Dyeing. How to bleach the hair. How to brighten dull shades. Artificial appearance always imparted by bleached hair. CHAPTER XXVIII.— How to Grow Thin 222 Rapid process of reduction almost invariably dangerous. CONTENTS. xiii PAGE Causes of obesity. Value of physical activity. Loss of vital capacity always found in obese conditions. Diet and directions for reduction of flesh. Table of weights. CHAPTER XXIX.— How to Become Plump 227 Breathing exercises of much benefit. Necessity for proper amount of rest. Importance of overcoming undue nervousness. Diet, as advocated by best authorities. CHAPTER XXX.— Physiological Development 231 Propriety of encouraging interest in this work among the middle aged. Experiment conducted by prominent educator and results. Wonderful benefits to be obtained by full breath- ing. Allowance of air necessary for each person. Bad effect caused by rapid violent breathing. Manner in which the busy women may secure best results from these exercises. A list of the most beneficial breathing exercises. CHAPTER XXXI.— Body Movements 242 List of exercises suitable for the majority of cases. Strength- ening of muscles, arms, legs and back, especially considered. Symmetrical development easily obtained by sufficient work. FULL PAGE ILLUSTRATIONS. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure Figure 8. Figure 9. Figure 10. Figure 11. Figure 12. Figure 13. Figure 14. Figure 15. Figure 16. Figure 17. Figure 18. Figure 19. Figure 20. Figure 21. Figure 22. Figure 23. Figure 24. Figure 25. Figure 26. Figure 27. Figure 28. Figure 29. A Task before Retiring ; Frontispiece Banishing the Crow's Feet Page 33 The Use of Parchment Strips ■ " 38 Using the Water Massage " 40 Erasing the Long Lines " 43 Lines about the Eye " 46 Massage— the Rotary Motion " 49 Massage of the Eyelid " 52 Massage of the Neck " 54 Use of the Vibratile " 62 Using the Comedone Extractor " 68 Using the Hypodermic Syringe " 70 A Smooth Skin after Skillful Work. " 72 Removal of. Superfluous Hair " 133 Removal of Mole " 142 Using the Galvanic Current ......... " 150 Massage with Use of the Faradic Current " 154 Use of the Massage Roller " 156 Use of the Faradone " 159 Use of the File " 163 Use of the Orange Wood Stick " 166 Use of the Stick Polish " 169 Use of the Buffer " 171 Massage of the Foot " 190 Massage of the Joint to Reduce Inflammation. " 193 Bandaging Inflamed Joint " 195 Use of Hair Brush Electrode " 204 Scalp Massage— First Movement. " 207 Scalp Massage — Second Movement " 212 XIV CHAPTER I. THE APPEARANCE OF THE NORMAL SKIN. The perfect skin is soft, smooth with a transparent lus- ter, elastic and moist, with a coloring that differs greatly in individuals. In some instances it is like pale ivory, in others a pearly white, often a pinkish cast may be found, while certain nationalities possess the peculiar brownish, yel- low tints found in the Spanish and Italians. The exposed portions of the skin are darker than those protected by the clothing, and on close examination the sur- face will not appear smooth, but covered with the tiniest and finest of lines, some parallel, others intersecting, while in addition a growth of soft, almost colorless hair called lanugo is seen to be abundant. It is due to this peculiarity of structure, with its tiny furrows and elevations and soft down of the "wool hair,'' that the delicacy of appearance exists. The skin is about one-tenth of an inch thick, and is pro- vided with a natural oil, exuding imperceptibly under or- dinary conditions, and keeping the flesh soft and pliable. Perspiration is excreted by the glands and carbonic acid gas is eliminated, while oxygen is absorbed. Thus, liquids, ointments and substances intended to correct the various de- fects may also be forced into the skin, and when rapid re- sults are required the necessity exists for frequent bathing in connection with proper manipulation. The epidermis, or cuticle, is the outer layer of the skin and is exposed to the air on one side and attached to the corium on the other. This exposure to the air naturally keeps the outer layer in a drier condition and it is due to this fact 16 THE SKIN. as well as to the application of friction that the constant casting off of scales occurs. Ordinarily this process is barely perceptible, but when the secretion of oil is not suffi- cient to keep the skin moist, this scaliness becomes extreme- ly objectionable and great flakes peel off continually, caus- ing the face to look rough and coarse. Under the influence of an irritant or where there is made an attempt to bleach the skin, the same excessive flaking occurs until the appli- cations cease. When the condition is extremely obstinate constant inunctions of oil are necessary in order to keep the skin in even a presentable condition. Hence the value of the flesh or skin foods in cases of this description, as the best of them are made from the finest oils and are readily absorbed by the skin. The mucous or malpighian layer is the deepest of the outer layers of the skin and is situated directly above the corium. Cones descending from this mucous layer are met by the papillae extending up so that all the hollow spaces are filled in. It is in this layer that the pigment cells are found and it is in a desire to affect this supply of color- ing matter that the various ointments for whitening the skin are applied and rubbed in vigorously. The irritation of the friction loosens the scarf skin and hastens the peeling, while the manipulation assists in the process of absorption. Should the irritation be prolonged greatly there is danger of causing a greater deposit of pigment in this spot, instead of removing the old discoloration. Carelessness in this respect has ruined many faces, for the application of some of the powerful bleaches has produced deep cauterizations and thus left a permanent disfigurement, impossible to re- move. No single treatment of the skin should ever be con- tinued after redness or burning has been produced. The presence of this coloring matter in the mucous layer has THE SKIN. 17 been made the subject of a curious experiment in which a bit of skin from a white man was grafted upon a negro, with the result that after a time the grafted portion became as black as the rest of the body. The corium, or "true skin/' is made up of a dense, reg- ular structure of elastic fibers. Under this is a layer of con- nective tissue and here as well as in the cellular structure is found the fatty tissue. The papillae projecting from this corium into the mucous layer each contain either the daintiest capillary network or nervous apparatus. The healthy hue of the skin is thus produced and maintained by the tiny blood vessels, while when cold or under the in- fluence of a great shock or terror, the nerve filaments pro- duce the appearance known as "goose flesh." The layers of the skin as named are the most important, though of course physiologists divide and sub-divide them still farther and explain many details which will neither interest nor assist the ordinary student, so no mention is made here of the distinctions drawn by some of these au- thors. By studying the connection of the various layers it will be seen that the outer layer should be nourished by the proper action of the numerous glands in the lower sections, while the coloring on the cheeks and face naturally comes from the tiny blood capillaries projecting from the corium into the mucous layer by means of the papillae. The soft luster of the perfect skin is due to the proper actions of the numerous glands as well as the presence of sufficient subcutaneous fat. Hence any functional or lo- cal disturbance will naturally affect the coloring and appear- ance. In young and healthy people this luster is more pro- nounced than in those who are older. In fact, one of the first signs of approaching age is found in the disappearance of this peculiar glow and a manifestation of a dry and illy- 18 THE SKIN. nourished condition of the skin as shown by numerous folds, at first very shallow, and afterward deepening into veritable furrows that become rapidly more pronounced unless prop- erly treated. The normal skin should possess none of these lines un- til the subject is so far advanced in years that age shows plainly. To the observant student it is apparent that it is more sensible to attempt to correct the various faults by a judicious use of external applications as combined with the necessary internal treatment; than it is to think that a few doses of medicine by way of the mouth into the poor, overworked stomach, can possibly reach every portion of the body and correct every evil that exists. There is a most peculiar impression among many peo- ple that all skins are normal and that the only exceptions to this rule are found in instances where cosmetics have been applied. In reality, there are just as many exceptions to the standard of health in skins as there are in bodies, and it is quite as absurd to say that no skin needs treatment as it is to say that no human being will ever need medical treat- ment. The fact that the skin needs constant care to keep it in good condition can nowhere be better illustrated than in mentioning the preservation of the flesh of the neck and arms in almost every woman, whether any care has been bestowed upon them or not. The constant friction from the clothing keeps the pores freed from obstructions, while protection from the sun and air preserves the whiteness. The face, on the other hand, exposed to all changes of tempera- ture, biting winds and burning sun, is naturally affected greatly by this exposure. Discretion in caring for it will to a great extent, remedy the dangers of necessary ex- posure, and keep the complexion in good condition. THE SKIN. 19 It is hoped that these lines may be convincing enough to prove to the majority of women the necessity of constant care to keep the pores freed from obstructions, the skin from unnecessary defects, and the face free from disfiguring wrinkles and the appearance of premature old age. The treatments advocated in this book have been prac- ticed for many years with absolute success. The articles are mentioned as used so that the beginner may know exactly how to proceed, as vague directions but confuse the stu- dent. The successful woman in business must depend upon unguents of which she knows, if she expects to secure good results. Emphasis has been placed upon the importance of thoroughly cleansing the skin before work of any kind is attempted, because the pores must be in a condition to receive the material applied if the results are to be satis- factory. CHAPTER II. WHY CREAMS ARE NECESSARY. When any oil or combination of oils as found in creams is applied to the skin it becomes soft, pliable and smooth. It is readily absorbed into the superficial layer of the epi- dermis and soon produces a clear appearance besides pre- venting undue tension and removing any roughness that exists. Methodical applications of ointments further their absorption into the skin, and even cause them to appear in the blood by way of the lymph vessels. Increase in weight, the pleasing roundness and improved appearance are thus explained as natural consequences after proper work. As a protecting agent, a good cream is unexcelled, for it forms a water-tight covering that serves to diminish the moisture given off" by the skin. Sebaceous secretions, fatty acids of the sweat, and dirt may also be removed by an application of oils, while the use of a thin coating is always advisable in order to cause powder to adhere well. The actual necessity for the use of creams can nowhere be bet- ter illustrated than during a trip through the Yellowstone Park. The only people who enjoy this outing are they who realize that their safety and comfort consists in cleansing the skin with a cream made for the purpose and then applying more before dusting on the powder. Water and soap should not be applied until the alkaline water has given place to the ordinary variety. Even then, many ex- perienced travelers hesitate about using much of it and instead, stand loyally by their creams and powder. In fact, there are skins so peculiarly sensitive that no water can be used, and instead the surface must be cleansed with oil of some kind. THE SKIN. 21 The use of seductive ointments and perfumed oils was so very general among the ancients that there was a different mixture advocated for every portion of the body, and as a basis for many of them the fat of an animal was sup- posed to be necessary. For instance, the pomade used for the feet and legs was invariably made from the animal who possessed most strength and speed. That for the arms and chest was termed Phoenician, while the most costly and deli- cate oils were reserved for use on the face, neck and hands. There is no doubt that the Greek and Roman women owed the preservation of their beauty to this practice of anointing after the bath, and it may well be urged on the women of the present century as a very necessary process in the art of beautifying, as well as a powerful aid in keeping the skin of the body and face in an excellent condition. The use of a good unguent or skin food should be rec- ommended for the purpose of massaging not only the face but also the entire body at least once a week after the vapor or steam bath. A good cream is one that may be readily absorbed by the pores, leaving the skin soft and pli- able, but with no appearance of oiliness. Ointments are made the means of treating many of the skin affections, as, they may be absorbed so easily into the skin, that in this manner much may be done by way of external application. In any treatments of this kind, it is very necessary that the pores be kept absolutely free from obstruction, so that the oils may be able to penetrate readily. The knowledge of just what treatment each skin needs is one possessed only by the experienced worker. In many instances there must be a combination of remedies skillfully applied to counteract the various peculiar conditions, and in all cases much perseverance must exist. Many are troubled with abnormally dry skins and with freckles also. The 22 . THE SKIN. treatment in this instance must be so directed that the de- mand for a nourishing oil may be supplied, while also a penetrating remedy may be used in order to affect the ab- normal amount of coloring matter in the mucous layer of the skin. In the work of treating blackheads, in which there is an excessive secretion of oil, there must be oil used to penetrate the glands and stimulate them, and the de- mand for an astringent is also to be considered. So the peculiarities of each individual must be studied and treated. In every instance the use of oils as combined in creams is a necessity. Although all intelligent workers realize and can explain to their patrons the reasons for applying ointments, there are many ignorant though positive souls who attempt to discredit the efficiency of work of this kind by asserting that the use of creams will make the hair grow. If this were only true, one can well imagine the joy that would be speedily felt in the ranks of bald-headed rnen. The fortu- nate manufacturer of such a cream would immediately be- come famous as well as rich and would be regarded as a public benefactor. Unfortunately at the risk of disappoint- ing many, one must be truthful enough to assert that no ordinary cream will cause the growth of hair. All skins are covered with the soft wool hair or lanugo. In many instances as people grow older this growth be- comes more apparent. Close observation in hundreds of cases has failed to reveal any connection between the ap- pearance of hair and the use of creams. Very frequently, in fact in nearly all cases, this abnormal growth appears also on the arms and legs showing that it is not confined to the face alone. Fully one-half of the worst cases the author has ever seen were found to be guiltless of ever applying any kind of a creme to the skin, while the remainder de- THE SKIN. 23 clared that they were convinced that there would be no con- nection between the use of a good creme and the growth of hair. There has been an effort during the past few years on the part of unscrupulous or ignorant manufacturers to pro- duce articles that shall take the place of substances con- taining oil, and' many high-priced and strongly scented con- coctions have been advertised for the purpose of massage, having for their chief recommendation the absence of any- thing like an oil or fat. This, in itself, should be enough to keep any intelligent woman from an attempt to use the articles, for every student of physiology should know from the nature of the skin that it must have oil of some kind applied if it is to be kept in good condition. That much- used term, "skin food," is really appropriate for how many women who have been withered and faded and haggard, years before their time, have had the skin so fed and nour- ished that they have looked years younger after only a week or so of proper treatment. CHAPTER III. THE MANUFACTURE OF CREAMS. The work of combining the various oils into odorous mixtures is one that appeals naturally to any woman. She who has not this inclination to don a big apron, and stir the foamy substance that is to make her far more attractive, must have either a heart of adamant or be utterly lacking in either imagination or sentiment. Few women ever grow so old or become so dead to their sense of beauty that they can honestly deny all interest in work of this character. And, as we all love to see flowers instead of weeds, well- kept houses rather than ruined huts, so, too, a well-groomed woman with a complexion free from defects will ever be more attractive than one who is lined and yellow from sheer neglect. The necessity for the use of creams has been so well established that it is useless to add more on the subject, but the process of making them may well need a few lines of explanation. This fascinating art is not without its draw- backs, chief among which is the very serious one that con- fronts most amateurs— lack of sufficient knowledge. Then, too, the work is not a cheap amusement, for by the time the various utensils necessary have been collected, and the nu- merous ingredients have been purchased, the outlay is far in excess of the cost of the purchased articles, while in addi- tion there is always a possibility that the results may not be good. Of course, it is absolutely hopeless for any one un- trained in the work to attempt the composition of any of the more complicated recipes, as both the equipment and the materials would involve too great an outlay, to say nothing of the necessity for experience in the work. Hence, in the THE SKIN. 25 recipes that follow care has been- taken to explain carefully each step, as well as to select only those that can be prepared with a comparatively certain degree of success. A good almond oil is the basis of nearly every fine prep- aration. Of course every druggist keeps this oil, but every druggist does not keep the finest variety, as there is not enough demand to warrant it. Thus the woman who wishes to do good work will be under the necessity of pur- chasing her oil in the twenty-five-pound cans direct from the importers or large drug houses if she wishes to be sure of the quality. Creams made from any nut oils will be- come rancid under the influence of intense or prolonged heat, and creams made from inferior qualities of oils be- come rancid almost immediately, while in addition to this unpleasant property they also irritate the skin greatly. All creams are best made in small quantities and should, when not in use, be kept in a cool place with the covers of the jar well fastened down. In purchasing ingredients care should be exercised to see that they are the best obtainable. A pure almond oil will be of a delicate straw color, clear as crystal, and with none of that strong odor so invariably associated with the ordinary oils. Lanolin is best purchased in pound packages after it has been subjected to the refining process. It has always a peculiar, sticky appearance and possesses a mildly distasteful and extremely distinctive scent. The finest wax is nearly white, not yellow, and comes in small round cakes, while the best spermaceti is usually found in long, white glistening cakes. Cocoanut oil when pure and fresh looks like a ball of snow pudding, though of course the strong odor is never absent. Although other oils are used, the three mentioned are those most generally employed and also most beneficial in effect. 26 THE SKIN. Before attempting to make any creams an investment in an enameled water boiler is absolutely necessary. This should be used for nothing but work of this kind, and with it should come one or two long-handled granite spoons for stirring the oils. In making the cream, care should be ob- served in regard to the thorough melting of the white wax, spermaceti and other ingredients before the rose water is added. In order to have the mixtures appear the best, they should be well beaten from the time they are taken from the fire until they are cool enough to perfume. Cream Celeste is a very good skin food when made of the finest materials. It is prepared as follows : Almond oil . . 8 % Spermaceti 25 White wax 1 5 Honey 15 Rose water 2 § Borax „ . . 1 3 Rose geranium oil — sufficient to perfume. The oils may be melted together, and then the honey added and stirred in well. Last of all, the rose water, in which has been dis- solved one dram of borax. Enough of the oil of rose geranium to thoroughly perfume the mixture may be used as soon as it is cool. Almonda is the friend of the freckled maiden, though the action is so mild that she becomes a little discouraged at times, for it will not remake her instantly. Still she must reflect that no one inexperienced in the art should be in- trusted with the use of chemicals that may be potent alike for good or evil, depending upon the discretion with which they are used. This creme should be applied at night after washing the face with soap and warm water. It is not so THE SKIN. 27 penetrating as the Whitening Creme spoken of elsewhere, but has been used with very good results : Almond oil 6 § Lanolin i § Spermaceti . 2 g Cocoanut oil - , I § White wax I § White precipitate I 3 Oil bitter almonds I 3 Melt the oils together and then add the white precipi- tate first, mixed with one-half ounce of alcohol. Perfume with oil of bitter almonds. Delight of the Harem sounds quite oriental enough to enable one to conjure up a vision of some dusky beauty, carefully applying this seductive ointment in the hope of making her warm olive skin look a deadly white. This cream is really used for whitening the skin of the neck and arms temporarily, and is especially useful for the purpose of disguising a bad skin in the evening. It should not be used on the face, as it is too much of an astringent. Almond oil 6 § White wax I § Spermaceti i § Paraffin . I § Oxide of zinc -. I 3 Orange blossom oil 20 drops In this preparation the oxide of zinc should be well sifted through bolting cloth jefore mixing in with the oils, as otherwise the cream may appear a little gritty. The effect of applying this ointment is most ^leasing and it is doubtless to some preparation of this kind that the profes- sional beauties owe their snowy, arms and shoulders. The recipes which follow for the use of creams made 28 THE SKIN. of strawberry and of cucumber juice are said to be highly beneficial. The chief objection to the use of these articles is the fact that they require more time in making and are, of course, impossible to obtain at certain seasons of the year, for it is said that no hot-house vegetable will do for this purpose. Strawberry Cream is much used to remove tan or dis- colorations that are not too pronounced. It is made in this manner : Almond oil 8 § Strawberries i qt Allow the strawberries to simmer in the hot oil for three or four hours, until the greater part of the juice is extracted, and then strain through a cheesecloth bag without using any pressure. Proceed as follows, using for six ounces of the strained liquid these ingredients : Strained liquid 6 g Lanolin . . 2 g Spermaceti 2 g White wax I g Tinct. benzoin I 3 Bals. Peru i 3 Oil Neroli I 3 Add the balsam of Peru to the hot oils and then remove from the fire and stir, beating in the tincture of benzoin and adding perfumed oil last of all. Strawberry Paste. — In connection with the use of this cream the strawberry paste has also been used to some ex- tent. It is easily made and may better be given here, as the two are so closely associated: Fresh strawberries I lb Gum tragacanth ^4 g Orris powder I g THE SKIN. 29 Almond meal I § Juice of lemons 3 § Rose water J^> pt Dissolve the tragacanth in sufficient rose water to form a mucilage, and then crush the strawberries and mix before straining. Add the orris root and almond meal and last of all the lemon juice. Apply in the form of a thin paste at night and remove in the morning, using the cream imme- diately afterward and dusting on powder before exposure to the air. Cucumber Cream is prepared in much the same way, using the same amount of oil and cutting in it as soon as warm three good-sized cucumbers which have not been peeled : Almond oil 8 § Cucumbers 3 Heat well for three or four hours and then strain through cheesecloth, adding the following ingredients : Strained liquid 6 § Paraffin 2 § White wax 1 § Cocoanut oil 2 § Oil of Neroli 1 3 A cream that may be used for eruptions that occur so frequently during the summer months is prepared in this manner : Lanolin 2 § Cocoanut oil 4 § Paraffin 1 1 White wax 1 § Carbolic acid 1 3 In this cream the oils are melted and the acid added when the mixture is cool. It is best if applied after washing 30 THE SKIN. the face well with a mild soap and warm water, just before retiring at night. Another cream most popular with those who suffer from prickly heat or the tiny red pimple that appears on the arms and shoulders is made by using witch hazel instead of rose water, the other ingredients being practically the same as those used in any cold cream : Witch hazel 35 Lanolin , 25 Almond oil 45 White wax 15 Spermaceti 2 § Skin Food. — For those who find glycerine agrees with the skin the following recipe for a skin food will be most acceptable, as in this formula it appears to good advantage : Sweet almond oil 45 Spermaceti 25 White wax 1 g Glycerine 2 g Powdered borax 1 3 Rose water 2 § Oil rose . 10 drops Melt the oils together and dissolve the borax in the rose water and glycerine. Add the other ingredients, beating constantly until cold. Perfume last of all. The list of these pleasing and useful cosmetics is indeed a long one and might be continued indefinitely were it not decidedly impracticable for the ordinary amateur to indulge in the pleasing though expensive pastime of making creams. Why it is, no one knows, but it is surely a fact that while women delight to make these cosmetics, they seldom have any faith in the efficacy of anything they can prepare, and THE SKIN. 31 it is probably due to this as much as anything else that so few women in business now manufacture their own cos- metics. Buying any of the ingredients in a small way is ex- tremely expensive, while the work of concocting the various articles requires much time as well as a special training. No one preparation can ever be used successfully for all defects, and it requires much knowledge to enable a masseuse to judge the requirements of each skin, as well as to know the best method of treating it. All work to be beneficial must be performed methodically and intelligently, and this applies especially to the use of the various remedies indica- ted in treatment of the ordinary skin affections. The operator must remember that much besides the pos- session of a good formula is necessary if she is to make cos- metics that are to be really beneficial. She may be mix- ing up ingredients that are really harmful if she does not know enough to be able to tell when an article is pure , or, when it has been adulterated. She must not only know chemistry but she must also know the physiology of the skin if she hopes to do really good work in manufacturing, and unless she can afford to obtain the necessary apparatus she is foolish to attempt any work in this line. Xo greater mistake can be made by an operator than to tell her patients she knows a creme is pure because she made it herself. The cities are filled with women who have never done anything to learn the correct method of mak- ing cremes but who nevertheless insist upon making the attempt to do good work in this line. To be efficacious, a creme must not only be properly made but also properly applied,, and not until all these con- ditions are understood can any one hope to do successful 32 THE SKIN. work. In fact, although many people dabble in mixing things just because of the enjoyment the work affords, only a few reliable operators try to make their own cremes, but instead, purchase them of rehable firms, realizing that thus they are certain of doing much toward instilling into the minds of their patients a more implicit confidence in their method of treatment. Figure 2. Banishing the Crow's Feet. CHAPTER IV. WRINKLES AND WHAT CAUSES THEM. Although the word wrinkle is unavoidably associated with the thought of age, in reality many wrinkles have little connection with the age of the person and are caused by the carelessness of the subject rather than by the weight of years. Habit lines form early in life, and among those com- monly observed, some of which serve to alter the most winning face into one far more prepossessing, may be men- tioned the creases caused by elevating the eyebrows con- stantly while conversing. Lines of this kind are frequently deep and obstinate before the age of twenty has been reached. The straight line found running from the root of the nose up into the forehead, giving to the face a surly, disagreeable expression, is made by scowling or squinting when reading, or inspecting any object that requires close scrutiny. The appearance of these lines in exactly the same portions of the face in every member of a family from one generation to another undoubtedly points to the influence of heredity. It also indicates the existence of gross care- lessness, for by a little effort toward muscle control, it will soon be found that any of these habits may be cured, even if every member of the family for the past seven hundred years has insisted upon having them. Cosmetics containing harmful metallic astringents may also be mentioned as a cause of the appearance of deep repulsive lines, occurring particularly in the cheeks, and generally very difficult to remove. Wrinkles of this kind are especially apt to cause an appearance of extreme age, THE SKIN. 35 even though the subject is a young person, for not only are the folds deep, but the surrounding flesh, as well, seems to be dry and lifeless. Ill health is another factor in causing lines to appear, and in most instances of this kind the skin seems poorly nourished as well, while the lines appear by the dozen, cross- ing and recrossing the flesh until the face looks like a bit of patchwork. When the skin has the feeling of parch- ment, the lines are apt to be particularly hard to erase, and constant inunctions of oil are necessary to make the com- plexion even presentable. Mechanical appliances are responsible for much trouble, and the use of the face steamer may be mentioned as being particularly harmful. The intense heat extracts the fat from the tissues and in time produces a flabby condition of the skin. The pores become large and the wrinkles form quickly. Another potent cause of trouble in this respect, may be found in the small glass arrangement provided with a rubber bulb. By placing the glass upon the face and compressing the bulb, the flesh is drawn into the glass by suction. True, the blood rushes to the surface, and the skin becomes uniformly pink, but the mischief comes from the undue stretching that assists in producing fresh lines in- stead of removing the old ones. Strongly alkaline washes and bleaches, undiluted alcohol, too much benzoin, and other similar preparations have an intensely drying effect upon the skin, and make much mis- chief by affecting the supply of oil necessary to a healthful condition. Another active factor in assisting wrinkles to appear may be found in nearly every bedroom. If the light streams directly from the windows toward the bed in such a man- ner that the sun's rays can penetrate through the crevices 36 THE SKIN. of the shades or around the edges, falling directly upon the face, the lines about the eyes and forehead will be found unusually deep. This is due to the unconscious contraction of the brows, causing the wrinkles to multiply rapidly, and may easily be avoided by either changing the position of the bed, hanging heavy curtains over the windows, or by using' the foot of the bed in place of the head so that the sleeper will not face the light. Lines of age are those that will come to every face in the course of time, for no power has been found as yet that is of avail in persuading Time to move less rapidly. The appearance of the unwelcome guests that mark the gather- ing years can therefore be treated only as a matter of course, at the same time making an effort to correct any faulty condition of the skin that may aid them in obtaining a stronger hold. Patient labor will do wonders toward making the traces less apparent, and if the skin is skillfully cared for, lines may not appear for many years. Of course, no face could be interesting without traces of expression, and the woman of a happy disposition who continually smiles whether at trouble or joy will invariably have a face that will indicate this tendency, while the woman who is a victim of melancholia and allows her mood to govern her life will just as positively exhibit to the world lines that betray her weakness. So the observant student who has cultivated the habit of studying human nature will be able to tell much of a woman's life by the appearance of her face, unless she has trained herself into exhibiting no emotion at any time. Wrinkles that form later in life and that so clearly dis- close these secrets are caused by the loosening of the con- nections of the skin, the disappearance of the subcutaneous fat, and the connective tissue, and the flattening of the tiny THE SKIN. 37 papillae. Hence the only method that will retard this proc- ess is that which consists in gently but thoroughly cleansing the skin in such a manner that the pores may be thor- oughly opened and the oil necessary to the nourishment of the tissues may be readily absorbed. This process of absorp- tion must be assisted by manipulation or friction conducted by means of the finger massage. The circulation should be brought into action by exercise and by the use of electricity when necessary. The application of creams and nourish- ing foods should be made at frequent intervals in a system- atic manner in order to replace the constant waste, while baths and correct massage will so tone and strengthen the muscles that the skin will respond readily to the work indi- cated. In the treatment of wrinkles emphasis should ever be placed on the use of gentle rather than forcible efforts to remove them, and only the most scientific method should be employed in this work. By following instructions and observing the directions indicated in the illustrations the work may be done most successfully. Figure 3. Use of Parchment Strips. CHAPTER V. WHY WE MASSAGE. Massage is now fully recognized as an important factor in the treatment of many skin affections. It is not only em- ployed to retard the appearance of age, but is also valuable as an assistant in promoting the absorption of the various ointments used in the many skin affections. In fact, so great has been the progress of information regarding the best methods of treating the skin that one rarely sees an "old woman" now. Judging from the presence of children, and grandchildren, a woman will be known to have passed a certain age, but aside from this actual knowledge, her ap- pearance will positively give no suggestion of her real years. In reality massage bears to the face the same relations that careful cleansing does to the gowns that simply must last a certain length of time. Every woman knows that attention of this kind is necessary if she would keep her wardrobe in good condition, and in time all women will be convinced that they owe themselves at least as much atten- tion as they bestow upon their clothing. Although very excellent results are attained by the trained masseuse, still there is much to be said in favor of the home work, for by patient application of the principles of- massage, any ambitious woman can succeed in keeping her face entirely free from those dreaded heralds of age — wrinkles. There is no doubt that the woman who is will- ing to give ten or fifteen minutes each day to this work, can practically clear her face from any signs of creases or lines. Of course, there is much of advantage in being able Figure 4. Using the Water Massage. THE SKIN. 41 to obtain treatment from those who have every appliance at hand to aid in the work, and in addition there is that sooth- ing sensation of absolute rest so gratifying to the nervous soul who submits herself to the care of the professional. However, when it is not possible to do this, there is great comfort in the thought of w T hat may be accomplished by dint of will and perseverance. When circumstances per- mit, the massage treatments may be taken twice a week with great benefit, and the systematic work continued at home just the same. If one has spent a restless night, and the morning shows signs of this wakefulness, a little cold water dashed over the skin and followed by a brisk mas- sage for but two or three minutes will freshen the com- plexion and, in fact, invigorate the entire system, as well as do much service in the way of routing the enemy. A skin food or creme is always used in connection with the massage treatment, not only because the materials will be absorbed into the skin, but also to aid the fingers in the work, as otherwise the skin would become red and irrita- ted by the constant friction. In this climate, with its varia- tions of heat and cold, every woman who wishes to appear well must positively pin her faith to the use of prepara- tions of this kind. Nature may have intended all people to have beautiful complexions, but she also planned at the same time many other things, and as lives are lived with- out any reference to her suggestions excepting to com- plain because she has not done more, it is rather foolish to blame her for all the troubles that most of us possess. The country maid is often quoted as an example of health and beauty, but alas ! her comeliness is not permanent, and at thirty the buxom lass has lost her roses and most of her teeth. The cheeks are hollow, the forehead lined. Streaks of brown invade the tan and make the complexion 42 THE SKIN. hopeless, while round shoulders aid to make her look every day of fifty. The worst of the matter is, she feels it, too, and is assured that the best years of her life have passed, while her city sister of the same age blooms' out like a rose, feeling that life is just commencing to be of the most interest. Physiologists tell us that the majority of people are not perfectly developed until they have passed twenty-eight years. Some of the muscles are only then perfectly capable of doing the w r ork required of them. If this is true, the period of maturity may well be advanced another ten years and fifty should find a woman at her best. The majority of intelligent women are at their best at this age, but some of them who have not progressed so fapidly still feel du- bious of the propriety of making an effort to appear youth- ful and look forward with dread to an inefficient and unen- joyable old age. However, each day brings more recruits to the ranks of the hopeful, and as information becomes disseminated widely more women will see in the gathering years the time when perfected mentally, and in good condition physically, they can really accomplish great things. Massage is naturally the one great factor in producing the best results in work of this kind, and of all forms of massage, nothing can give the benefit that the manipulations of the finger-tips bestow. Many devices have been invented and advocated. Many are excellent when combined with the priginal form, but all must be considered subservient to the soft yet forcible touch bestowed by the fingers of the good masseuse. The cleansing process advocated as a necessary part of every treatment is based upon the requirements of the skin. The use of tiny mallets and a small roller are indeed valu- Figure 5. Erasing the Long Lines, 44 THE SKIN. able as adjuncts to the best work, but cannot be regarded in any other light. All work must emphatically be well performed if the results are to be good. HOW TO PREPARE THE FACE FOR MASSAGE. Many operators apply hot towels to the face before attempting any manipulation. Others alternate the hot towels by the use of the massage, but those who wish to do the best work will use the following method, as it is the only one that keeps the flesh firm and free from fur- rows. Intensely hot applications in any form are most injurious and make the flesh so tender that even the lightest movements are apt to bruise the skin and injure the deeper tissues, besides ultimately causing the flesh to become flabby. First of all, before utilizing the water massage, the skin must be well coated with a creme sufficiently penetrating to reach into the pores. The ordinary massage creme or skin food is altogether too heavy for this purpose, and hence the article especially planned for this work should always be used if the best results are to be obtained. The lettuce creme spreads easily and has a wonderfully quick effect. The majority of operators apply the creme before filling the bag with water and getting the instruments ready. By the time everything is in working order the creme may be removed from the face by means of bits of soft cloth or cotton, leaving just enough oil to facilitate the move- ment of the cup. The receptacle for water is hung about six feet from the floor, or else it is attached to a strong cord and a small pulley used for raising and lowering it. The water passes through rubber tubing from this receptacle into the tiny cup, against the face and then out again through more tub- THE SKIN. 45 ing into a jar or bowl placed at a convenient distance from the operating chair. This bowl should always hold enough water to cover the end of the outlet tube, otherwise air enough could be sucked into the tubing to force the cup away from the face. The suction is regulated not only by the distance the bag is hung from the floor, but also by the distance the inlet Massage Cup, Showing Electrical Connection, tube in the cup is from the face, matters easily regulated by the operator at will. Before applying the cup to the face, the inlet tube must be placed in the position desired, and the stream of water may then be allowed to run through the cup into the bowl in order to ascertain whether there is sufficient force. If any obstruction is present it may be quickly removed by thrusting a small wire into the inlet tube and thus removing any foreign matter. An entirely new and it is firmly believed the most val- uable treatment, not previously described, is given by means Figure fj. The Lines about the Eve. THE SKIN. 47 of a cup made of insulated material provided with a mov- able inlet tube that may be taken out whenever necessary for a thorough cleansing, while an extra arm projecting from the upper side makes it possible to charge the liquid by means of electricity by simply inserting the small tip of the ordinary cord from the battery. This cup is so con- structed that it may be used with or without the current, though of course the majority of operators much prefer utilizing the electric current because of the wonderful improvement made possible by this method of treating the skin. The combination of forces presented by means of this "Electrolytic Massage" are so numerous that one can not mention all of them. The skin is not only lifted and cleansed as with the ordinary water massage, but also at the same time solutions medicated to suit each condition are forced into the deeper tissues by means of cataphoresis. thus making a marked improvement in the work of remov- ing any defect of the skin. In the chapter on wrinkles it will be remembered that one of the causes of these unwelcome visitors was stated as "the flattening of the papillae" in the deeper layers of the skin. In this treatment the electric current so strength- ens and stimulates them that the appearance of age may be effectively retarded, pores long obstructed by black- heads may be cleansed, the sebaceous glands aided in their work, while coloring matter deposited in the deeper layers of the skin may also be sufficiently affected to make bleach- ing the flesh a far more simple matter. The manner of using the cup is not at all difficult, and in Figure 4 the method of applying it to the face is clearly shown. In beginning a treatment it is always well to apply the cup to the flesh portion of the cheek before opening the shut off. Then hold it there long enough to establish 48 THE SKIN. a suction, and using the fingers as guides, gently move it in direction indicated by the arrow in the illustration, bring- ing it back toward the nose and then out again in a sort of triangular movement. By observing the general rules for massage and using sufficient deliberation in moving the cup about, and always remembering to keep the outlet tube pointed downward, but little water will be spilled by a beginner, while a professional will almost never experience any difficulty. The hardest places to treat are the forehead and the sides of the nose, but even here with care, there will be little real trouble. In every instance it must be remembered that the ringers simply serve as aids in the work and care must be exerted to avoid using undue pressure. When once the suction is established, the cup glides easily over the skin and good work is really retarded by attempting to hold it firmly. The first treatment is always given with warm water, and in this may be placed the various substances indicated by the conditions found. If the skin is scaly, dry and shriveled, a half cup of saturated solution of borax may be added to the water and the negative electrode of the Gal- vanic current attached to the cup, while the subject holds the positive in her hand. The Galvanic current is indicated in every treatment because it alone has the power to change the solutions and force them into the deeper tissues. When the cup is used with the Faradic current a stimulating action is the result, and when used without electricity the solution simply acts as when applied to the skin in an ordinary manner with the exception that the pores absorb more readily because of the gentle suction employed. If the skin appears lifeless and looks as though it needed stimulation, a half cup of saturated solution of salt is to be added to the water and again the Galvanic current may Figure 7. Massage — the Rotary Motion. 50 THE SKIN. be employed. This salt solution has a truly remarkable effect on many skins and is often employed by the author as the best method of aiding Nature in the work of remedy- ing existing defects. In the treatment of blackheads, or where the skin appears coarse and oily, a half cup of soda solution is used and the same electric attachment made. Negative to the cup, positive to the hand of the patient. For a yellow and discolored skin, or one covered with moth patch, the salt solution may be employed if there is no oily appearance and the soda solution where oiliness exists. Thus for every condition found there is a possi- bility of reaching into the deeper tissues by means of this new method. Many operators who have never employed the Galvanic current hardly know what to expect in the way of a sensa- tion, and are agreeably surprised by the pleasant tingling produced by this current. A slightly metallic taste is usually an accompaniment, but as this is not at all disagree- able no one ever complains about it. The effect on the nerves is so restful that it is recommended by many physi- cians for this reason alone. It must be remembered in giv- ing a treatment that if the skin is in very bad condition the more cells that are brought into circuit and the longer the treatment is continued the more rapid the effect. Of course this is a rule that must be used with discretion, and hence the following suggestion must be observed. In connection with this form of treatment, six cells from the ordinary battery may be employed at first, and others brought into circuit as required. The sensations described by the subject are usually the best guides to the number of cells used as the tingling gives way to an unpleasant pricking if too much electricity is used. The best equipment includes THE SKIX. 51 ■r always a milliampere meter, which permits of accurate measurement of the current : not more than two milliamperes will be tolerated by the average person, though of course a smaller quantity is tried to begin with, and more gradually brought into use as may be indicated by the tolerance of the patient. Following the use of the warm water the manipulation with the finger tips commences, and here especial emphasis must be placed on the use of the proper ointments, for the skin has been so cleansed and stimulated that it is in the most receptive condition. For the dry, shriveled skin, Tissue Food should be employed. For the dark, discolored or freckled skin the Whitening Creme will be necessary, while for blackheads, pimples. \ large pores or oily skins the Acne Cream is always used. In every instance the neck must also be included in the treatment or otherwise the difference in color will be too apparent. Immediately after this finger massage the bag must be filled with cold water to which half a cup of saturated solu- tion of alum has been added. Here the Faradic current may be employed if desired or the negative pole of the Galvanic current may again be attached to the cup. The use of the cold water is especially to be commended about the eyes and beneath the chin because of its tendency to make the flesh firm. The effect of this last treatment is so deiiciously invigorating that one enthusiast describes it as being just what she should imagine a "mental shower bath might be." Following this cold water, powder must be dusted over the skin before the subject is allowed to go into the air. If the skin is unusually sensitive and shows powder readily, the Acacia Balm may be applied as a substitute. If the skin is unusually oily and thus needs further attention, a w i v ^ MP^ i ll r %&. tJc**. s, *te*tk Figure 8. Massage of the Eyelid. THE SKIN. 53 soft cloth may be immersed in this solution and rubbed gently over the surface before applying the vegetable powder. Violet Water, 8 ounces. Alcohol, i ounce. Oxide Zinc, I drachm. Tinct. Benzoin, I drachm. Crystals Menthol, 5 grains. The powder may then be dusted on carefully as a finish- ing touch to an ideal treatment. Figure 9. Massage of the Neck. CHAPTER VI. HOW TO MASSAGE. The work of massaging the face is not one that can be learned in two or three lessons or by means of reading a few lines on the subject. It is a study that takes both time and practice. Results will be excellent in all cases that are studied and worked upon carefully, but unless the work is done in this manner nothing worth while can be accom- plished. The system of massage advocated in this book is one that is based not on the pet ideas of one or two people, but on the strong foundation of the requirements of the skin as known from the study of physiology and anatomy. Not only the muscles have been considered, but the positions of the nerves and blood vessels have also been a matter of much study and as a consequence the method illustrated, when properly carried out, will indeed do much for the patient. The illustrations not only indicate from the posi- tion of the arrows just what direction the manipulations are to take, but also show just when the rotary motion is of most benefit, by the presence of the spiral. Most of the work should be done with the soft tips of the two first fingers excepting when in massage of the cheeks or neck or chin the flat fingers of the hand are indicated. The most successful masseuse will naturally be she who understands and practices her art in a conscientious man- ner. When in addition to the real interest she feels in each patient she is also sufficiently versed in the study of human nature to be able to give each one the most suitable advice, she is doubly fortunate, for she will succeed in instilling a 56 THE SKIN. sensation of confidence always necessary for the best results. In the previous chapter the importance of -thoroughly cleansing the skin has been sufficiently explained. By fol- lowing the directions given and remembering the impor- tance of using the proper ointment during the manipula- tion by the fingers, the preliminary work will be well done. In all work one must remember that massage is to the face what careful pressing is to a gown. Both processes preserve an appearance of freshness and obliterate unsightly folds. Any one who is at all observant, and alert to the possibilities of improvement, may obtain results by prac- ticing the rules given in the care of her own face, and thus proving to her own satisfaction the absolute correctness of the method. In beginning a treatment it is not only unnecessary but undesirable to coat the face thickly with creme. If too much is applied the fingers slip about instead of manipu- lating the flesh properly and no real massage can be given. Just enough should be applied to make the work pleasant, and more may be added from time to time. The creme should never be taken from the jar by the fingers but should either be dipped out by means of an ivory spatula and then applied to a bit of cotton to be rubbed on to the face, or a fresh ivory spatula may be utilized for each person, always taking out enough creme to do the massage. By observing this rule and by care- fully cleansing and disinfecting the hands, both after a mas- sage and before giving one, there will be no danger of carry- ing germs by carelessness on the part of the operator. Too much importance cannot be placed on careful adherence to these rules as in this way only can thoroughly honest work be done. THE SKIN. 57 The pressure exerted by the fingers should be firm though gentle and in no case should undue strength be exerted as the result would be to bruise the deeper tissues. The motion of the fingers must be leisurely. No good massage can be performed in a hurried or jerky manner. As a guide to the length of time necessary for the aver- age case it may be stated that at least forty minutes will be required for each treatment, allowing for the use of the electrolytic massage, both before and after manipulation. Work done by using hot towels in connection with the finger manipulation can of course be given in less time, but the entire practice is so wrong from every standpoint that it is to be hoped no really good operator will consider attempting it. In every face some portions will be far more deeply lined than others, and of course in these sections more work must be done in order to make the wrinkles as dim as pos- sible, while advice should be given in regard to any habits that might induce the presence of these lines, for often only a few reminders will suffice to cure the subject of carelessness in these matters. After applying the creme used it should be rubbed into the skin of the face and neck by means of a gently rotary motion and after a little of this preliminary stroking the real massage may be commenced by working first of ail upon the forehead according to the directions given. The lines on the forehead are generally rather obstinate to erase, as in the majority of people the habit of raising the brows continually while conversing or of squinting the eyes while attempting to do fine work has made the straight creases between the eyes and the horizontal folds extremely deep. In illustration (Figure 5) the proper motion for erasing the long lines is seen, and the tips of the two first 58 THE SKIN. fingers are used for this purpose, pressing gently but firmly on the flesh. The fingers of one hand move down toward the brow, while those of the other move toward the fore- head, thus passing and repassing continually while the proc- ess is continued. After a few moments' work the effect will be seen to be remarkably pleasing, as even the deepest lines yield to the gentle pressure. The vertical lines between the eyes are best rubbed as indicated in Figure 7, in a rotary motion made by pressing the fingers firmly upon the flesh and then describing small circles. In this work only the fingers of one hand may be used for the massage, though the two first fingers of the other may be used for keeping the flesh in place. When these lines show a tendency to spring back into place almost immediately, it is well to smooth out the forehead until it is free from lines and then paste bits of court plaster across the lines in such a manner that they cannot form again. This little precaution is extremely valuable and when ap- plied during the first part of the treatment often assists in the work of making the face appear better. The fact that the court plaster prevents contraction of the brows reminds the patient that the habit may be broken by the exercise of a little effort. The lines radiating from the eyes are apt to form the earliest of any, and often the deepest and most difficult are indicative of nothing more than an extremely merry disposition. Women who have much trouble, physical or mental, are also apt to have deep lines, while those with weak eyes are especially afflicted. In Figure 6 the correct motion for pressing out these lines is indicated. The flesh is held between the thumb and forefinger of the one hand firmly while the two first fingers of the other are used to rub down across the lines, and in a gentle rotary motion THE SKIN. 59 beneath the eyes. Figure 8 shows the manner in which the eyelid is to be rubbed, and Figure 7 indicates the rotary motion used directly below the eye. This work about the eyes is most particular and must be carried on very gently indeed. Where there is much bagginess and puffiness be- neath the eyes there should be a great deal of the cold water used in the water massage treatment, and the rotary motion should be very light, leaving most of the work to be done by the vibratile for the gentle tapping motion stim- ulates without stretching or pulling. The massage from the corners of the eye may be continued up to the temples, rubbing as indicated in Figure 7. The nose may be massaged as indicated in Figures 7 and 8. In this work the motion may be continued down from the space between the eyes across the tiny lines that sometimes form each side of the nose. From the bridge down to each nostril the pressure may be firm or light, according to the results desired. People with thick nostrils generally desire to have them made as unobtrusive as pos- sible, and the work of massage will accomplish a great deal in so affecting the cartilages that the thick appearance may be effectively subdued. The cheeks, as indicated by the arrows, are best treated by rubbing in the manner shown from the center of the face outward. For this work it is well to use the flat portion of the hands and in rubbing, watch carefully to see that no new lines are rubbed in around the eyes or temples. The deep lines running from the corners of the mouth to the nose may be rapidly rubbed out by this method. In Figure 7 the arrows indicate that attention should also be directed to rubbing the flesh below and directly in front of the ears also, as small lines forming there soon develop into per- fect furrows unless promptly discouraged. 60 THE SKIN. The mouth is peculiarly difficult to manipulate, both be- cause the lines about it are apt to be sharply defined, and also because the fingers are apt to slip away from the yield- ing surface. In Figure 8 the best method is illustrated. The forefinger is placed in the center of the circle and the thumb and second fingers are placed at the corner of the mouth and then drawn slowly toward the center. This may need to be repeated a number of times before the exact mo- tion is acquired, as the flesh is so flexible. The lines are little half circles shaped thus ( ) at the corners of the mouth and are best obliterated by rubbing from the mouth in the direction indicated by the arrows. The chin is massaged as shown in Figure 7, the circular motion may be done by the two first fingers or else the chin may be grasped firmly in the hand and a twisting mo- tion from side to side given. The flabby flesh or baggy portion directly beneath the chin may be made much less conspicuous by using the proper motions very frequently. As indicated, the stroking is to be done from the center down toward the neck. This work can also be aided greatly by the use of the electric vibratile, and much cold water in giving the water massage. The fi sh will become firm and solid and the tendency to flabbiness will disappear gradually under treatment. The neck may be rubbed, as shown in Figure 9, by using the four fingers held flatly on the flesh and drawing them back from the center always. Never attempt to rub the neck up and down at the sides, but always in the same direction toward the back. The deep lines that form back of the ears and run toward the front may be easily kept in suggestion by directing much attention to this spot in the use of the water massage. When the neck is at all discolored, as after the use of high or stiff collars the mas- THE SKIN. 61 sage may be given with the whitening creme, thus accom- plishing two things at the same time in the way of bleach- ing and removing lines. The finger massage finished, the vibratile may next be employed, and as shown in Figure 10 the tips are connected to the Galvanic portion of the battery and then the instru- ment is gently guided over the face producing an agree- ably soothing sensation most enjoyable to the patient. Although the illustration shows the connection as made to the wet cell battery, in actual practice this is not advisable and instead either the connection from the wall plate should be utilized or else four or five dry cells may be arranged in such a manner that the connection may be made to them. This latter arrangement is advisable even when a dry cell battery is in use, as it saves the strain on the cells used for other purposes. Following the use of the vibratile the cold water may be employed, always remembering the hints given before in regard to the tonic action of the liquid when used beneath the eyes and under a chin that shows a tendency to become flabby. The addition of alum to this water cannot be too strongly commended as it does much to restore firmness to the skin. In the use of this treatment there need never be any fear of injuring or stretching the skin in any man- ner. Continued use only tends to keep the flesh pliable, firm and fresh in coloring as well as in most healthy con- dition. In fact the flabbiest skin will be wonderfully improved by commencing this work even after years of neg- lect have tended to make the task appear hopeless. Of course, however, in this, as in everything else, one must remember that the treatments must be given at regular intervals, and the care at home must be what common sense demands, to achieve the most pleasing and speedy results, Figure 10. Use of the Vibratile. THE SKIN. 63 though if only an occasional treatment can be taken the opportunity should be grasped, for in any event improve- ment is sure to follow. If the face massaged is that of an elderly woman, or if the skin seems poorly nourished, the use of electricity is advisable in place of the mallets. For this purpose the current may be used immediately after the supply of cold water has been exhausted, and may be administered through the finger-tips as illustrated, or better still, by means of the vibratile. The face should not be treated by electricity for longer than ten minutes and the skin should be powdered as usual after the treatment is finished. Very severe cases where the lines are unusually deep and the skin, exception- ally dry in appearance, should be treated daily if possible, and a sensible diet, with sufficient exercise, recommended. Improvement is absolutely certain, though, of course, it will not be as rapid in older women as in younger ones. The necessary point is persistence, and if the woman troubled with lines is also endowed with a will, the work will as- suredly do all that can be wished. CHAPTER VII. BLACKHEADS, PIMPLES AND MILIA. One of the most difficult tasks assigned to the masseuse is the treatment of the loathsome pimple and blackhead cases so extremely common among young people of both sexes. The demand for this work has never been so great as it is at the present time, for it is only within the past few years that people have realized that affections of this kind could be termed skin diseases rather than blood disorders. Still, notwithstanding the interest manifested in the work, comparatively few of the operators even in the largest cities either understand or practice the art of improving skins so afflicted. In fact, even well-informed parents so far forget their knowledge of physiology as to declare the blackheads should not be removed, but allowed to "run their course." Their awakening has been indeed bitter, for ordinarily the result of neglect in these cases terminates in most repulsive erup- tions of pimples filled with pus, causing the skin to appear as though it were dotted with festered lumps. In many in- stances the flesh has become permanently thickened, and the complexion made dull and muddy by this failure to take the proper treatments. The great secret of success in this work is in the exer- tion of constant and untiring care. If all cases of black- heads were taken in hand immediately, and persistently worked upon until cured, there would be more good com- plexions to be seen, while obstinate disorders of this kind would indeed be rare. The term "blackhead"_ really is not one used by those THE SKIN. 65 who. wish to be correct, but it is so descriptive that it has be- come commonly accepted and is universally known. The text-books refer to these obstructions as comedones, while many people still persist in declaring that "flesh worm" de- scribes them perfectly, at the same time insisting that the pests are really alive. In point of fact, whatever may be the term used, these much-discussed and troublesome inva- ders are nothing but fat, white plugs, formed by accumula- tions of the sebaceous secretions that persist in blocking up the pores 'and thus preventing the glands from perform- ing their functions. Although at one time supposed to indicate uncleanliness, blackheads are so frequently found that the old idea has given way to another in which all authorities declare that they are caused by some peculiar local condition and do not necessarily indicate anything beyond this fact, though func- tional disturbances and lack of sufficient nutrition may be cited as disturbing elements. However, the majority of cases are found in young and robust people who are other- wise models of physical excellence, so this latest idea seems to be based upon sound reason. There are many varieties of these black plagues, all of them requiring much attention and earnest work before they can be persuaded to leave. Some are fine and so tightly embedded in the skin that it seems impossible to dislodge them. Others are large and coarse, and even protrude above the surface, leaving deep pits in the skin when re- moved, thus making much massage necessary in these spots. Still others seem to possess a tendency to fester, and upon pressure, not only the blackhead but pus comes out at the same time. All of them require the same treatment, for if the pores are to be made to appear as they should and the glands are to perform their natural functions, these 66 THE SKIN. obstructions must be removed and the applications of oint- ments made that will assist in the process of reducing the size of the enlarged pores by restoring tone to, the glands. In removing blackheads care must be taken not to bruise the tissue, and the habit of squeezing the skin between the thumb nails, using a watch key or any instrument not espe- cially intended for this purpose is to be strongly condemned. The use of the face steamer before the work of pressing these blackheads out, is also injurious, as the fat is extracted from the tissues by means of the intense heat and this in- creases the tendency of the skin to scar. The comedone extractor is provided with a tiny scoop at one end and is made with either a needle point or a knife at the other. This instrument produces the best effect, for it not only re- moves the blackheads easily by means of gentle pressure, but it also marks the skin but little, and never permanently scars or bruises the flesh. HOW TO PROCEED IN THE BLACKHEAD AND PIMPLE WORK. First of all, the face should be cleansed by anointing it with lettuce cream, and using the automatic massage and very warm water. All superfluous creme may now be re- moved from the skin by the use of some absorbent cotton, t and the flesh well washed with a three per cent solution of x formalin, using for this purpose a soft cloth or some of the cotton. The hands, of course, have been scrubbed with soap and water and immersed in an antiseptic solution, and the instruments cleansed as directed in the chapter on ster- ilizing. The tiny scoop on the end of the comedone ex- tractor is now used to press down at the side of each black- head and gentle pressure exerted in order to force it out. If it seems unusually obstinate it is best to pass on to the next one or else use the needle point for puncturing the little fold THE SKIN. 67 that sometimes forms over the black dots. It is best not to remove too many at one time, and not to irritate the flesh very much at first, as the skin is apt to be extremely tender for a time. Pressure about the nose or on the fore- head is rather painful and much care should be exerted when working on these sections of the skin. In Illustration 1 1 the use of the comedone extractor and method of re- The Comedone Extractor. moving blackheads is nicely depicted. After all that will come out easily have been removed, the acne cream is ap- plied, and massage with the finger-tips follows, pressing with the balls of the fingers, especially upon the parts that have been treated. This treatment is especially directed toward improving the nutrition of the flesh and is a most important part of the treatment. After about fifteen min- utes' work the bag may again be filled with warm water and used as before and the treatment finished by using the cold water. The work of treating pimples is to many so repulsive that they refuse to even consider it. However, when one con- siders the actual benefit not only physically but mentally that will come to the one who is properly treated, this re- pugnance will usually vanish, and instead a genuine interest in the work will be manifested. There are so many varieties of pimples that the very list of names would be confusing, hence in speaking of them they will all be classed under the very general title so com- monly used. Those found either in connection with black- heads or alone are invariably filled with pus and look red Figure 11 Using the Comedone Extractor. THE SKIN. . 69 and angry. They will sometimes appear in certain parts of the face, and after remaining several weeks will vanish, only to be replaced in a week or so with another pimple in precisely the same place and quite as obstinate as the first one. Other pimples will appear and itch so intolerably that it seems absolutely necessary to scratch the skin. The finger-nails thus convey the infection from one part of the skin to another and as a consequence the entire face be- comes broken out in a disgusting eruption. In all cases, the only way of permanently removing and curing these pustules is by observing the following instructions : The skin should be cleansed and prepared as directed in blackhead work, and of course the same precautions observed in sterilizing instruments and in preparing the hands. The sharp end of the curette should then be em- ployed to open the pimple and the tiny scoop used for pressing out the contents. After all the pus or cheesy mat- ter that will come away easily has been pressed out, the cavity may be entered by a fine-pointed needle attached to a hypodermic syringe and conveying a stream of dioxide of hydrogen. This must be injected carefully, a little at a time as the pus unites with the dioxide to form a sizzling white foam. The injections of the dioxide should be con- tinued until no more foam appears. The method of using this syringe is plainly shown in Illustration 12. As, in the blackhead work, caution should be observed, as to opening many pimples at a time or many in the same locality, for the face frequently is extremely sensitive and it is impos- sible to do much work at a sitting. After the pimples have been opened and the contents expressed, deep massage should be given with the acne ,cream and the treatment fin- ished by the use of the hot and cold water and the auto- matic massage and mallets. Figure 12. Using the Hypodermic Syringe, THE SKIN. 71 In case there is any fear about using the hypodermic needle, much good may be accomplished in this work by placing on the skin sheets of absorbent cotton soaked in the dioxide of hydrogen. If the blood flows freely from these incisions, so much the better, as this assists greatly in car- rying away the effete matter. Small pimples in which the pus seems upon the point of bursting out should all be opened and the skin covered with the sheets of cotton soaked in the dioxide, after pressure has removed all of the contents that will come out readily. In many instances, where the face is covered with pim- ples and treatments have to be continued for some time, the smaller ones that have not been touched will gradually grow more and more minute and will finally disappear. When this tendency exists, it is, of course, unnecessary to open them. The scars left from these incisions are generally in- visible. Of course many instances have been quoted where people have been scarred for life. This has been where the instruments have not been properly sterilized or where the patient, unable to keep her fingers away, has so irritated the flesh that the inflammation has persisted for a long time. Pimples opened in the usual manner at home by the aid of a cambric needle, or any other instrument that happens to be about, usually do leave a dull purple scar that takes months to vanish and in some instances may remain perma- nently. Professionals are so careful in their work and in the use of nourishing ointment on the skin, that after the course of a few days no obtrusive mark is visible, and in two weeks or so the skin is generally smooth, as can be seen in Figure 13. In a few instances, where the pimples seem obstinate about disappearing and where there is a dread of making Figure 13. A Smooth Skin After Skillful Work. THE SKIN. 73 a fresh incision, the use of the negative needle has been of much benefit. At least four cells should be used, and the needle should be thrust into the skin for some depth, making each insertion for about one-half minute and select- ing at least four points for the purpose. The mallets may also be employed after the usual massage, and the brisk tattoo serves an important part in improving the nutrition of the skin. After every treatment a little powder should be dusted over the skin before the patient ventures into the air, as following the use of so much hot water and massage the skin is naturally extremely tender. The results of these treatments are invariably all that can be expected when the work is properly done and there is no grave disorder of the system. Even where there are other complications the use of these antiseptic preparations on the skin will positively improve it greatly. Ordinarily the statement may be made that every case with no draw- backs in the way of physical disturbances of any impor- tance will be permanently cured. Even after years of neg- lect the greatest of changes can be made in skins that seem absolutely hopeless by going at the work systematically. In those who are young, and where the disease has not be- come chronic, improvement is often most marvelous. Unfortunately for both the masseuse and the patient, they seldom meet until every other method recommended by every authority has been tried. This leaves the masseuse not only with much work to do, but also with more to undo, for frequently the efforts made to abolish the pimples have been the very things that should, under no circumstances, be attempted. The masseuse who achieves the best results will be she who plainly and honestly explains to her patients the method she uses and who makes them realize that not onlv her 74 THE SKIN. efforts but theirs are necessary if the work is to be suc- cessful'. She must impress upon them that these afflictions have in a manner become "habits of the skin," and that like other habks, time will be required to correct them. She can make no promises as to the length of time required, for, as in everything else, it is impossible to definitely promise relief by a certain date, owing to the uncertainty in regard to the manner in which the skin takes the treatment. In some instances the improvement in two or three weeks is wonderful ; others require a month before much of a change can be seen, and all skins require treatments at intervals for some time, as there is often manifested a tendency to re- lapse unless the work is continued long enough. In small towns it is often impossible to find a good masseuse, so in this event it will be necessary for the pa- tient to do the work at home. Of course, the progress is slower than when the treatments can be taken from a pro- fessional, as it is nearly impossible to obtain the deep mas- sage except when given by another person. Upon this one thing much hinges, that when there is even the slightest chance to obtain treatments they should be taken in order to obtain the effect of the finger massage on the skin. Ex- tremely difficult cases need at least one hour per day for treatment, lighter cases require, say, two treatments a week or work performed every other day, while ordinary cases may be treated every fourth day urttil much improvement is manifested. After that time once a week will be suffi- cient. CHAPTER VIII. DIET AND DIRECTIONS FOR HOME WORK IN CURE OF BLACKHEADS. When work must be done at home without other assist- ance it must be performed systematically if the results are to be pleasing. One of the most important requisites is in the use of a good cleansing agent, for even after the pores have been freed of the plugs, there is often a tendency to- ward the formation of new ones. The ointments are twice as efficacious when readily absorbed, hence the cleansing agent must be used frequently and thoroughly to further this end, If the skin is dry, sensitive and easily irritated, it must be cleansed each night with soap practically neutral in reaction. If on the other hand it is not only speckled with blackheads, but appears to be oily and greasy, the tinc- ture of green soap should be used. This is made as fol- lows : Tincture of green soap: Green soap 45 Alcohol 4 § Ether 4 g Dissolve the green soap in the liquids and use by pouring a little into hot water or directly upon the washcloth and then immersing it in water. The cleansing must be reli- giously done each night and the special cream (acne is the best) should be rubbed in well with the tips of the fingers after this process. In the morning the face may be washed in cold water and the antiseptic lotion applied with a sponge. If the skin seems unduly irritated by this, the 76 THE SKIN. lotion may be diluted by pouring a little into a bottle con- taining some water. Then gradually the full strength- may be used. If the skin appears badly, and the patient feels embarrassed about going out in public the acne cream may be applied and rubbed in well and the vegetable powder dusted over it as a sort of disguise. This work must be done every night, of course, even when under treatment by a professional, and it will be noticed that the rubbing recommended has a remarkably good effect on these obstinate little eruptions, for very fre- quently, by applying a little acne cream and then using the ball of the finger for massage with deep pressure, the pim- ple that is just appearing will be persuaded to depart. The use of the comedone extractor may be continued as described, and at night before retiring after washing the skin well with the warm water the little scoop may be used by pressing gently at the side of each blackhead and endeavor- ing to remove as many as possible without producing much inflammation. The automatic massage may be easily used after a little practice and will be valuable in making the im- provement more rapid. The diet is most important and should be closely watched. One of the greatest skin specialists who uses this method of treating his patients and who especially advo- cates the comedone extractor and the deep massage is also most anxious in regard to the diet adopted. The most diffi- cult cases are placed upon a diet of bread and milk without too much bread. Little meat is allowed excepting where the patient is deficient in blood, and the following articles of food are absolutely denied in all cases : Pastries, cakes, rich gravies, salads, liquor, spiced food, fried foods of any description and all sweets. The articles that seem most dif- ficult to abstain from using are the sweets and pastries. By THE SKIN. 77 urging and insisting, fruit may be substituted for these dainties and the effect has been to so change the appetite that the forbidden foods have not been desired. Constipation must positively be abolished ; the woman or girl who expects to look well while in the possession of a torpid liver may as well make up her mind to be dis- appointed. In addition to the use of laxatives it is well to regulate the bowels by eating as much fruit as possible and also by physical culture exercises, especially those in which these organs may be affected. Drinking a glass or so of warm water a half hour before meals will also be most ef- fective, especially when followed by eating foods that are properly prepared. Bathing is most important, and a very warm bath should be taken at least three times a week, with a sponge once a day over every portion of the body so that all of the pores may have an opportunity for excreting the effete matter and absorbing the materials applied. When the skin is extremely oily, the bath made by adding the rock salt and ammonia to the water may be used with good effect. The liquid sulphur bath, also mentioned in the chapter on bath- ing, will be found extremely beneficial in cases of this de- scription. Care must be taken, however, in using this bath to wash the face with clear water both before entering and before leaving the bath. Electricity is equally essential and should be employed as suggested. In case the patient has obstinate pimples that have recurred constantly for months and years, after they have been opened and the pus extracted, the cavities should be entered with the needle attached to the negative pole. This should be done after the pus has been removed ex- cepting in instances where it seems impossible to press out the cheesy matter. In this event, the needle may be in- 78 THE SKIN. serted several times from different directions until the mat- ter becomes sufficiently affected by the heat to become softer and press out easily. The positive needle is not'indicated in this treatment, as the resulting scar is apt to be permanent. After the pimples have disappeared fairly well, and there is a desire to improve the nutrition of the skin, the bipolar method may be used as illustrated and the lotion forced into the skin, using a treatment that lasts for about fifteen min- utes. In addition to this work the vibratile may be em- ployed for the stimulating effect, though it is well to employ the bipolar method first. . The masseuse will usually obtain better results in the treatment of blackhead and pimple cases than the physician, because she spends more time upon the after treatment. All specialists insist upon the importance of massage as of aid in restoring tone to the skin, but they object to the labor involved, and after opening the pimples and removing the blackheads dismiss the patient with either no massage, or else so little that the effect is not worth mentioning. In this work every detail must be considered and every aid suggested intelligently employed, if the desired effect is to be obtained. The suggestions outlined here may seem to the casual reader a bit difficult. In reality they are most simple and the refined and sensitive woman who realizes the importance of possessing a clear and attractive skin will most assuredly not object to the amount of labor involved; and, when one contrasts the repulsive and loathsome condition that results from eruptions of this kind made even worse by the pres- ence of innumerable blackheads, no task will seem too ardu- ous if relief can be obtained. The presence of some disgust- ing disease is invariably thought by the multitude to be in- dicated by an eruption of any kind, while the semblance of THE SKIN. 79 uncleanliness is so marked that it is impossible to imagine a person so afflicted as really being clean. Actual practice so quickly proves that it is unnecessary to possess these pests, that any one who is sufficiently ambitious will devote every spare moment to the work, sparing no effort , to rid herself of the unsightly blemishes which not only disfigure her face but also disturb her peace of mind. MILIA. An affliction almost as discouraging as blackheads, al- though it possesses the distinction of being less repulsive, is that known by the scientists as "milia" from the word "milium" meaning millet seed. This name so aptly describes the appearance of the skin that it is indeed happily chosen for the tiny, hard lumps sometimes yellow and again pearly white, varying in size from a small protuberance to one the size of a large pin head, resemble more nearly than anything else, the appearance of seed scattered over the face. Of course these same scientific people who have bestowed this appropriate name have spent much time in attempting to find out why this condition exists, and have finally ended by deciding that it is purely a local affair, having little or nothing to do with the condition of the body. As internal medication seems powerless to affect this condition, it is well to consider the best means of applying the external treatment for each tiny seed, whether em- bedded in the skin or projecting above the surface is well protected by a singularly tenacious little cap or sac that must be opened by some sharp instrument such as a large needle or the sharp end of the comedone extractor. The lumps must then be pressed out and the cavity thoroughly cleansed to do away with the chance of any recurrence and the cure will then be permanent. 80 THE SKIN. The face is prepared as in the treatment for blackheads, by the application of a cleansing creme, and the use of warm water and the automatic massage. It is then carefully washed again with a three per cent solution of formalin, and the sac opened by a sharp instrument. The small cheesy lump is then teased out, and the cavity entered by a sterilized needle, dipped into a forty per cent solution of chromic acid. The sac is often surprisingly difficult to penetrate, and even after it is opened the milium sometimes remains obstinately attached to the upper surface, requiring the expenditure of much skill in order to dislodge it without injury to the skin. Naturally some discretion is to be ex- erted in this work, as it is often unwise to remove many of the milia at a time. Experience alone can teach how to judge each individual case according to its peculiarities, how much pressure to exert in coaxing these intruders to depart, and how many to remove at a treatment. Care must be taken to avoid any chance of a local inflammation and sensi- tive skins will be difficult to work upon long at a time. In some cases the face will become covered with tiny red scabs, after the milia are removed. These scabs must not be removed but allowed to dry and drop off, thus mak- ing the danger of scarring much less. In others, the milia are so small that the use of the needle or knife seems almost impossible. In cases of this description the finest iridio platinum needle attached to the negative pole of the gal- vanic battery may be inserted in each little lump for a mo- ment, and as a rule the effect is all that can be desired. In very obstinate cases the use of the electric roller is a very excellent supplement to the knife or curette, and treatments may be given every other day. After treatment consists in using the automatic massage' with warm water as before, followed by the use of the deep THE SKIN. 81 finger massage given the same as in the blackhead treatment. The same ointment, acne cream, is employed with very- good success, as the astringent properties are so marked that the places operated upon seem to heal more rapidly when thus worked upon. In this work as in blackheads the chief requisite is in persistence in a faithful endeavor to follow directions, not occasionally, but as specified. In addition to the local work it is well to bathe frequently in warm water and to exercise methodically. CHAPTER IX. CHLOASMA. The appearance of yellowish brown patches upon the face has not only caused much mortification but also the most strenuous efforts to banish. These so-called moth or liver patches not only appear upon the cheeks, forehead, upper part of the lip and neck, but are also found on various sections of the body, and although for many years said to have been caused by either a nervous or functional disease, they very frequently appear without the least apparent rea- son and remain quite as obstinately as those that are caused by disease. Many patches of this description either precede or accompany physical disturbances, also remaining long after the cause has disappeared, thus making local treat- ment a necessity, if relief is to be obtained. The coloring matter is, as explained in a previous chap- ter, situated in the rete malpighii and also to some extent in the corium, both deeper layers of the skin. The applica- tions of powerful remedies for the purpose of bleaching the skin have, instead of curing the trouble, augmented it by causing an inflammation which has resulted in an increased deposit of pigment at this spot, lasting during the lifetime and impossible to remove. If the application of such remedies had been continued only until redness appeared no such trouble would have oc- curred. Hence in treating any such difficulty care must be taken to warn the patients against a too vigorous use of a remedy in an effort to become beautiful immediately. In all external treatment of course the object is to have the material employed absorbed as quickly as possible and THE SKIN. 83 to have it so well prepared that the work shall be directed particularly to the affected portions. To assist in this process of absorption it is necessary that the skin should be in the most cleanly condition and this is only possible when baths are taken frequently and the pores are kept free from obstructions. The average person has about fourteen square feet of skin to keep clean, and in this surface are approxi- mately 2,000,000 sweat glands and 500,000 oil or sebaceous glands to assist in throwing off the waste matter. The daily bath will thus be seen to be a common necessity if the skin is to be kept as it should be. The masseuse who can really remove the ugly discolora- tions that make life miserable for so many, will find a great demand for her services. In every community there are many women who are mortified by the brown spots but who have been unable to remove them or to have them removed because of their ignorance of the best manner in which to proceed. Where the patient is in bad condition physically, of course sufficient attention must be paid to the diet, regulating the bowels and general treatment as well as to local applications of bleaching remedies. How- ever it will be found that in many instances those who apply for aid are women in excellent health who have tried vainly to rid themselves of the disfiguring patches, and who are most anxious for any assistance in their endeavors. Although the bleaching lotion and whitening creme are necessary in this work, the Galvanic current is also most important, and the following treatment will be found to give speedier results than any other : First of all the skin must be washed with a solution of soda and water in order to remove all of the fatty acids. Pure peroxide may then be sponged on if the skin is very dark and next the negative electrode wound with cotton previously saturated in the bleaching lotion may be moved from place to place wher- ever the discolorations exist and the treatment continued 84 THE SKIN. until a decided redness appears. The patient will of course hold the positive electrode in the hand. For the purpose of applying the bleaching lotion the carbon -electrode is probably the best. The next step consists in giving the electrolytic mas- sage, and here a strong solution of salt may be used in the bag, while of course the massage that follows will be that in which the whitening creme is employed. To finish the treatment the cold water in which alum is used, may be employed. The results of this work are often to be seen at the end of the first week, and in any event the third week will show such a marked difference that even the most doubtful will be convinced of the efficacy of the method. Warm baths must be taken daily and the diet made as simple as possible with absolutely no rich pastries or indi- gestible food. The bowels must be kept in good condition, and to assist in this process it is well to drink the juice of a lemon in warm water each morning and one-half hour be- fore the other two meals to take a cup of hot water. Each night the face may be washed with the paste soap and warm water and the whitening creme rubbed on, paying especial attention to the pigmented spots. In the morning after washing with cold water the bleaching lotion should be applied, diluting it if necessary until the skin becomes ac- customed to it. The face should be protected with powder before venturing into the air. Treatments should be given at least every second day until the spots have faded. This method has the advantage of being painless as well as efficacious and hence is popular with both patient and masseuse. In using it not more than six cells of the galvanic battery should be employed to com- mence with, adding others as required, for unless care is THE SKIN. 85 taken the patient may declare that the current makes her a trifle dizzy. Even those most susceptible to the use of the electric current are generally able to bear it if too much is not used at one time, so discretion is necessary. CHAPTER X. OILY, STIPPLED, AND SALLOW SKINS. One of the most disagreeable and trying afflictions is the condition commonly described as an "oily skin." The greased and shining appearance is so marked that nothing can conceal it. Drops of oil stand out in place of the ordi- nary perspiration and the victim is frequently so mortified that she dreads appearing in society, as the slightest exer- tion causes this sebaceous secretion to be poured out like an oily coating on the face and scalp and in some instances upon the entire body. The ducts of the sebaceous follicles are generally plugged with comedones and the surface of the skin fre- quently appears pallid and poorly nourished. The treat- ment should be directed not only to the care of the face and scalp but also to the proper care of the entire body, and the diet as well as daily bath must be made matters of much importance. The lettuce cream may be applied most liberally before using this massage treatment in these instances, as the un- guent possesses great cleansing qualities. When, after a few moments it is rubbed off, the amount of dirt that is found on the towel will be found to be surprisingly great, for the oily skin will naturally attract much soot and dust from the air. In some instances it is even advisable to repeat the application and thus cleanse the skin as thproughly as pos- sible before using the massage. In this event the solution of soda may be used in just twice the proportion and hence to every bag of water, one cup of this mixture may be added as the alkaline mixture possesses the same cleansing quali- THE SKIN. 87 ties exhibited by a mild soap. The water may be applied as warm as possible and if the face is extremely oily the first treatment may be prolonged to some extent. The skin, being thoroughly cleansed, the acne cream may now be applied, and the finger manipulation brought into play in order to cause this cream to be well absorbed, as it has an astringent action, especially desirable in such in- stances. The rest of the treatment may be given as de- scribed in the chapter on massage and the following instruc- tion given for home treatment. The work has much better results where the treatments may be taken at least two or three times a week, for the first two weeks. After this time once a week will be sufficient. It is especially necessary to restore tone to the skin and for this purpose the manipu- lation is extremely beneficial. The diet should be limited to simply nourishing foods and all oily articles resolutely cut out. No sweets or fats or pastries should be eaten, but the fresh vegetables, broiled or roasted meats, and fruits may be eaten in abundance. The warm bath should be taken daily, and if the entire body has this oily appearance it is well to add to the bath one cup of soda and one of salt, allowing the entire body to be immersed in> the water for some few moments and then using the shower with clear water. Treatment of the face will consist in washing it with warm water and a mild soap each night, the paste soap be- ing particularly fine in such instances. Then acne cream may be rubbed in well until every particle has been ab- sorbed. In the morning cold water with no soap should be used on the face and the lotion applied immediately after- ward. The results of this treatment generally become mani- fest in a very short time and improvement will not only 88 THE SKIN. become more marked each day but a cure will result if sufficient patience is exercised. Of course, where this ten- dency exists it is always well to watch the diet carefully and in all cases bathing daily will naturally be a part of the life. Stippled skins, looking as though the faces had been used for pin-cushions, are generally found in people who are troubled with this appearance of oil. In some instances the large pores have been caused from improper treatment of blackheads and pimples, and in all cases the daily bathing and routine just recommended for the oily skin will be ex- tremely beneficial. A simple experiment said to have a great effect upon refining the complexion may be made by applying a mask of absorbent cotton each night, first dip- ping it in distilled water. The mask is easily made by sim- ply taking one layer and cutting out places for the eyes and nose and mouth, then binding with tape and using as de- scribed. The use of the creme and lotion will generally be found all that is necessary, but the mask may be a valuable aid. SALLOW AND MUDDY SKINS. Why people in perfect health should have complexions that resemble russet leather is one of the puzzling problems that all of us meet occasionally. Yet, there is rarely a day that one cannot see a woman who might make a fine ap- pearance were it not for the sallow hues that make almost any color absolutely impossible. Cases of this kind may be wonderfully benefited by systematic work, but to be effect- ive it must be impressed upon the mind of the patient that as the skin seems to have this tendency naturally, the daily effort will therefore need to be systematic and persistent if the skin is to be kept in a good condition. THE SKIN. 89 Complexions of this kind do not need a skin food. It is not powerful enough to bleach the skin and will therefore be superfluous, unless there are lines to rub out, in which instance, of course, it may be used in connection with the whitening and bleaching creme. The masseuse generally has a difficult customer to meet in the person of the woman with a complexion that has been obdurate to treatment. Dis- couraged and disheartened by past failures she demands a positive improvement immediately, or she will not attempt the work. The first treatment is therefore a matter of much importance both to the masseuse and to the patient. If the skin appears not only sallow but muddy and even at a hasty glance as though it needed a good washing, in- stead of using the lettuce cream as a preliminary to the treatment it is well to wash the face thoroughly with soap and water and then rinse it off with water to which a little borax has been added. Then the undiluted peroxide of hydrogen may be applied with a bit of cotton, not forget- ting to care for the neck as well as the face, and then when the skin is dry the lettuce cream may be applied as usual and the massage treatment given. After the warm water has been exhausted and the flesh has been rubbed dry, an- other application of the peroxide may be made, and then the treatment continued. The manipulation of the face with the fingers will in this instance be done after applying the whitening creme, not the skin food. As the sallow and muddy appearance is often caused by exposure to the air, it is well to advise a protecting coat of powder before going out. This precaution will frequently keep the skin from acquiring the unbecoming color in the spring and fall. The home treatment will, of course, be recommended as consisting of the daily bath, plain food, and in many in- 90 THE SKIN. stances a good course in physical culture is especially bene- ficial. The whitening cream may be used each night after cleansing the skin thoroughly with soap and water and the bleaching lotion should be applied in the morning and again at noon if the face is in bad condition. If the skin seems to need a thorough bleaching it may be done without injuring the cuticle by simply applying the lotion twice a day and omitting the creme at night for a time. When the face be- gins to get rough again omit the lotion and resume the creme for a day or two. Continue this until the skin is suf- ficiently w r hitened. More rapid bleaching results may be ob- tained by applying the -lotion by means of the battery. In connection with the subject of bleaching it is well to explain that it is unnecessary to remove the cuticle in this process. Quite as good work can be done by systematic use of the massage and lotion and creme, and the results will be far better, for all those who have undergone the process of having the cuticle removed must also use most exquisite care of the skin for months afterward, as other- wise it will tan and peel and become utterly unmanageable. The process itself is not so complicated that it cannot be easily done, but the results are unsatisfactory and not to be commended. The skin of the face and neck may not only be bleached light enough to satisfy any one, but may even be made whiter than the skin of the body by using the ma- terials recommended and being careful to protect with powder when going into the air. By applying a creme when- ever the face gets at all rough and by discontinuing the lotion there will be no trouble with an irritated surface, no weeks of seclusion and months of care spent in protecting a sensitive skin, but instead a clear, fresh complexion in a healthy condition. The coarse pores and rough appearance frequently found THE SKIN. 91 with muddy complexions will in nearly every instance yield speedily to the methods described, thus making the appear- ance far more refined, for no woman can appear to good ad- vantage if the complexion does not bear inspection. CHAPTER XI. SCALY, DRY AND FLABBY SKINS. - Fortunately for the majority of womankind, there are comparatively few who are troubled with abnormally dry or rough skins. In a few instances this trouble has ap- peared in every member of a family, and from infancy, upon any exposure to the air, the skin would immediately look as though some strong irritant had been applied. Tiny scales would flake off in great profusion and the skin appear tight and drawn, with hundreds of tiny lines covering the surface as though acting the part of forerunners for wrinkles. A number of people have acquired this tendency after a severe nervous strain or upon recovering from an illness. The face frequently burns and smarts and when washed becomes red and inflamed, any application of soap making the condition much worse. No powder can be applied to protect the face, and even the slightest exposure always means an increased amount of trouble; the cases seem hopeless indeed. The use of the automatic massage is in many instances absolutely impossible, while in others it may in time so harden the skin that the trouble becomes much less than before. When the skin is abnormally sensitive the following method will be found extremely beneficial. The face and neck may be coated well with lettuce cream, and then warm cloths applied, using them as warm as can be borne with comfort. This process may be continued until the flesh be- comes uniformly pink, when the superfluous creme may be THE SKIN. 93 removed by drawing the softest of towels gently over the surface. Then an application of tissue food can be used and the regular finger massage may be given. Occasionally one finds a case in which the use of water at any time is actually impossible, as it produces a rough- ness immediately. In every instance such as this an oil must be used for cleansing the skin, instead of soap and water, and to get the best results it should be used as warm as pos- sible. This mixture has been found to be extremely beneficial : Six ounces of the finest almond oil, one ounce of spermaceti, one-half ounce of lanolin, and two ounces of witch hazel. It may be heated by immersing the wide-mouthed bottle in which it is kept in warm water until the mixture becomes liquid enough to spread well on cotton. Then apply and remove in a few moments in the usual manner. The mas- sage should follow, and the skin be rubbed thoroughly with the tissue food, following directions given for finger mas- sage. In order to protect the skin from the action of the air it should be well powdered before any exposure. Complexions of this description need constant care to keep them in good condition, and women who are so af- flicted should make up their minds to submit cheerfully to the inevitable in the shape of constant and frequent ap- plications of oils and skin foods in order to keep the skin smooth. The fact that other people use an application of this kind once a day or once in two days should be no guide to the work, for every woman must study her own needs and fulfill them according to the peculiarities of her complexion, regardless of what other people advise. FLABBY AND WITHERED SKINS. On many occasions young women have presented them- 94 THE SKIN. selves for treatment with skins that looked as though they belonged to women of seventy. In nearly every instance the beginning of the trouble could be traced to some severe illness or protracted strain or nervous occupation. Return- ing health seemingly does not affect the appearance of the skin in such instances, and hence much work is necessary, especially in the line of tonic treatments. The use of the Electrolytic Massage is here most val- uable and should be used every day if possible, or the treat- ments may be arranged as near together as conditions per- mit. Salt will be used in the warm water followed by much finger massage and the use of the vibratile, while at least two bags of the cold water to which alum has been added will be found necessary for each treatment. In all cases of this description it is well to use the Faradic Cur- rent with the cold water and alum on account of the stimu- lating action it imparts to the skin. When the flabby condi- tion has resulted from the use of steaming or frequent applications of hot towels more work is necessary before the desired results can be obtained. In any event it will require at least six weeks' or two months' work to give the skin its normal appearance. In the meantime the diet and manner of living must be considered also. Cold sponge baths should be taken each morning; a regular course of exercise should be adopted and practiced and all manner of nourishing foods eaten, while pastry, sweets and other indigestible condiments must be strictly prohibited. Where one is compelled to do this work at home the same general rules may be followed with great success, and as nothing but sufficient practice is needed to make the use of the cup possible, no one need feel that her case is hope- less because she is debarred from the privilege of employ- ing an expert in this line. THE SKIN. 95 The use of the galvanic current may be alternated with that of the Faradic if the patient desires, or it may be con- tinued to the close of the period. Although this treat- ment is mentioned particularly for younger people, it also does great things for those who are older and as a conse- quence many of the elderly women who have pride in their appearance take these treatments regularly, as the effect is so beneficial. CHAPTER XII. FRECKLES, TAN AND SUNBURN. The freckled maiden may have Titian hair and brilliant coloring and dewy eyes with long black lashes, but if her complexion is as spotted as the guinea lfen's her beauty is marred indeed. The pigment spots, as in the case of moth patches, are situated in the deeper layers of the skin, and are almost invariably made more pronounced by exposure to the sun and air. As a rule, those afflicted with freckles have unusually fine skins, and when free from these discolorations the com- plexions generally far outshine the ordinary type. In al- most every case most wonderful improvement may be made by adopting the best method of caring for the skin, and clinging to it until the freckles have vanished. The most difficult part to learn is that of constantly protecting the skin from the influence of the sun and air, as even two or three hours' exposure without the proper protection will almost invariably result in a fresh crop of brown spots. In some instances the effect of the heat and light, even when kept away by thicknesses of cloth, is sufficient to freckle the arms and neck. The treatment of these cases, whether the freckles are light or dark, is almost invariably the same and is best per- formed in the following manner : After thoroughly cleans- ing the skin with the water massage a mask may be cut out of a layer of absorbent cotton and thoroughly soaked in a solution made by mixing equal parts of peroxide of hydro- gen and lemon juice. If the skin is extremely sensitive and commences to burn immediately and looks blotched the mask THE SKIN. 97 should be removed instantly and the water again used. Then the massage may be given, using the tissue food if the face is extremely tender and the whitening creme if it is not. The treatment is finished by powdering the face well. If the progress seems too slow after the first few treatments the use of the galvanic current with the positive electrode saturated in the bleaching lotion may be employed, using the current for fifteen minutes each time. Work at home consists in using a mild soap each night with warm water, and then massaging well with whitening creme before retiring. In the morning nothing but cold water should be used and no soaps should be employed at this time. Immediately after drying the skin, the bleaching lotion may be employed by using a small sponge and thor- oughly saturating it before applying. If the lotion is too severe it may be diluted as required by pouring out a small quantity and adding the same amount of water to it. The friction at night by means of massage with the finger tips is most important and should not be discontinued until the freckles have entirely disappeared. Even then the whitening creme should at least be employed alternately with a skin food, using one or the other each night, and always applying a good powder before exposure to the air. The most obstinate cases of freckles can always be made much lighter by this process while ordinary varieties may be cured in a very short time. Of course, severe or dark freckles require much more work and it is because of them that so many women insist upon undergoing the "peeling proc- ess" each year. It is not necessary to remove the cuticle, as so many declare, though to thoroughly bleach the skin may, of course, irritate it to some extent. Those who wish to attempt it may use the articles advised and the galvanic treatment as well, discontinuing the use of the lo- 98 THE SKIN. tion when the face becomes decidedly red. No freckles can be kept in subjection without work. Those who have them must remember that this tendency is inborn and must be watched and guarded against the same as other blemishes of this kind. In some instances, as people grow older, this in- clination or tendency seems less marked, and frequently the skin becomes free from the spots, from no particular reason. The majority of sufferers, however, need to use constant care to prevent acquiring more freckles as well as to aid in getting rid of the old ones. In all of this work the habit of protecting the skin is the most important and care should be taken to avoid washing the face either just before or just after exposure to the air. The best manner to use a powder is to apply it after a skin food has been rubbed in well, and in order to make it effective care must be taken to see that the powder is one that will cling to the skin well. No am- bitious woman will be deterred from this work by the fact that she must be constant in her attentions, for she knows all good results require much and untiring application. TAN. The bronze coloring has been so popular for the past few years that some of the faddists have spent much time in acquiring a coating, that cost many dollars to remove. The desire to look weather-worn can usually be easily ac- complished, for few people need more encouragement than an occasional outing on the river or driving through the country with no protection to the skin in the way of head covering or even a coat of powder. Once obtained it is ex- tremely difficult to remove, and very frequently a thorough bleaching must be undergone before the brown shades van- ish sufficiently to make the face presentable if light colors are to be worn. THE SKIN. 99 That there is no necessity for acquiring this coloring may be seen by the scores of enthusiasts who spend much time on the golf links or boating with none of the added tints so undesirable in the majority of cases. The care of the skin necessary in preventing such complications is prac- tically the same as in freckles, and creams and powders must be used liberally as directed if the skin is to be kept free from defects. It is well to avoid the use of much water on the skin when out in the air a great deal, using a cleans- ing creme of some kind instead of water. The whitening creme should be used religiously each night and the Creme Celeste may be employed as a sort of skin food before using the powder, or the tissue food may be used for that pur- pose. If one is desirous of trying a few of the home-made concoctions, the strawberry paste and cream may be ap- plied for the purpose of removing the tan. The recipes ap- pear in the chapter on the making of creams, and are ex- tremely effective when carefully prepared. SUNBURN. Sunburn is generally dreaded by those who suffer from it, not only because it is particularly unbecoming, but also on account of the actual discomfort and pain suffered by those unfortunate enough to be afflicted. In reality, there are few things easier to avoid than this very trouble, as hundreds of people who have become enlightened can cheer- fully testify. The same general rules applying to the pro- tection of the face in preventing tan and freckles also ap- ply here. Where there is evinced a decided tendency to burn on the slightest exposure, it is best to use no water upon the face for days at a time, 'instead using the cleansing creme during the day and the tissue food or Creme Celeste at night. If much time is spent upon the water, the care ofCL 100 THE SKIN. should be redoubled, as it seems particularly difficult to avoid burning when subjected to the strong glare of the sun, and the reflection back from the water. If one has been unfortunate enough to incur a severe burn the treatment is simple, and consists of applying the most soothing- ointments until the skin is again in a normal condition. A very pleasing mixture, called the Traveler's Comfort, may be made by adding to six ounces of almond oil one of lanoline, two of spermaceti, one of white wax and one drachm of Balsam of Peru. Perfume as desired and use each night for massaging the skin and before ap- plying powder. If it is impossible to obtain any of the articles mentioned, it may be remembered that any good cold cream or pure oil may be used. If almond oil is not to be secured, olive oil may be applied, and if in an emergency the powder has been lost or mislaid the best substitute is found in pure household cornstarch. This simple remedy dusted on inflamed surfaces proves to be very soothing and will greatly assist in the work of reducing the inflamma- tion. The warm oil mixture under the treatment of scaly skins may also be used for cleansing the face during the day, though the other articles are usually amply sufficient for any case. Properly managed, the most sensitive skin may be kept from burning, no matter how great the ex- posure may be. The exceptions to this statement are found only where, either from indolence or ignorance, sufficient care has not been taken to insure a thorough protection from the sun. CHAPTER XIII. THE USE OF POWDER. For some mysterious reason women who are otherwise well informed have exhibited a most unreasonable preju- dice against the use of powder. They gaze upon the inno- cent puff with horror and flee from the attractively labeled box containing this cosmetic as though it were also marked "dangerous/' When some of these fastidious souls are ques- tioned as to a good substitute, the answer is almost invar- iably the same and one hears talcum recommended vigorous- ly. A distinction without a difference and one that makes the average woman chuckle, for she has tried the same thing and knows that talcum as a protection is useless. If the antiquity of the custom could make it more com- mendable nothing more would be needed, for the ancient volumes are filled with references to the use of cosmetics, and specially to those used for the purpose of concealing im- perfections of the skin. In fact, Job's third daughter was named Keren-Happuch, meaning horn of paint (Job. 42: 14), indicating rather plainly that there must have been some degree of favor shown this particular cosmetic in one household. Returning to more modern times, it is refreshing to learn that nearly all men have been wise enough to realize how necessary the use of powder is as a protection to the skin, and as a consequence the barbers insist upon powder- ing the faces of their customers immediately after shaving them, thus avoiding the dagger of irritation from the sun or air. For the purpose of protection the powder must be of a variety that will adhere well and smoothly, otherwise 102 THE SKIN. the face will appear scaly and rough and give the impres- sion of being coated with the material used. A pure vegetable powder is thus in great demand, for, in addition to the office of protection, the fastidious woman in- sists that it shall possess the very desirable quality of harm- lessness, and this is not possible when any of the well-known heavy, white mineral substances are employed. Rice flour, though much quoted, is rarely used, as it is difficult to pro- cure, and hence either one of the many starches made from corn, wheat or beans is usually employed as a basis for a mixture of this kind. The ideal powder cannot be made by the amateur or the ordinary manufacturer, as the process is so complicated that it requires a most elaborate outfit to produce the cosmetic properly, as in the many different siftings not only many varieties of bolting cloth and the employment of people who understand the work, but also the presence of a competent chemist as well. Of course, there are many formulae extolled, but the one in greatest favor demands the use of the finest and purest almond pow- der, orris powder, wheat starch and rice starch, sifted through bolting cloth several times, then tinted and per^ fumed and blended with a most delicate oil into a mixture not only soft and fine, but also possessing the quality of sticking on the skin as well. The sifting process is what really makes the powder — making a work much beyond the reach of the ambitious amateur owing to the expense of the different grades of bolting cloth required, varying from the ordinary mesh to the very finest. It is said that the best powder is sifted at least seven times. The tinting, too, is a matter of some consequence, and as there is never a skin that is positively white, the well-made powder should as closely as possible simulate the colors observed. The ap- plication of a pure, white powder to the ordinary skin THE SKIN. 103 makes it look as though it were coated with something like whitewash, the dark-colored portions showing through in a bluish shade, presenting a most unnatural appearance. The color most popular for use on all skin is that termed "flesh" and is made by adding traces of carmine, or carmine and ochre to the white materials until a peculiar chamois tint is produced. Powder should always be applied before venturing into the air, and especially when about to embark upon a boating, driving or any other expedition. The most practical man- ner of applying it is to first rub on some skin food and after a few moments remove all the oil that may be found upon the skin, then dust on the powder with a soft bit of cotton cloth, and remove all that does not cling well by rubbing a dry cloth over the face. In this manner the roughness, burning and irritation generally following upon exposure to the sun may be avoided and the skin kept smooth and fresh. Coats of tan are much more easily ac- quired than lost, and the girl who values her appearance will endeavor to preserve the most precious of possessions — a good complexion — while protecting a poor one from fur- ther defects. A pleasing and fragrant mixture that may be used after the bath for the purpose of preventing the disagreeable odor from perspiration from being noticed is made by mix- ing these ingredients together : POWDER FOR USE AFTER BATHING. Powdered orris root 45 Boracic acid (powdered) 1 § Sub-nitrate bismuth I § Corn starch 4 o Those who are anxious to try mixing powder that, though not purely vegetable, is still uninjurious, .may try 104 THE SKIN. the following recipe, said to have belonged to a collection made by the famous Catherine De Medici, who was almost as much envied for her knowledge of the cosmetic art as she was hated for her attempts to rid the world of those she xlisliked : Best Venetian talc 4 g Sulphate barium 5 5 Corn starch 4 § Rice flour 2 § Sift all together through a coarse sieve, several times, so that the lumps in the barium sulphate may be broken up. Then add one-half ounce of lanolin and one ounce of almond oil and sift again. Add to these ingredients sufficient car- mine and ochre to make the tint a soft tan and sift through three grades of bolting cloth before adding the perfume, which may be either oil of rose, nerolli or any other odor desired. The next four sittings will be necessary in order to make the powder fine enough to use on the face. A powder for which there is much demand is that made by mixing one of these strongly white ingredients with water and thus making a so-called "liquid powder." Although useful for the neck and arms when unsightly blotches or redness prevent making a good appearance, the application upon the face should be made most sparingly lest the skin be made dry and scaly. LIQUID COSMETIC. Oxide of zinc 1 5 Barium sulphate 1 5 Glycerine 1 3 Alcohol 1 5 Water 6 § Cologne Yz 3 THE SKIN. 105 Mix thoroughly and strain through cotton or fine bolt- ing cloth. Keep in a tightly corked bottle and apply with a sponge when required. Equal in importance to the proper application of the powder is the manner of removing it, and if the skin is to be kept in a thoroughly fine condition the' powder must positively be removed by a thorough cleansing each night. The most harmless substances may cause a great deal of trouble unless this precaution is observed. When traveling, a cleansing creme will remove the dust and the powder quite as effectively as soap and water. On other occasions the ordinary means may be employed. The respect with which this cosmetic is held by some people may well be estimated by the very general use it enjoys, for it is said of the modern maid that — She may live without love, never owning a heart, She may live without music, and drama and art ; She may live without having a sin to confess, With a calm disregard for new hats or a dress ; She may live without rarebit or lobster or chowder, But where is the maid who can live without powder? CHAPTER XIV. THE ART OF BATHING. To the ordinary mortal the bath is a matter of routine, to be taken at regular intervals for the purpose of cleansing the body. That it may have far-reaching results in the way of relieving certain conditions or of remedying grave de- fects of the skin, many are unwilling to believe. However, it is not necessary to convert, for just a little insistence in the way of prescribing the bath will soon bear speedy re- sults. The educated bather, and by that is meant the woman who understands just what benefits may be derived from the proper use of the bath, has her daily plunge into luke- warm water, followed by the cold sponge. In addition to this there is the warm bath, taken at least twice a week, at a temperature sufficiently high to induce a vigorous perspira- tion. If possible, one of these baths should be either a Rus- sian or Turkish bath, followed by massage given by an experienced operator. The results of this system of bathing may be seen in the clear skin and youthful appearance of the devotee to cleanliness. Her figure, too, bears testi- mony to the fact that rarely does superfluous flesh persist when the pores are kept free from obstructions and the body maintained in an absolutely active condition. Of course, there are numerous methods of taking baths and many improvements on the plain bath, all of which will be considered in order of importance. The first considera- tion is naturally the kind of water that must be used for the purpose. If this is extremely hard, making the skin feel peculiarly sensitive and irritated afterward, it will be THE SKIN. 107 well to make use of the following formulae, mixing the in- gredients and keeping a large supply on hand constantly, so that the effort may be systematically conducted : Borax, one pound ; aromatic spirits of ammonia, one pound ; soda, one pound. Mix together and keep in a mason fruit jar, using one cup of the mixture for the ordinary tub bath. Then in lieu of a washcloth nothing can be better, both for the effect on the skin and for the pleasure of using it, than the bran mitten. This is made by cutting out a piece of cheesecloth into a six-inch square. These squares may then be stitched together, leaving only a small opening at one end in which to put the bran. When filled comfortably — that is, just enough to make the mitten about three-quarters of an inch in thickness — the opening may be closed and the mitten is ready for use. The benefit from the bran is sup- posed to come from the gluten in it, which strengthens and softens the tissues. The warm water, of course, assists in this process. In a bath of this kind no soap is necessary to assist in the cleaning process, as the bran is sufficient. If the skin is at all sensitive after leaving the bath, showing a tendency to peel and flake off, nothing can be better to use for anointing the entire body than the following prepara- tion, made easily by observing the directions : Gum tragacanth i o Borax i § Glycerine 2 § Alcohol 25 Water enough to make a thick jelly. Powdered orris root 2 § Dissolve the gum tragacanth in enough water to make it thoroughly transparent and then add the glycerine and alcohol. More water may then be added as necessary, using the orris powder last of all. This mixture is generally 108 THE SKIN. named jelly of violets and has the advantage of drying in almost immediately, thus obviating all danger of producing a sticky feeling. In addition to the use of this jelly, after bathing it is often necessary to anoint the body with a good creme before entering the bath. In this case Creme Celeste will be found extremely beneficial. People troubled with eruptive diseases of the skin or obstinate comedones are much benefited by the sulphur baths. When it is impossible to take baths of this kind excepting at home, the method may be made extremely easy by purchasing a bottle of the liquid sulphume. There is said to be enough in one of these bottles for eight baths. The best way to use this substance is to pour the amount re- quired into the water that is about body-temperature, and then after entering the bath, have a sheet drawn over the tub and up closely around the neck of the bather. The warm water may then be added until the bath is as hot as can be taken with any comfort. This will usually induce a copious perspiration. Before entering a sulphur bath, the face and neck should be carefully washed with clear, warm water, and after leaving the bath the same precaution should be observed. Nervous temperaments are wonderfully benefited by means of the electric bath, and so great is said to be the curative effects of these baths that in many instances most stubborn cases have been improved rapidly by the prop- er amount of bathing. This fact should be of especial interest to the many who are afflicted with the brown dis- coloration termed "moth patch," for it is said that many of these most obstinate and disfiguring spots may be much assisted by this process. When the effect of friction is desired from the use of bran baths, this may be obtained by adding a peck of the A Convenient Faradic Bath Apparatus. Diagram showing Bath Tub with Movable Electrodes connected to Switch Board. A maximum of convenience and efficiency at a minimum of expense. It may be used in any bath room in connection with any porcelain or porcelain lined iron tub, the movable bath tub electrodes being placed in any desired position on opposite sides or ends of the tub, thus permitting application of the current to any portion of the body of the patient. HO THE SKIN. ordinary bran to the warm bath, and rubbing the body vigorously with the hands. Some people prefer to use oat meal in the bath, claiming that the effect is even better, while still others assert that common rock salt added to the water in large quantities and then used to produce a decided glow is the best of all. Of course, the difference in action be- tween salt and a substance containing gluten is too great to admit of any comparison. Hence those who prefer salt baths may use them for the purpose of stimulation, but not with the idea of softening the skin. The temperature at which the water should be used may be regulated according to the effect desired. In baths near the body temperature the perspiration ceases, no sweat is secreted, but instead the fluid generally excreted is retained in the skin. Warm baths have a relaxing" effect. They dilate the blood-vessels and cause an abundant excretion of fluid. Cold baths harden the skin and have much in- fluence in accustoming one to low temperature, but do not cleanse the skin to any extent, while in addition they pro- duce a shock not either agreeable or safe for those of weakened constitutions. A safe rule to adopt in order to avoid the danger of catching cold, or of becoming at all weakened by warm baths, is that of using a cold sponge immediately afterward, thus uniting the methods in a way that is sure to be beneficial. In connection with bathing, the use of the best soap is a matter of much importance. And, strange as it may seem, not one person in a hundred seems to realize what a good soap really is. The majority of people long for soaps producing great quantities of lather. Others insist upon finely perfumed articles and pay exorbitant prices for dain- tily scented packages. Wise people either cling to the mild and pure imported castile or use a paste soap that is nearly neutral in reaction. THE SKIN. m The harm done by some of these strongly alkaline soaps can hardly be overestimated. They not only induce a pre- maturely aged appearance of the skin by extracting the fat from sebaceous glands and tissues, but also produce more or less deep cauterizations. Dry or scaly skins are espe ■ cially injured by the use of such soaps, while people in- clined to wrinkle easily may, upon observation, notice that each application of a soap of this description is followed by the appearance of numerous small lines that indicate the coming of the deeper creases. The best of all soaps is the one that can cleanse with- out injury. It should be nearly neutral in reaction, produce but a little lather, and leave the flesh feeling soft and smooth instead of dry and drawn. When the ordinary castile does not suffice, paste soap should be used by rubbing it up with warm water into a soft lather. No soap should be used oftener than once a day, and many skins will not tolerate the use of the mildest of preparations, even as often as this, so in the use of this cleansing agent as in other things, discretion will be found a very good aid. CHAPTER XV. THE SUBJECT OF STERILIZING INSTRUMENTS. The masseuse who would do good work must not only understand how to manipulate the muscles, open and cleanse pustules and coax the signs of age away, but she must also learn and practice how to thoroughly sterilize her instru- ments for this work. The necessity for this knowledge is so great that it is strange in this age of universal information to find so many who neither seem to know nor care anything about this extremely important subject. Not only must the instru- ments themselves be thoroughly cleansed, but the hands of the masseuse must also be taken into account and rendered as harmless as possible. Soap and water alone are not sufficiently powerful to really clean any hand, and especially to make the finger-nails properly free from germs. In every instance there must be used, not only these ordinary agents, but also something stronger, such as either the 1-2000 per cent of mercuric chloride, as advocated in many hospitals, or the three per cent formalin solution used effect- ively and very generally for skin w r ork. The cleansing or sterilizing of instruments may be ac- complished by two methods, either by boiling for a few mo- ments in water to which one per cent of soda has been added, or by immersing in a ten per cent solution of forma- lin. It is a well-known fact that heat destroys nearly all germs very effectively, while chemicals are more or less limited in their action, though, of course, effective in many cases. The careful masseuse should be provided with a ten per cent solution of formalin and water, and after THE SKIN. 113 using an instrument should cleanse it with water and alco- hol, and then allow it to remain in this solution for a few moments ; for instance, there should be a little flat enameled dish used for this purpose, and into this the formalin solu- tion may be poured, using a fresh supply, of course, for each patient, and always afterward rinsing the instrument off with clear hot water. If the boiling process of steriliza- tion is used, the instrument may be cleansed first and then subjected to the action of the boiling water for, say, four or five minutes. This does not mean water from a tap that is extremely warm, but really boiling water, such as may be obtained by placing the tiny dish over a flame and allow- ing the water to boil vigorously. This process of steriliza- tion must extend to everything used, the tiny cup of the automatic message, the curettes, and the mallets and rollers used for massage. These last-named articles may perhaps better be immersed in the formalin solution, as the boiling water is not the thing for hard rubber or ivory, while the steel instruments may be subjected to the boiling. The hands of the operator should be carefully cleansed before she touches the face of the patient, and this is to be done by scrubbing well with soap and water and then rinsing in either the bichloride or formalin solution. The skin is always covered with a multitude of germs, some of them entirely harmless; others, undoubtedly, germs of dis- ease; any of them well calculated to make much mischief at the first provocation, or when they can gain an entrance into the skin, as through an incision. Hence before open- ing any pustules or removing blackheads the skin should be washed with an antiseptic solution of formalin. In order to prevent irritation this solution may be made by using dis- tilled water and adding a little glycerine, thus : Distilled water, 48 ounces; glycerine, y 2 ounce; and formalin, 1^ 114 THE SKIN. ounces. This solution may be poured on to the bit of cot- ton, and then used for washing and cleansing the face. Then the pimples may be opened with the instruments pre- viously sterilized, and the peroxide of hydrogen used to destroy the elements upon which the germs multiply, though of course this liquid may be of some use in destroying germs as well. The acne cream, to be used for massage, is an ointment containing an antiseptic which may by ab- sorption tend to destroy the germs contained in the pus- tules, and thus prevent recurrences ; hence the necessity foi deep massage after the contents of these spots have been removed. In using any creme, it is well to take the precaution of using from a small amount, rather than from large por- tions that may be made a breeding-place for the multipli- cation of germs by the careless masseuse who places her fingers from the face to the jar, and back again, times in- numerable. The ordinary skin food is rarely possessed oi any germicidal power and may thus be made a medium of much danger. Hence care should be taken to see that the cremes are used from small jars, and renewed daily, or oftener if neces- sary, to invariably use bits of absorbent cotton for remov- ing the creme and applying to the face, and if it has been impossible to get enough the first time, to employ a fresh bit of cotton each time the creme is applied to the skin. In applying powder this same precaution should be ob- served, and the powder should be sifted on to the fresh bit of cotton used for each patient, instead of dipping the cot- ton into the box. Instruments should be wrapped in cotton to protect the points and edges and kept away out of sight, not lying where dust and floating impurities in the air may cover THE SKIN. 115 them, but in some good case or drawer, where they will be free from more than the ordinary amount of dust. The cotton used should be kept in a metallic receptacle or drawer and not exposed to the air and dust, and the supply of towels or articles used should always be kept out of sight as much as possible, so that the paraphernalia may be kept fresh and attractive. So with the solution and jars used, the labels and out- ward appearance must be attractive. There is no excuse for carelessness in this respect. The appearance of any room for the purpose of skin treatment should be as scrupulously neat and attractive as possible. Every patient has a right to demand that all possible effort be made to keep the articles used upon her face and hands absolutely free from any danger of infecting her. The competent masseuse will need no urging to devote the time necessary to this work. Those who read these lines feeling that such precautions are unnecessary will do well to remember that each year is raising the standard ; and requirements for these respon- sible positions are consequently becoming more rigid. Op- erators who get the best results will naturally be the most popular, and will obtain equally pleasing returns financially. The skillful operator occupies a prominent place in the lives of women, for she means to them a powerful aid in preserving their complexions, increasing their period of enjoyment in proportion to the youthful appearance they are able to present. Many women are really young as long as they appear to be, and they dread the encroach- ments of age not so much because of the fear of losing their beauty, but more on account of the dread of the loss of af- fection and attention they think will follow as their ability to attract and please decreases. It is especially with the hope of impressing upon all 116 THE SKIN. women in this business the necessity for absolute honesty that these lines have been written. The more generally full knowledge on this subject is disseminated, the better for investigators, for then there will be fewer despondent and discouraged souls in this world, and more who are happy and contented. The woman who makes a failure in this work of beauti- fying others has usually no one to blame but herself, for in every community there are scores of women absolutely hungering for an opportunity of learning how they may best be improved. If a masseuse is careless of her appear- ance and has not tried to remove in herself the defects she claims to cure in others she can not hope to be considered particularly desirable. Another fault she may possess is that of gossiping with one patient about the defects of another. This is most disastrous and inevitably means ruin. Finally she must remember that a certain amount of public- ity is desirable and that cards, printed matter and a judicious amount of advertising are good investments, not a waste of money. We have known of no failures among women who were well-grounded in their work, punctual in keeping their appointments, scrupulously neat in appearance, discreet in conversation and industrious. In no other field is there found so great an opening as in this special line to day, for while there are very many people who claim to do the work, not one in a hundred is really well enough informed to do as she should, and hence there is ever an opportunity for the woman who is wise enough to realize this fact and learn her work thoroughly. The ideal masseuse possesses a certain amount of per- sonal magnetism that makes her presence restful. She must be alert to every possibility of improvement and THE SKIN. 117 strong enough to consider every episode of a disappoint- ing nature a spur to further effort rather than a draw- back to future progress. Each day will bring. to her fresh material for experiment and study, and if she truly loves her calling, she will find that her enthusiasm grows as she progresses into a full realization of the wonderful possi- bilities within her reach. The demand for honest, earnest work has never been so great as it is now, and the one who enters into her vocation with the determination to put heart and soul into her labors may rest assured that she will reap a well merited success. "Let your light so shine that others may see your good work." CHAPTER XVI. THE USE OF ELECTRICITY. The importance of the use of electricity in facial work can hardly be overestimated. This wonderful force can be utilized in so many ways for conditions so dissimilar that many people have been deterred from attempting to use it at all, feeling that the course of study necessary would be far beyond their means. Books of instruction possessed no attraction for those who would learn at home, as the terms used to describe the various peculiarities have been too complicated for the ordinary students. Ill describing the use of electricity as of service to the worker who wishes to benefit her fellow being by removing disfiguring moles, hairy growths or bleach the skin by means of cataphoresis, care has been taken to use only the simplest expressions and to explain as clearly as possible the most practical method of obtaining the desired effect. The use of the electric current' should be understood by every one who attempts to do good work in massage or scalp treatment, for by it results of the most pleasing nature are obtained. In view of the many misapprehensions regarding this universal remedy, it may be well to explain by means of an experiment familiar to all how easily this current can be produced. When a person walks rapidly over a woolen carpet or shuffles the feet quickly over any substance of this kind, and then touches a dry, stationary object or the dry skin of another person, a spark results, passing between the two points of contact. The friction upon the carpet charges the body with one kind of electricity, while the stationary object is charged with the opposite kind. THE SKIN. 119 This current may also be produced in other manners, and as it is necessary to have it furnished continuously, as well as to provide means to convey it from this point in a uniform way by a proper medium, experiment has resulted in the invention of batteries. In these the current is either caused by the immersion of certain metals in fluid or by the contact of certain metals in which the chemical changes resulting from union are powerful enough to create an electrical disturbance that can be utilized for the purpose of treatment, and from whence it may be conveyed by means of the conducting cords/ In the experiment mentioned the body from which the electric spark originated would repre- sent the positive pole, while that to which it was directed would be the negative. *>p~_ The simplest form of galvanic cell *[ consists of two pieces of dissimilar C |||p^^||6^ metals, partially immersed in diluted ^^B^JHa sulphuric acid. The illustration shows llilMli a single galvanic cell composed of ^^jifflBBH I zinc and carbon plates. When these IMl piJ|jjlM^l] p plates are insulated from each other there is no action betweed them; but when they be connected by a wire, chemical action at once begins at the surface of the zinc, electricity is generat- ed, which passes across the liquid to the carbon. The zinc is known as the negative element and the carbon as the positive element. The current of electricity passes through the fluid from the zinc to the carbon and from the carbon passes along the wire back to the zinc, thus completing the circuit. The current generated in the battery cell always takes this direction, hence the current from the carbon pole is always positive and the current from the zinc pole is always negative. If this fact is kept well in mind there 120 THE SKIN. need never be any doubt or fear about using either the posi- tive or the negative, whichever may be desired or indicated as necessary in any particular treatment. When six cells or twelve cells are used the current is continuous from the zinc of the last cell of the series, wheth- er it be six or twelve, through the fluid to the carbon, and by means of the wire to the zinc of the next cell, and so on through the entire series, finally emerging from the carbon of the first cell through the copper wire back to the zinc of the last cell, six or twelve, as the case may be. Now if the copper wire connecting carbon of cell "one" with the zinc of cell "twelve" be cut and a living body (the patient) be placed in the circuit, the patient then becomes a part of the circuit; if the right hand is holding the wire from the carbon, then the positive current is entering the body through the right hand and the negative current is passing out of the body through the left hand and back through the wire to the battery. Or, as in practice, if the sponge or inert pole is connected with the wire or conducting cord from the carbon and the needle or active pole is connected with the conducting cord from the zinc, then the needle be- comes the negative pole and is properly connected for nega- tive electrolysis. The quantity of current from one cell is as great as the quantity from six or twelve cells ; but the penetrating power is increased by each additional cell; and just as we add two or four or six horses to overcome the resistance of mud or hill or heavy weight of load, so we add two or three or six or twelve cells to overcome the resistance of the human body and secure sufficient force or push (electro-motive force — E. M. F.) to force the current through the resistance interposed. For practical work a good battery is necessary, and THE SKIN. 121 as there are many forms advocated, it may be well to state the points to be considered. In all work of this kind it is not only necessary to secure a continuous current, but also to have it as painless as possible. The operator who has wished to own a portable dry cell battery combining the Faradic and Galvanic current has been unable to find anything of the kind until recently when the machine illustrated on this page was brought out. In this, twelve cells are used for the Galvanic work and two are allowed for the Faradic. It is so constructed 122 THE SKIN. that either portion may be repaired or changed without disturbing the other, while the aid of a small switch circle makes the increase or decrease of active cells an easy mat- ter. For a beginner this battery will be especially good, for while it is quite all that can be desired for all work of this kind, it is also so simply constructed that the most diffident novice will be able to understand and use it success- fullv after carefullv heeding the directions. The cost of re-charging this battery is but trifling, and as with hard usage the cells last for six months, while w r ith average use they will be good for at least eight, it can easily be seen that the battery will but seldom be out of working order, and at such times the delay will only be of a short duration, as the work of replacing the cells is simple indeed. As all cells either wet or dry, are practically of the same strength in the beginning, the same rules that have been given for the use of the other battery will apply in this, and as a rule four cells will be found all that will be neces- sary to use in the average treatment at first, although six and seven and even eight will usually have to be added gradually in the treatment of moles or warty growths, while ten and twelve may be used in giving the electrolytic mas- sage. For office work, or where. one uses a battery constantly, and can secure the direct dynamo current, a wall plate is most desirable. The great advantage in the use of this battery lies in the fact that it is always ready for work, never gets out of order, and provides a current that may be used every hour of the day with practically no deviation in strength. This battery also furnishes a current that may be used for any kind of treatment from the light work necessary in all treatment of facial blemishes to the heavier currents custom- ary where disorders of the system have to be considered. THE SKIN. 123 Where one desires to use simply the Galvanic current, the form of plate illustrated below, embracing Rheostat and Milliampere meter only, is practical. ESS Galvanic Plate. On page 124 may be seen the combination of accessories for the two currents on one plate; this battery plate affords the most complete office equipment. The use of the Milliampere meter makes the work far more satis- factory in many ways, as by glancing at the meter one can at a glance see exactly how much current the patient is tak- ing. Ordinarily, for the removal of hair, treatment of moles and naevi and other work of this description, from one-third to one-half a milliampere will be all that the subject can tolerate, although for bleaching the skin or stimulating it by means of the ball electrode as much as one and one-half or two milliamperes may often be employed. There is but little danger at any time of using a current that is too strong 124 THE SKIN. as the patient speedily objects to anything that approaches pain and in this way, if in no other, the operator is able to avoid any difficulty. The wet-cell battery is always in demand, where condi- tions make it impossible to use either the dry-cell or the wall plate. In this form the current is produced by immersing the plates of zinc and carbon into a liquid called a bichromate solution. A small cup accompanying the battery shows just how much each cell requires and the compartments are filled accordingly. MCINTOSH CHICAGO- Combined Galvanic and Faradic Plate. The most useful form is that in which both the galvanic and Faradic current may be obtained from the same battery. The galvanic or constant current is always indicated in the work of destroying the various growths, while the Faradic or interrupted current is advocated for its stimu- lating effect in massage, scalp treatment or anything in which stimulation is considered necessary. THE SKIN. 125 The author has found that so great is the difference in the capacity of people for enduring the current that a bat- tery of twelve cells is the most practical for everyday use in the treatment of facial defects. In almost all cases at least four cells will be required, while for the removal of superfluous hair the number of cells varies with the size of the hair, and in work on moles and other treatments in which the galvanic current may be indicated, the number of cells necessary may be six, eight, or even ten or eleven. Hence the author has found the twelve-cell combined gal- vanic and Faradic battery to be not only the most practical, but also the most economical, and as the Faradic current is now so frequently used, it is really securing two batteries in one at an ordinary cost. In the use of electrolysis many points are to be consid- Mclntosh Galvanic and Faradic Battery. ered, not only regarding the peculiarities of temperament and sensibility, but also in respect to the work itself. The current that is painless to one may be unendurable to an- other. Different sections of the same face also vary in this respect, the region about the nose and mouth being particu- larly susceptible, while the middle of the cheeks and chin are usually operated upon with no difficulty. Another singu- larity is observed in the manner in which the same current 126 THE SKIN. affects the same person on different days. For instance, in the work of removing moles, six cells may be used easily on Tuesday, and perhaps on Thursday only five can be tol- erated. Hence the careful operator will begin every treat- ment with a weak current to avoid the danger of administer- ing a shock. One of the most difficult phases encountered is not in the work of removing the blemishes, but in refusing to re- move many hairs or to work long on a mole at any one time. The patient frequently is so overjoyed at the pros- pect of improvement that she obstinately insists upon all necessary work being finished within a few days. The only recourse found is in the use of a firm refusal, not only for the sake of the patient, but also for the operator, as it is absolutely impossible for any one to work long at a time on anything so trying as the removal of superfluous hair and be satisfied with the results. One-half hour is quite suffi- cient to devote to any case at one time. Of course, there are instances where one, two and even three hours' work has been done, but the hairs have been prominent and widely separated and the operator has possessed unusually steady nerves. Then, too, the danger of producing a serious in- flammation must ever be considered, and this injury may easily be avoided by using the current in a conservative man- ner. Many questions are asked concerning scars, and of course there are instances cited where the disfiguring white marks were more of a blemish than the hair itself. Care and management will, however, almost invariably prevent any such catastrophe, for although destruction of tissue must result in a scar of some kind, the mark is so minute that only the closest investigation will reveal it when the proper meth- od has been used, and caution in using the needle for any THE SKIN. 127 length of time in the same location has been observed. Then, too, there must be attention to the face immediately after the use of the needle in the way of applying ointments and dusting powder to allay the inflammation. In one instance where a growth fully as heavy as an ordinary beard was removed, there was manifested a ten- dency to intense inflammation. The parts festered, and it seemed impossible to proceed. The result, was that so little work could be done at a time that the patient became dis- couraged and declared she would employ a razor or a depila- tory. The experiment was then tried of massaging the face well after each use of the needle, using for the purpose a zinc ointment and dusting on zinc powder afterward. The patient was instructed not to touch the spots excepting in rubbing on ointment, and under no consideration to use soap or water or to remove the tiny crust that invariably forms after the use of the needle. The effect was most happy, for not only was the inflammation banished, but the entire growth was removed, without a scar. The question of the reappearance of hair is rather diffi- cult to answer. Given the ordinary case, the percentage of hairs returning should be less than five per cent. In some instances this is, of course, a small estimate, but in the main it is an average usually observed. Then, too, one can never be certain that the same hairs return. They may be others springing up in the same neighborhood, or they may be hairs that have been broken off and partly dislodged by means of depilatories, plasters or tweezers. Nearly every one who is so afflicted has trie;d some one of the many meth- ods advertised, before resorting to the electric needle for permanent relief. At any rate, no matter what may be the cause of the return, the remedy is easily used and the effect of work conducted for a sufficiently extended period is to permanently abolish the growth. 128 THE SKIN. In cases where eruptions are complicated with the growth it is well to cure the eruption before attempting to remove the hair, unless there exists a chronic inflammation, such as found in Acne Rosacea, where the nose, chin and parts of the cheeks appear a wine color or bright red nearly all of the time, while all of the tiny blood vessels are greatly distended. In this condition the current may be used with benefit, for it will not only remove the hair, but will also reduce the existing inflammation. The work of removing superfluous hair is, of course, trying, but it is also remunerative, and as the demand for a knowledge of this process is continually growing, the mod- ern operator must at least have an understanding of this method. All necessary accessories should be obtained and used as directed. Each case should be studied and work done accordingly, bearing in mind always that a painstaking effort will ever produce excellent results. The experience of a few weeks will convince any bright woman that the field is not only a good one, uncrowded, but is also extremely interesting as w r ell as decidedly beneficial from a financial point of view. Before attempting to charge and use a zinc-carbon, bichromate, fluid battery the beginner will do well to heed the following directions: It is quite as necessary to know how to make the fluid and fill the cell as it is to make the proper connections and proceed with the work. Much diffi- culty may be avoided by sufficient care in mastering these preliminary details. The battery fluid is best made by means of the following directions. To make the battery fluid: IJ — Sulphuric acid (com- mercial), 3 fluid oz. ; powd. bichromate of soda, 3 oz. ; water, 16 fluid oz. ; bisulphate of mercury, 2 drachms. Dis- THE SKIN. 129 solve the bisulphate of mercury in the water ; then add the bichromate of soda. Slowly pour in the sulphuric acid and stir until the ingredients are dissolved, then allow the liquid to cool, as the mingling of the acid and water produces heat, and if the mixture is used when warm it injures the bat- tery. The bisulphate of mercury keeps the zincs well amalga- mated. Figure 1. Figure 2. Fig. I shows the hard rubber plate of a section (on the under surface of which is cemented a sheet of soft rub- ber). The binding posts which project through the hard and soft rubber screw into the brass piece holding the zinc and carbon couples. The rubber plate on which the couples are clamped projects over on one side enough to cover the cells when the zinc and carbon plates are placed in the drip cups. When the cells are not in use and the lid of the battery box is closed, it presses on the spring handle of the section (Fig. i) and holds the soft rubber firmly over the cells and drip cup. By this arrangement the hydrostat is made water-tight. 130 THE SKIN. Fig. 2 shows a section of six cells and a drip cup made of one piece of hard vulcanized rubber. The drip cup is to receive the zinc and carbon couples when not in use. By the aid of a simple current selector any number of cells can be used. See cut. To use six galvanic cells lift section I and remove the elements from the drip cup ; carry forward and place them in the galvanic cells ; then connect one conducting cord with Pi and the other with X6 (all parts marked P are positive and X negative). To use twelve cells lift section 2 from the drip cup. move it forward near section 1 and place the elements in the gal- vanic cells : connect X6 with P7 by means of the horizontal bar and the conducting cords, one with Pi and the other with X12. How to Detect the Galvanic Current : Put one sponge. well wet. in the palm of the hand and let the other be held between the thumb and the first finger of the same hand. A slight pricking sensation will be experienced. Those onl\ accustomed to the induced or Faradic current will be disap- pointed to find the galvanic current causes only a slight pricking or burning sensation, or perhaps a slight dizziness when applied to the head. • A galvanic current that can scarcely be felt in the hand may be too strong to apply to the head or neck. Acute sensation or shock from the gal- vanic current is only experienced when the current is sud- denlv broken. The bifurcated or forked cord is for the purpose of pre- venting a shock while changing to a less or greater number of cells while using the galvanic current. For example: Suppose you are using seven cells. One of the bifurcated ends would be connected with cell No. 7 and the other end hanging loose. If you wish to use, say twelve cells, take THE SKIN. 131 up the loose end of the bifurcated cord and connect it with No. 12 before you pull the other end out from No. 7. Thus all shock is avoided in the change. The same method of procedure is necessary to prevent shock when reducing the number of cells in use. To use the Faradic section of the battery holding the coil lift the section marked O from the cell and drip cup, fill the large cell half full of battery fluid, reverse the section and Figure 3. Figure 4. place the elements in the large cell C and the battery will commence to work at once, which may be known by the buzzing of the rheotome. To obtain the primary current insert the tips of the conducting cord in posts P and N, on either side of "prim." To obtain the secondary current in- sert the cord tips in posts N and P on either side of "Sec." Either current can be made stronger by drawing out the shield in the coil. To connect the coil with one or more galvanic cells : In a case of emergency, like an attempt to resuscitate a person from drowning, where greater intensity is needed than one 132 THE SKIN. cell will give, the coil can be connected with the galvanic cells of section i by means of the long, spiral wires, as fol- lows: Reverse the coil section, immerse the elements of section I and connect post A near the coil with post Pi on section i, and post B on coil with post 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6, on section 1. Sometimes the inexperienced operator will say: "I have fluid made according to formula, but I cannot obtain a cur- rent even from twelve cells. When I immerse the elements in the fluid the liquid boils or froths and the battery gets hot, the zincs are rapidly eaten up, but I get no current/' When such conditions are observed it shows that the battery fluid is not made according to formula, but contains too much acid. When the battery fluid contains large excess of acid the zinc is rapidly destroyed, the fluid bubbles or boils and becomes hot. Hydrogen gas is generated, but no elec- tricity. The remedy in such a case is to add one-third to one-half its volume of water to the battery fluid. Diluted acid acts very slowly upon the zinc ; there is no violent action ; the fluid does not become hot ; there is very little generation of hydrogen gas, but a good and constant current of galvanic electricity. The Mcintosh galvanic battery is constructed with its metallic cord tip fitting firmly into the metallic binding post, which in its turn is screwed firmly into the metallic bridge, and this bridge securely fastened by metallic connection to the zinc and carbon plates, so that when the zinc and carbon elements are in good condition; and the fluid properly com- pounded, and the conducting cords all right, it is impossible to avoid getting a satisfactory current through the elec- trodes when the elements are immersed in the fluid. DHaananiHi X in 3 O . 3 ^ CG i— i u 1) 3 3 03 > O a CHAPTER XVII. THE REMOVAL OF SUPERFLUOUS HAIR. The galvanic current is always indicated in the work of removing blemishes, such as superfluous hair, moles or warts, as well as in treating enlarged blood vessels and in curing the vascular naevi. In the work of .removing the hair at least four cells will be required to begin with, while ordinarily the current from six will be used. It is well to have both sections of the battery filled so that more cells can easily be brought into circuit as required. In getting the battery ready for use the compartments are filled by means of the cup with the liquid called a bichromate solution. This liquid is an acid that is very destructive, hence it is well to have the battery placed on a large tray of metal and while pouring in the liquid a blotter should be kept in the other hand ready to at once remove any of the drops. As soon as the compartments are filled the zinc and carbon plates are immersed in the liquid, the small metallic bar is fastened at the back connecting one section with the other, and the galvanic portion is ready for use. As a measure of economy in conserving the strength of the battery it will be well at the commencement of the treat- ment to allow the second section of cells to remain resting in the drip cup until it be found that more than six cells will be required, then immerse the elements of the second section in the fluid and fasten the metallic connecting bar into its place, and the relay of six fresh cells is at once brought into readiness for use. The greatest demand will be in the removal of superflu- ous hair. In this work not only the galvanic current is re- THE SKIN. 135 quired, but also a needle holder, needles of various sizes, made preferably of either gold or iridio-platinum, a small Hard Rubber Needle Holder. pair of forceps and either a magnifying glass, an electric headlight or both. In Figure 12 the use of the lamp is clear- ly indicated. If it has been impossible to obtain instruction «mi^ Hard Rubber Needle Holder. in this work the beginner who wishes to attempt the process will do well to practice first upon the coarse hairs found on the arms and hands of those inclined to this growth. The Depilatory Forceps. first trial will show that practice is the most essential point in good work, for not only a knowledge of the proper proce- dure is required, but also a sure eye and a steady hand. Magnifying Glass. Before beginning work the patient should be placed in a comfortable position, as near a clear> strong light as possible. 136 THE SKIN If the day is dull and the light uncertain, the head lamp must be used, otherwise the magnifying glass attached to a head- band will be found of great service. If the lamp is em- ployed the long cord at the back is attached to the street cur- rent and managed in the usual way. A slightly recumbent position is advisable for the patient, as in this way all the muscles are more or less relaxed and the tension is not so great. The cord to be attached to the negative pole is placed Head Lamp for 110 Volt Current. in the section marked N, according to the number of cells that are to be used. If four, then the cord is inserted in the second opening from the front, as shown in Figure 12. The cord attached to the positive pole is inserted in a similar position in the section marked P, and is attached either to the carbon disc or sponge electrode and placed in the lap of the patient. The object in using a needle attached to the electric cur- THE SKIN. 187 mm n Minium" 1 IlilllllllMI! Magnifying Glass, mounted on Head Band. rent is to destroy the tissue composing the hair papillae. Naturally, a small portion of the surrounding tissue must be affected by the cur- rent, and the problem con- fronting the operator is how to remove the hair growth with as little destruction of tissue as possible. It has been found by experiment that the negative current is by far the best for this pur- pose, and hence it is always employed, as the effect on the tissue is not only less severe, but the danger of scarring is not nearly so great. Note — When the positive pole is used, it is essential that the needle be either gold (not gold plated) or plati- num, as these metals are not attacked or corroded by the current. If a steel needle is used as the positive pole, a de- posit of iron salt will be left in the hair follicle, and a black scar will inevitably result. An additional reason for giving preference ahvays to the negative current is that negative electrolysis produces alkaline hydrates, destroys less tissue and allows the needle to be easily withdrawn. Positive elec- trolysis, on the contrary, releases oxygen acids, coagulates the albumen, destroys tissue and causes the needle to ad- here, making it difficult to withdraw the needle without lacerating the tissue. In order to destroy the hair, it is necessary to enter the follicle with a bulbous or pointed needle, the majority of the operators preferring the bulbous variety. The depth 138 THE SKIN. of the follicle varies greatly, in some instances being not more than one thirty-second of an inch, while in others it is fully one-quarter of an inch. In finding the follicle it will be necessary to insert the needle as closely as possible by the side of the hair. The difference in the sensation of touch when the right path has been entered is usually suffi- cient proof of success. At any rate, when everything is in readiness the needle is inserted as directed, and is continued until it meets a slight obstacle. There it must pause, while the patient grasps the positive electrode in her hand, thus completing the circuit. If the follicle has been entered, in about twenty seconds bubbles of hydrogen gas will commence to appear about the site of the entrance. In fifty or sixty seconds the hair should be grasped by the epilation forceps and a gentle pressure exerted. If the process of destruction is complete the hair will come away instantly. If not, the current should be continued, and at the end of a minute another attempt should be made. If the hair comes out easily now it may be inferred that the work has been properly done. In case it does not come out at the last effort it is well to remove it forcibly and then enter the follicle with the needle for about half a minute in a further attempt to destroy the hair. Practice on the coarse hair of the hands will teach more than words can, for in this work an intuitive knowl- edge as well as a delicate touch are wonderfully good guides. The selection of a needle is an important item in this operation, and the point should always be examined with a strong glass that we may be able to ascertain its shape. An ordinary jeweler's broach will do if the point be ground off on an oil stone, and its temper drawn by heating, but the bulbous pointed needle, as recommended by the late Dr. THE SKIN. 139 P. S. Hayes, a magnified drawing of which is here shown in Figure A, is best suited for the work. There are several very important reasons why a sharp-pointed needle should Figure A. not be used : First, there is a depression in the epidermis at the base of every hair, very plainly shown in Figure B. The bulbous-pointed needle will always find this depression, while the sharp-pointed needle is just as liable to miss it, and not get into the hair follicle at all. Again, the hair fol- licles are not always the same depth or the same direction, but the sheath surrounding the hair is tough ; in fact, it takes considerable pressure to force the bulbous-pointed needle through, and it naturally will find the proper depth, while, as Dr. Hayes remarks* u the sharp needle would, in many cases, penetrate the walls of the follicle and wander into the tissue far from the desired point, and failure rather than success would be recorded." Many hairs are removed with sharp-pointed needles, and many writers ad- vocate their use, but success is purely acci- dental'. Figure B shows a magnified hair shaft and follicle into which a sharp-pointed needle has been plunged and has not entered the depression at the free surface of the skin, but which has accidentally penetrated the sheath from without and gained access to the papilla. Of course, such hair will be permanently de- stroyed. By referring again to Figure B, it will be noticed that the sheath is narrowest at the top or at the point of Figure B. 140 THE SKIN. insertion of the hair shaft into the epidermis, which shows the necessity of actually following the hair shaft with the needle in order to be certain of entering the follicle. Again, the bulbous needle presents a larger surface with- in the hair follicles, the benefit of which is apparent. The illustration — Figure 14 — shows how the work may be performed. The connections in this, case are for four cells. The third cord, or section of the negative cord hang- ing down, may be used to bring another cell into circuit without disturbing the other connections. The head lamp is used in this instance, as the light thrown on the face is so brilliant that fewer errors in placing the needle will be made, while the ease with which it may be attached and worn makes it possible for the operator to utilize many dark days for working purposes. Caution must be observed in several particulars in this work, and it may be well to impress upon the beginner that, first of all, it is wiser to use a weak current for a long time than a strong current for a short time. In removing hair it is never advisable to continue the current for more than a minute or a minute and a quarter, unless the hair is very coarse and bristly. Of course, in this instance it must be used as needed. Too many insertions in the same sections should be avoided in order to prevent an inflammation, thus making work impossible for several days. By using dis- cretion in selecting different places upon the face the work may be continued for at least twice as long as where it is confined to one portion, and treatments may be given in this manner as often as every other day until the hairs are re- moved. After a sitting has been ended, and here it is well to repeat that one-half hour should be the average duration for both patient and operator, the portions worked upon THE SKIN. 141 should be well massaged with zinc ointment, or if none is obtainable, the acne cream may be utilized. In this massage care must be taken to use only the zinc ointment made for this purpose, as otherwise the effect will not be as good. After the flesh has been well manipulated the zinc powder may be dusted on, and then all that does not cling, removed by drawing a soft cloth or bit of cotton softly over the face. The patient should have it thoroughly impressed upon her mind that no soap or water should touch the places worked upon until the tiny crust has disappeared. Night and morn- ing the ointment may be rubbed in well, and if it is neces- sary to cleanse the face the lettuce cream may be used about these portions, using water, of course, on the rest of the skin. The importance of this precaution cannot be overesti- mated, for the zinc ointment certainly possesses a marvelous- ly soothing influence on any surface that has been subjected to the electric current, and in the author's experience, where- ever care in this respect as well as in the use of the needle has existed, there has never been one case of scarring. iG 3 -z CHAPTER XVIII. THE TREATMENT OF MOLES, WARTS AND NAEVI. The removal of pigmented elevations upon the skin is one for which the demand is continually growing. The use of caustics of various kinds was, in former years, quite suf- ficient to remove these disfiguring portions, but as the de- struction of tissue could not be limited to the affected area, the resulting scars deterred many from the attempt. In the use of electricity for this purpose, if sufficient care is mani- fested, the growths may be easily removed with little pain, and will leave but a small pit to mark the site. In some in- stances not even a depression can be found, and the skin appears perfectly smooth. There are so many varieties of moles that it will be simply confusing to mention them, describing peculiarities of structure and appearance. No matter which variety is found, the treatment is the same, and the negative current will be used for the purpose of removal. In Figure 12 the process is clearly illustrated, showing not only the moles, but also long, bristly hair, making the treatment more diffi- cult. In every case of this description the hairs must be re- moved in the manner described before working on the moles, as otherwise the use of the current might destroy them, and if allowed .to remain, trouble could result from the hairs festering. When there are a, great many bristles it is well to limit the first treatment to the removal of all that will come out easily. The next treatment may be given in two days and the balance removed, and on the third the work will be done as though the mole was to be freshly treated. 144 THE SKIN. This is, of course, unless a crust or scab has formed. In this case no more work can be done until it has gone. The use of the zinc ointment at home will hasten this process and the patient may be told to return as soon as the crust has disappeared. In some instances the mole will also have vanished and no further work will be necessary. ■ In actual practice at least six or seven cells are required, and in many instances ten and even twelve will need to be employed. The illustration shows but four, as it is wiser to begin with a small number until one has found out just how many can be used without inconvenience. The patient will hold the positive electrode and the operator will insert the needle into the mole in a vertical direction, allowing it to remain for about a half minute at each insertion and making from six to eight of them. If the current has been strong enough bubbles of hydrogen gas will be observed and the mole will appear blanched. Even the darkest mole will change during this work. If the surrounding flesh has not assumed a pinkish cast during this work the needle may now be thrust through in a horizontal position, having it nearly level with the skin as possible, and leaving it for twenty or thirty seconds. This process may be continued for two or three minutes, choosing a different point for en- trance each time and watching carefully to see that the nor- mal skin does not become reddened. As a rule, the work on one mole at any one time should not exceed five minutes, unless it is extremely large. In ordinary cases three treat- ments will be sufficient to cause the growth to. disappear, leaving but a red mark where the mole has been. By rub- bing with zinc ointment this color will gradually fade away. If the current has been continued too long and the in- flammation seems difficult to subdue, it is wise to defer fur- ther treatments for at least one week. In inserting the THE SKIN. 145 needle after such an experience it is better to use a weak current, observing the mole and the surrounding flesh to see how it is affected. If the skin becomes a deep crimson do not attempt any work, but wait until it may be used with- out this effect. The scab or crust that forms on the moles is either very light or a dark brown and may take some weeks to disappear. As in the treatment of superfluous hair, the patients should be warned against attempting to remove this crust and should be cautioned against irritat- ing the skin in any way. In the work on warty growths it is wise to use a larger needle, employing either the gold or the iridio-platinum, as the inflammation seems not to be so great when these metals are utilized. The dark, soft moles and the pinkish va- riety respond more readily to treatment than others, though, of course, there are also exceptions to this rule, and it is un- safe to promise results in any given number of treatments. In many cases two or three treatments have been all that was necessary, and in others eight and even ten and twelve have been found requisite. Of course, one is positive that a thick, warty growth will be found more difficult to remove, and will take a stronger current as well as more treatments, but cases that are espe- cially obstinate are so often seen that the operator will do well to explain this peculiarity to each new patient, thus ex- citing no false hopes and running no risk of disappointing them. The statement that the moles may positively be re- moved though the number of treatments cannot be told is usually sufficient to encourage a desire to have the work done. Nervous patients must be especially cautioned against touching the portions operated upon, as in this manner many scars are caused. The positive request that nothing 146 THE SKIN. but the ointment touch the spots will usually result in a very small pit to mark the site of the mole. This spot will gradually grow smaller until in a short time it is barely perceptible. Warts are removed in the same manner as moles, but as the substance composing them is dry and hard to pene- trate, it is wiser to use a larger needle, while the current may be employed for a longer time. Ten and even fifteen minutes may be employed in the treatment of large growths, and the same rule that applies to the moles may be used here, for as soon as the surrounding tissue is at all affected the use of the current must be stopped. In connection with the removal of moles and warts it is well to be extremely cautious in the use of the right pole. There are several ways of telling which is right, aside from the fact that the sections are marked either negative or positive, but as too many directions are more confusing than none, the ones that follow will be sufficient. With the nega- tive pole, one may observe the ease with which it enters or is removed from a growth. Another proof is found in the bubbles of hydrogen gas forming about the needle. The use of the positive pole is shown by the way in which the tissue clings to the needle, and if the steel needle is used, by the black mark that is left in the skin, caused by the oxida- tion of the metal. Thus a careless operator may remove a growth, but leave in its place a mark that shows the error in treatment. In the work of removing nsevi, or wine marks, one of two methods may be employed. If the discoloration is small, the platinum needle may be used, attached, of course, to the negative pole. This needle should be inserted first in the center of the growth, and then at least five punctures should be made in the tiny capillaries which radiate from THE SKIN. 147 this source. Should the growth be larger, the second method may be employed. This calls for the use of the needle disc, and in this method the entire area is treated by a single application of the numerous points. In some in- stances,, much blood escapes from the tiny apertures. This generally lasts but for a few moments, and is of no conse- quence. If, however, it seems desirable to alleviate this con- dition, the application of the positive electrode by means of a platinum needle will almost instantly produce the desired result. MMNTOSH B.A.O.CO. CHICAGO. Needle Disc. For the removal of "Pigmentary Naevus" or wine marks. IMPORTANT FEATURES OF AN OUTFIT. The three features which are considered by most derma- tologists in the selection of a battery and outfit for this class of work are, in their respective importance ; Reliability, sim- plicity and portability. The twelve-cell fluid battery must ever hold the palm for entire reliability, but there are many operators who will insist upon the convenience of the simple and more easily portable dry cell battery, and to all such we commend the Mcintosh dry cell electrolysis battery. In designing this battery all of these points have received due considera- tion. It is fitted with six Columbia No. 4 dry cells — cells which we have found to be the most reliable. With ordinary use and proper care they should last for from six months to a year. 148 THE SKIN. DIRECTIONS. The sponge electrode, well moistened, should be at- tached to one end of the conducting cord, and the tip on the opposite end of the cord should be inserted in the socket marked + (plus). This sign always indicates the positive pole. Mcintosh Dry Cell Electrolysis Battery. The needle holder should be attached to the conducting cord and the free end of the cord should be attached to the post corresponding to the number of cells it is desired to use; post "i" for one cell, post "2" for two cells, post "3" THE SKIN. 149 for three cells, etc. It will be found that three or four cells are sufficient to perform any ordinary work. When both the sponge electrode and the needle come in contact with the patient the circuit is completed. 5C be .S CHAPTER XIX. BLANCHING THE SKIN, DISCOLORATIONS AND USE OF FARADIC CURRENT. A most mortifying condition, and one frequently en- countered, is that in which the nose assumes a most decided- ly red hue, varying from the lightest tint to deep purple. Close examination generally reveals a network of bright cap- illaries traversing the nose and cheeks for a short distance. The use of the electric needle is here found most excellent in results and it should be employed without hesitation. In this treatment the opinions of the various operators have been far from uniform, as some insist that the positive pole shall be employed, while others are equally firm in their praise of the negative. However, in actual practice, the au- thor has found that the negative pole filled all requirements. It is best used by introducing the needle into the blood ves- sel and allowing it to penetrate a certain distance, then closing the circuit as usual by having the patient clasp the positive electrode in her hand. It is wisest to choose the largest vessel in beginning the work, as the destruction of this will also affect the tiny branches, and fewer insertions will thus be required. But a short treatment will be neces- sary for cases of this kind, and in no other trouble is the benefit more readily seen. When the flesh seems reddened and inflamed without the dilation of the capillaries, much can be done by applying the electrodes as shown in Figure 16. The absorbent cotton is moistened before being placed in the electrodes, and the current may be continued as long and as strong as the pa- tient can endure it. The skin will become extremely red 152 THE SKIN. after a time, and the burning sensation will be experienced. Ten minutes is long enough for a treatment, and for some time after it is ended the redness will persist, but will finally give place to a much lighter appearance for some hours. Treatments for this trouble should be given at least every other day for two or three weeks until the im- provement has become permanent. This work is especially beneficial after blackheads and pimples have been removed from the face, and it is neces- sary to improve the nutrition of the skin. In acne rosacea this method is much used and is extremely efficacious. Of course, if the capillaries are dilated they are to be treated as directed, and the bi-polar method used afterward. In the use of the electrodes upon the face or near the head care must be taken, as in other cases, to commence with fewer cells, as some people are so sensitive that they complain of dizziness when electricity is used. If the pa- tient is extremely nervous and is subject to headache, one of the electrodes may be placed at the back of the neck and the other upon the face, thus causing a general as well as local effect, and sometimes improving the physical condi- tion as well as the nutrition of the skin. HOW TO REMOVE DISCOLORATIONS. Many times there will be a demand for something that will quickly whiten or bleach some portion of the skin, and the use of electricity has in such instances been particularly beneficial, for by its aid the substances to be employed may be forced into the skin, thus affecting directly the portions that require treatment. The most obstinate cases of moth patch and freckles have been speedily affected by this method when other means have failed, while in any process the re- sults are more rapidly attained. THE SKIX. 153 Experiments have proved that by moistening electrodes with certain substances and applying them to the unbroken skin, making the current sufficiently strong, the materials have been forced into circulation. For instance, concentrated solutions of sulphate of quinine and iodide of potassium can be detected in the urine thirty minutes after they have been applied to the skin. The amount detected after four or five hours is even greater, showing that the process has been going on steadily. In all of this work the idea is. of course, to cause the drugs to enter the circulation. In bleaching the skin there is only a desire to cause the fluid to penetrate a certain distance in order to remove the discolorations. Great care must be taken to select liquids that can be used with the positive pole, as otherwise the work will be useless. The bleaching lotion mentioned elsewhere has been found most excellent for this purpose and may be used by moistening the cotton thoroughly and placing it in the positive electrode. The negative electrode may be used with cotton moistened with salt and water and held on some indifferent portion of the skin, or as indicated in Figure 17. At least fifteen minutes may be spent for each treatment and the current from six cells may be em- ployed to begin with, gradually increasing them to ten as desired. Where the effect of a general bleaching is desired the current may be used longer, say twenty minutes, chang- ing the poles, instead of using the positive alone, by sub- stituting the negative occasionally. Treatments of this kind are better given after the water massage has been used, and will be found to be most effective when they are given at least three times a week. Mild discolorations may be re- moved with greater ease and will demand far fewer treat- ments. Figure 17. . Massage with Use of the Faradic Current. THE SKIN. 155 USE OF ELECTRICITY IN MASSAGE. In massage of the skin, where there is a desire to stim- ulate, the Faradic current is usually employed. In addition to the desired effect there is a pleasant tingling sensation, which to many people is really most soothing. Neuralgic pains of the face and head are quickly relieved by this cur- rent, while nervous headaches vanish so speedily that the cure seems remarkable. The Faradic portion of the battery is used much as the galvanic section. The current is produced by immersing the plates in the solution, and the fact that this portion is in working order may be told by the humming, buzzing noise that commences as soon as the plates are in position. The current is utilized by attaching the conducting cords to the posts marked P and N and increasing the strength if neces- sary by extending the little shield that projects from the right of the coil. In massage work the patient holds one electrode in her hand, while the operator fastens the cord to her wrist electrode, as shown in Illustration 17. The current thus passes through the fingers of the operator to the face of the patient. The direc- tions in the rules for massage may be observed here, being careful not to extend the use of the current for longer' than twenty minutes at any time. A way of uniting the cleansing and stimulating treat- ment in one operation may easily be practiced by the use of the same apparatus just as described and applying the Wrist Electrode. Figure 18. Use of Massage Roller. THE SKIN. 157 water massage at the same time. This can be easily done and is considered an exceedingly beneficial treatment. The current used in this method will need to be very light, as otherwise the shock will be too great. The massage roller, Figure 18, may be used by attaching The Massage Roller. it to the conducting cord and applying as it may most be needed. Of course, in all of this work the positive pole is the one to be applied to the skin for the purpose of stimula- tion, while the negative electrode is either held stationary upon the skin or is clasped in the hand. The vibratile is a most excellent article for use in this The Vibratile. work, and is easily managed, as shown by Figure 10. It is connected to at least four of the galvanic cells and is ap- plied by gently drawing it over the face, causing a stimulat- ing effect difficult to describe. The rapid interruptions cause vibrations deep enough to affect the muscles power- 158 . THE SKIN. fully. This instrument is particularly beneficial in the treatment of flabby skins, the reduction of a fat neck and also in the stimulation or development of the breast. The faradone, as illustrated in Figure 19, is also a val- uable adjunct to facial work. It is generally used in the treatment of flabby skins, and as shown may be utilized for pressing out the deep creases in the forehead. The re- markable results in restoring tone to the skin by the use of this instrument has made it exceedingly popular with the best operators. As indicated in the illustration, • it is used with the Faradic current ; however, in some instances, the connections ordinarily used will not produce sufficient cur- rent to give the desired effect. In case the connections to the secondary binding posts do not produce a sufficiently powerful current, it may be increased by this method. One cord may be attached as usual from the negative secondary binding post to the neurotone, while the other bifurcated cord may be attached to both the positive secondary and primary binding posts, making the connection to the neuro- tone as before. The Faradic current is also employed with very pleasing Figure 19. Use of the Faradone. 160 THE SKIN. results in the treatment of the scalp, and here it acts as a most reliable tonic, promoting the growth of the hair to a remarkable degree and improving the condition of the scalp. In Figure 27 the use of the electric hair brush is shown, and this is, perhaps, the favorite method for admin- istering the current. If the bristles seem a little too sharp and the patient is sensitive the tips of the fingers may be used on the scalp after the wrist electrode has been con- nected. In this way the current will have a milder effect. There are many other ways of using these currents, but as each operator has her own particular class of people to treat, she soon becomes accustomed to the methods best suited to her work and uses nothing else. In the use of electricity the same rule applies and only experiment and study can teach which is best suited for her purpose. With the experience acquired through persistent application and study any clever woman can soon achieve marked success in this field. CHAPTER XX. THE CARE OF THE HANDS. The woman who wishes to preserve the beauty of her hands can easily do so if she will devote at least five min- utes a day to the work of attending to them. This will, of course be in addition to the weekly manicure, for in actual care the attention of a professional will be secured at least as often as this. It is said by close observers that hands show the beginning of age much sooner than the face, and that it is by this fact alone that many women otherwise beautiful have been unable to deceive their acquaintances in regard to the number of years that have flown. The flesh becomes flabby and withered in appearance, brown spots appear and the joints look as though much larger than formerly, simply from the falling away of the skin and the formation of the many folds. Care will remedy these defects to such an extent that a really fine-appearing hand may be preserved even in old age, hence the fastidious woman will do well to arrange for the expenditure of the necessary minutes each day if she wishes to maintain a rep- utation for youthful appearance. In reading of a beautiful hand the mind naturally pic- tures the ideal of the artist, with firm white flesh, long, tapering fingers, delicately tinted, filbert-shaped nails and soft, pink palm. A pleasing vision, indeed, but one seldom seen, for the model hand is nearly as rare as the model foot, and the majority of people must be contented with one that will at least not be classed as "impossible/' even if it can- not be called beautiful. A great authority has said that the truly patrician hand can only be found when there have 162 THE SKIN. been generations of noble ancestors. The stujdent of palm- istry can easily contradict this fact, for experience proves that very frequently people of the humblest parentage pos- sess hands so perfectly molded that the noblest might well long to possess them. The earnest thinker and close ob- server has never been found with a hand of this type, neither has the successful or ambitious business woman. The idle dreamers or artistic souls are usually those who claim the ideal hand, and it is well that this should be so, for they de- serve some compensation for being so useless from a prac- tical point of view. The time to change or improve the shape of the hands, fingers or nails is that of infancy, and the careful mother will see that the tiny finger nails are treated with due at- tention. Infants who show a tendency to keep the fingers in their mouths not only change the shape of the finger and alter the beauty of the nail, but also spoil the mouth as well. This tendency may be checked by applying a solution of quinine to the tips of the fingers. As they grow older the tiny finger should be rubbed with oil, the cuticle pressed back with an orangewood stick and the nails trimmed care- fully that they may be encouraged to grow long and slender. Biting of the nails must positively be forbidden and if neces- sary stringent measures taken to prevent the practice. Children should also be taught how to care for the hands and how to prevent the rough, red appearance so universally seen in childhood. It can hardly be argued that a child will not enjoy the playtimes as well without these bleeding, raw surfaces as with them, and by a very little work the habit may be formed that will be successful in preventing this condition. The greatest amount of trouble comes because not one person in a hundred is taught to wash the hands properly. 4 § Boracic acid Y* § Starch 2 § If this is not effective enough more salicylic acid may replace a portion of the starch. Ordinarily, however, it will be found all that is required. In the use of any dusting pow- der absolute caution is necessary in removing the powder between the toes, otherwise the irritation caused by con- stant rubbing will cause an inflammation and possibly the portion will fester. The bathing each evening, when prop- erly done will prevent any such complication. Chilblains may be effectively treated by painting them with pure guaiacol, or the mixture of guaiacol and collodion recommended for inflamed joints. To produce the best ef- fects this preparation should be applied not once, but sev- eral times a day and again at night. CHAPTER XXIV. CARE OF THE HAIR. The proper treatment of the hair must also include a knowledge of the best means of securing a healthful condi- tion of the scalp, for hair may be compared to a plant whose growth depends largely upon the quality of the soil, the amount of air, sunlight and careful attention given it. Ordinarily the care of the hair is restricted to very infre- quent shampoos taken more to insure comfort from the peculiar itching condition present when the scalp is neg- lected, than because of interest in the best manner of keep- ing the scalp and hair in good condition. People with fine hair almost invariably abuse it, and only begin to realize the necessity for treatment when it commences falling out or splitting at the ends or turning a peculiar shade from the application of strong tonics or poor shampoos. The hair is a thread-like structure formed of tissue that is really a modification of the cuticle. It is divided into the point, the shaft and the root. The root of the hair swells out into a bulbous enlargement fitting into a small recess in the true skin called the follicle. Near the mouth of the follicle will be found the opening ducts of one or more oil glands, while at the bottom are found the papillae similar to those on the skin and supplied with nervous fibrils. The shaft or stem of the hair is covered with fine scales which may even be felt by drawing the fingers over it from tip to base. The coloring matter is generally supposed to be situated in the medullary strand or pith found in the center of the hairs, while the weight and number of hairs to the square inch depends upon the color, thickness and length. 198 THE SKIN. Upon the surface of a quarter of an inch Withof found of the black hair 147, brown 162 and blonde 182, thus showing that the black hair is the thickest and the blonde the thinnest. Oken has observed that the hair formation is the con- nective link between vegetable and animal tissue, and states his opinions as follows : "The fur is the peripheral con- nection between the plant and the animal. The hair forms the summit of the vegetables. As the plant requires air and light, so, in the animal kingdom the hair appears where it is most exposed to these elements, namely, on the surface. It is not a little remarkable that those mammals which stand nearest the man, the anthropid apes, are distinguished by their great development of the capillary system." To the earnest student the words quoted have a deep significance, for they point to the proper course of treatment as nothing else can, and show plainly that the perfect human being should be under no need of stimulating tonics or treatments if the open crowned hats and physical culture work could be universally known. Any curative treatments should be extended not only to the scalp but also to the entire body, at least so far as giving advice as to diet, manner of exercise and any other point that may improve the general health. The majority of scalp diseases could be avoided if more people could be made to realize the necessity for system in shampooing and caring for the scalp and hair. Many in- stances might be cited in which excessive falling of the hair has been checked in one or two treatments by the use of massage and electricity, and stimulating tonic. Unfor- tunately, however, the majority of people neglect the use of any of these measures until the loss of hair has been extremely great and the follicles so weakened by neglect of the scalp that it is impossible to do much, excepting to THE SKIN. 199 preserve the tresses that are left. There are innumerable cases in which the falling of the hair commences in children of fifteen and continues year by year until as manhood or womanhood is reached the condition is truly mortifying. So much of this trouble is entirely unnecessary that it seems strange indeed to know how few people really have interest enough to acquire knowledge in the proper care of this most important attribute. To begin with, few scalps are cleansed as they should be. The majority of people cleanse them frequently but not wise- ly, for in the desire to possess fluffy locks they employ all kinds of injurious substances that sooner or later destroy the vitality of the hair. Among the common recipes for this purpose may be mentioned the use of salts of tartar, strong ammonia water, soda, borax and other articles that are too numerous to mention. Sometimes a simple shampoo is used and the hair is rinsed with another mixture containing an acid. Nitric acid will, it is true, turn the hair yellow, but is so powerful that it can also eat holes in nearly every sub- stance when used pure, while hydrochloric and sulphuric acid can actually dissolve the hair. Thus every strong alkali or acid used will in some way injure the tresses in such a manner that it will be nearly impossible to remedy the trouble. Every scalp should be thoroughly cleansed at least as often as once in ten days, and if the hair is to be kept in good condition the process must be one that shall remove the dirt, dust and sebaceous secretions without extracting too much oil. The best shampoo is one not too strongly alkaline that can still leave the hair as it should be, and for this purpose there are several excellent recipes. In Germany the use of bran water is extremely common and as it makes a good, though simple, shampoo some of the readers may enjoy trying it. 200 THE SKIN. BRAN SHAMPOO. Water I gal Bran I qt Ivory soap */2 bar Boil the bran with the water for about an hour and then strain and add the soap shaved into small bits. Enough of this is used to make a good lather and the scalp is covered with it. Perhaps it may be well to explain that in sham- pooing few people really pay enough attention to the scalp. The best shampoo is given in this manner. The hair is, of course, smoothly brushed and is separated strand by strand, while the shampoo mixture is poured upon the scalp. As soon as the surface is well covered the tips of the fingers (not the nails) may be employed to rub the fluid in well, examining from time to time to see that the friction is not too vigorous and also to see if the cleansing is proceeding well. As soon as the surface has been well manipulated the mixture should be washed off with warm water and some more of the mixture poured on. The second process is usually all that is necessary, and as this is. fin- ished the hair itself should be washed with the shampoo and the scalp well rinsed, using first very warm water, then cooler, rinsing in water of medium temperature at least twice and ending with water as cold as the patient can endure in order to stimulate the scalp as much as possible. The locks may be dried by any of the usual methods, though when practical the use of the towels is best until the heaviest strands are free from moisture. Then an ex- posure to the rays of the sun will be all that is necessary and will be the most beneficial method. When this is not practical the use of dry heat is a rapid method and when not used at an extremely high temperature is not injurious. Egg shampoos, while popular, do not seem to be the best THE SKIN. 201 for all scalps. The following recipe is one much used by those who can secure good results. EGG SHAMPOO. Yolks of three eggs well beaten. One pint of warm, soft water. One ounce of spirits rosemary. Beat well together and use as any shampoo by applying to the scalp. In this much care must be taken to rinse the scalp well. For those who wish to employ a practical as well as ex- tremely good recipe, the following will be found excellent. It not only cleanses the scalp but also leaves the hair in a fine condition, and is not particularly expensive. SHAMPOO MIXTURE. Green soap 4 § Castile soap 4 § Water dist 1 qt Alcohol 8 5 Boil the soaps in water until a thick mixture results, and then add the alcohol, and keep in a tightly corked bottle until ready for use. The mixture will, of course, be diluted with water when necessary, and this quantity will be suf- ficient for many shampoos. If a tar soap is desired it may be made in the same man- ner, or by simply boiling it up with water until a shampoo of the desired consistency is obtained. After the shampoo, while the scalp is still moist, a good tonic may be used to good advantage and should be- rubbed in vigorously, unless the s.calp is at all irritated. In this even the application of pure witch hazel will be found most soothing. In case the hairs are split the ends should be trimmed and enough clipped away to give an opportunity for a healthy growth. 202 THE SKIN. If any one has been unfortunate enough to be afflicted by the presence of vermin, it is well to apply this ointment before shampooing: Petroleum 5 3 Olive oil 2.y 2 3 Bals. Peru 1 3 This ointment may be rubbed in well with a piece of white flannel and allowed to remain at least twelve hours, or if possible, twenty-four. At the end of this time not only the vermin are destroyed, but the ova are also made harm- less. To be perfectly safe, it is well to repeat this dose the following day, and if the scalp is irritated apply a bland oint- ment. For removing the ova from the hair a dilute solution of acetic acid may be used very successfully^ as it dissolves the gluey substance by which the "nots" are secured in place. Even if the head becomes completely infested, it is not necessary to cut the hair, as this treatment will be all that is necessary. CHAPTER XXV. TREATMENT OF SCALP AND HAIR. There is an ever increasing demand for some agent that shall stop the falling of hair, and, although every one real- izes that poor health, sedentary occupations and improper modes of living are very frequent causes, still there are numerous cases where the trouble is caused by lack of care and the consequent weakened condition of the tresses and the uncleanly scalp. The most important requisites for a really fine condition of both hair and scalp apart from the very necessary cleanliness are, ventilation, and the proper amount of friction. In many instances where delicate chil- dren have the trouble of scanty locks as well, the systematic care after weekly shampoos has done wonders. No matter whether the hair is extremely oily or exceptionally dry, long or short, the foundation of all good work is based on the adoption of certain sensible rules, and it may be con- fidently asserted that if more people would understand and practice these instructions there would be few cases of bald heads, The process of giving scalp massage is daily gaining a wider recognition on account of the immense benefit derived wherever this practice has been faithfully carried out. It may be given either with or without the electric current, and is visually commenced by parting the hair in straight lines from the forehead toward the back of the neck, and employ- ing the two first fingers of each hand as shown in illustration 28 for administering the massage. To do the best work, the fingers must be placed firmly on the scalp and then pressed in such a manner that the scalp Figure 27. Using the Hairbrush P^lectrode, THE SKIN. 205 is manipulated without pulling the hair. The movement is made both forward and backward several times, continuing the work over every portion and using either an oil or witch hazel, or a good hair tonic to keep the scalp moist during the work. The next step is shown in illustration 29. Here the thumbs of each hand are kept in a stationary position at the back of the scalp while the fingers are spread out and under the hair, keeping firmly in place while the massage is con- tinued by moving the scalp with this pressure. The result of this treatment while not seen immediately is usually manifested in a very short time and is undeniably pleasing to any who are in need of scalp stimulation. Many people have employed this process of manipulation at home for ten minutes each day with truly remarkable results in increasing the growth of the hair and banishing every sign of dandruff. This treatment is always finished by the application of a good tonic well rubbed in, and it may be observed that a tonic so employed has a far better effect than when it is used without the preliminary treatment. The recipe given is highly praised and will be found most efficacious for the purpose. STIMULATING TONIC. Tincture of cantharides 2 3 Fl. Ext. of jaborandi . . 1 3 Glycerine 1 3 Alcohol 2 § Cologne , 1 3 Water sufficient to make log Bichl. mercury . . 2 gr This mixture will need to be filtered several times before it is clear enough for use, and then it will be found extremely beneficial. 206 THE SKIN. If very rapid results are desired, or where it is advisable to spend the time the electric treatment should follow the use of the tonic, and in any case should be used on every scalp at least once a week, as it stimulates so well, that ben- efit is sure to follow rapidly. For this purpose the Faradic current is most excellent, and the connections may be made as shown in Figure 17, using the brush for the work and employing it for at least twenty minutes. If the wire bristles seem to be too sharp, and the patient complains of the strength of the current, the wrist electrode, as seen in Figure 17, may be used and the treatment given in this manner by allowing the current to pass through the fingers, and onto the scalp. When loss of hair is caused by nervous trouble the use of electricity is of added value, as it acts as a sedative to the nerves as well as a stimulant to the scalp. Headaches, either nervous or neuralgic, are relieved speedily and thus in many instances the health is improved. When the hair is exceptionally oily and the scalp feels cold and looks white and lifeless, the galvanic current may be used to great ben- efit in this manner. A bit of cotton well saturated with a Hairbrush Electrode. stimulating tonic is placed in the handle connected to the positive pole and placed upon the scalp, while the negative electrode is held in the hand. The entire scalp is treated in this manner and the treatment is finished by giving the Figure 28. Scalp Massage— First Movement. 208 THE SKIN. scalp massage as directed. Treatments for this peculiarity must be given at least twice a week and the work done at home should also be of a nature that will assist in this proc- ess. For instance, it is advisable to sponge the scalp at least twice a week with this mixture : Alcohol 6 § Oil mace 2 3 If it is impossible to obtain electric treatments and they are found to be necessary it will be advisable for patients to secure their own batteries with the brush attachment and thus be in a position to use the currents as often as they like. In connection with this topic it may be well to mention the practice of clipping or singeing the hair. There has been for many years a difference of opinion on these points, and until recently few of the higher authorities have seen fit to give much attention to the discussion. Now it is de- cided that clipping is the best method, as burning takes away too much of the vitality. The split ends are so nu- merous in some cases that it seems almost impossible to find all of them, but if the hair is twisted in small strands and then roughed by moving the fingers from the tip to- ward the head, the small scissors can easily pass along and get the worst hairs, while subsequent treatments will be sufficient to keep them all well trimmed. This work should be done at least once every four weeks and does much to keep the hair in good condition. By following the hints given here, any head of hair may be kept in good condition and the majority of cases of falling of the tresses stopped. CHAPTER XXVI. THE TREATMENT OF DANDRUFF OR SCURF. Dandruff has been called by a very eminent authority — ''catarrh of the epidermis" — and as there are many varieties of catarrh so there are numerous complications of this very disagreeable and common scalp affection. At times it is a short-lived affair, at others, most persistent, and as it is always objectionable, the best manner of treatment should be one of interest to every one so afflicted. The skin affected with dandruff is usually anemic and may also be either dry or humid. The itching sensation is sometimes moderate though frequently almost intolerable, while the tissue surrounding the patches of sebaceous matter is generally much reddened and in some instances becomes painful from the constant inflammation. This disease pos- sesses many peculiar manifestations and may be found asso- ciated with other scalp affections. Ordinarily, however, the varieties enumerated are the most commonly seen. A form met frequently is that in which greasy white or yellow scales of dry sebaceous matter form on the scalp and even fall from the surface onto the shoulder of the individ- ual. The hair is in some instances matted together, in others, it becomes extremely oily, though in time it generally becomes dry and lusterless and will eventually fall from the follicles. If the destructive process still continues un- checked the follicles themselves become atrophied and bald- ness results, leaving the scalp in the dry shiny condition familiar to all who have been at all observant. The small reddish patches found on scalps affected with dandruff are almost invariably caused by the scratching from the finger 210 THE SKIN. nails and in the inflammation constantly present in these sections makes the treatment of the dandruff much more dif- ficult, as there is danger of producing an extensive irrita- tion. ^Another variety of dandruff consists of a fine powder- like deposit that seems hardly fastened to the scalp, it is so easily detached, though extremely plentiful. This kind is usually associated with extreme dryness of the skin and even seems inclined to invade portions of the face as well. Still another and one that is fortunately not so common, is found in the appearance of thick scales of a yellowish-gray substance that also appears on the face if left unchecked. In connection with these scalp affections is found another condition that is extremely trying, in which an oily fluid is poured out both on the body and scalp. The ducts of the sebaceous follicles in this condition are plugged with com- edones, and the surface of the skin is usually cold to the touch, showing the necessity for a treatment that shall im- prove the circulation as well as to restore the functions of the glands. The treatment of these peculiar conditions must natur- ally be something that shall tend to prevent abnormal collec- tions of fatty material upon the skin, remove the crusts of dandruff without undue irritation and improve the condi- tion of the affected parts. These treatments when suc- cessful mean the expenditure of much time and thought, and the process is one most interesting to the earnest student. In all of this work there must exist a unanimity of purpose between the patient and the masseuse that will tend to most rapid results. In severe cases of dandruff the removal of the crusts will frequently seem to increase the loss of hair, as im- poverished by the course of the disease, and with weakened THE SKIN. 211 follicles, a complete cleansing such as will be necessary will sometimes cause a loss of hair so great that the patient will fear baldness. This loss is absolutely unavoidable and even if the treatment is not commenced will begin sooner or later and the baldness will really be a permanent affliction. If, however, the dandruff is removed as indicated, the scalp massaged and treated, and the follicles strengthened, the hair will be encouraged to new growth, and by care, future trouble may be avoided. The use of a fine comb or any kind of a metallic affair for removing dandruff is not only unnecessary but injurious, as it fails to remove the crusts while it invariably succeeds in irritating the scalp and causing more difficulty. For the purpose, therefore, nothing is better than the application of some bland ointment or oil, such as olive oil, almond oil, lajd or any other substance that can thoroughly penetrate the crust. To be efficacious, the oil should be applied sev- eral times during the day, and again at night, using also some kind of a head covering to still further aid the work. A most excellent mixture for this purpose may be easily made by using these ingredients. SCALP CLEANSER. Lanoline . I § Carbolic acid ^ 5 Witch Hazel 45 Almond oil . 4 § Melt the lanoline and almond oil together and then while still warm pour in the witch hazel, adding the carbolic acid when the mixture is nearly cool. After the scalp has been soaked with this mixture and the crusts seem to be thoroughly loosened, the oil and crusts may be removed by applying the simple shampoo made by this method. Figure 29. Scalp Massage -Second Movement. THE SKIN. 213 SIMPLE SHAMPOO. Green soap . . . . 2 § Alcohol 2 § Rosemary Tinct y 2 3 Dissolve the green soap in the alcohol and add the tinc- ture of rosemary and pour enough on the scalp to cover it, rubbing and applying enough water to make a good lather. It may be necessary to apply this shampoo several times in order to thoroughly cleanse the scalp of the oil and dandruff. After it is cleaned it may be examined, and if it appears reddened and irritated, the following ointment may be rubbed in carefully : BLAND OINTMENT. Almond oil 5 g Bals. Peru ' 1 5 Spermaceti 1 § In very severe cases, although this treatment seems wonderfully successful, the end of the second day will find a fresh deposit of the plates of dandruff, and it will be necessary to repeat the operation described for perhaps six or seven times at intervals of every three or four days until the tendency has been cured. As soon as the scalp can be cleaned without appearing at all irritated, a stimulating tonic may be used, and for this purpose nothing is better than this plan. Immediately after the shampoo apply to the scalp pure witch hazel and rub it well with the tips of the fingers. Repeat this process again at night and the second or third day use this tonic : Alcohol 2 § " Tinct. capsicum 1 3 Glycerine 1 3 Oil eucalyptus 1 3 Rose water 6 g 214 THE SKIN. Of course, in instances where the first cleansing has been all that is necessary this tonic may be used immediately or perhaps, better still, after the first day, using witch hazel first as described. The cases where the oily secretions occur are treated in exactly the same manner in the matter of cleaning, as the scalp will need to be well soaked in order to free the scalp from the fatty material. The tonic used will, however, be different than the other, and may be applied immediately after the shampoo. It is made thus : TONIC FOR OILY SCALP. Quinine sulphate 20 gr Bay rum 40 Tinct. cantharides 1 3 Tinct. capsicum 10 Distilled water 85 In addition to this tonic treatment instructions should be given to the patient to bathe frequently, taking at least three warm baths a week, and if possible finishing each one with a thorough rubbing with salt. One of the greatest causes for discontent in the work described here is not so much the failure to remove the dandruff, for the method described will positively do that, but in impressing upon people that the treatment must be continued until the scalp is in an absolutely healthful con- dition. When the loss of hair has been extremely great and the condition has been found to be complicated with eczema, even longer periods are required. Even when no complication exists and the loss of hair has been marked, it is often impossible to do much excepting to prevent further loss, for if the follicles are dead no new hair will appear in these portions. Those who are possessed of that very desirable requisite THE SKIN. 215 persistence, will positively succeed in curing the most obstinate cases of dandruff, and the competent masseuse should have no difficulty in impressing upon her patients the necessity for application. After the condition has been cured shampoos should be taken at least every ten days, and if possible one treatment a week for scalp massage in connection with electrical applications. Of course, the proper amount of rubbing will be done at home, and the scalp and hair should be thus kept in extremely good condi- tion. In any and every case, the applications of oil first, are positively necessary, and must be made frequently, as directed, if the results are to be good. A very desirable Germ-proof Hairbrush. CHAPTER XXVII. HOW TO DYE AND BLEACH THE HAIR. The universal desire to conceal or disguise the first unwelcome heralds of age — gray hairs — is so openly ac- knowledged that even those who disapprove of the practice of using dyes, still admit the longing to be almost a natural one. It may be of interest to the ambitious to learn that the oldest prescription on record is for a hair dye, and is credited to no less a person than Shesch, the mother-in-law of the first king of Egypt. Whether Madame Shesch in- tended this for her daughter Teta or wished to preserve her own appearance no one seems to know, but as the rec- ords state that the dye was hers we may take it for granted that she also made use of it. Why the hair turns gray has never been satisfactorily decided. Some learned men declare that the blanching comes from the disappearance of the pigment cells. Others have by examination found the pigment as abundant as ever, but the corticle substance so dense that the color does not show through. There is no doubt that nervous strain, illness and heredity as well as advancing years may be cited as influences in this matter, and as in so many instances the growth of hair is as abundant as ever there can therefore be no question as to the healthful condition of the scalp. Whatever may be the cause there has as yet been discovered no cure, so the man or woman who wishes to hide from associates has no choice but in the application of a dye. In many instances this process is a necessity, as the appearance of gray hair would mean dismissal from lucrative positions, so in considering ways and means it is well to remember this fact. THE SKIN. 217 There is an impression that hair may be colored perma- nently, but this is erroneous, for nothing can be dyed but the free portion outside of the follicle. Hence the process must be repeated from time to time, as the hair near the scalp will grow out a natural color, while constant brush- ing and washing will naturally take of? part of the stain. The requisites for a good dye are not easy to fulfill, for every one demands that the mixture shall be easy to apply, of a natural appearance and durable. It is almost impossible to find a dye made by an amateur that will fill these require- ments, though a few of the manufactured articles will posi- tively do so. However, as people love to dabble in the fas- cinating art of making strange mixtures some of the simple- recipes will follow. The vegetable and organic dyes are usually harmless, next to these come iron and permanganate of potassium, then copper, bismuth and bichromate of potassium ; next per- oxide of hydrogen, silver and finally lead. The last two, of course, are generally recognized as used, though not by careful workers. Fresh walnut hulls are much used, and this method is really harmless. Henna is much employed to stain the hair red and is so effective that even black hair will yield to its influence. By mixing henna with indigo a shade of brown is made and by using the indigo after the hair has been stained with the henna a very beautiful black is possible. The process is very simple. First comes a shampoo that must remove all the oil from the hair. Then with great care single strands are sme,ared with a paste made by mix- ing henna with warm water. The hair is then left accord- ing to the shade desired. If it is to be red and the hair is naturally dark, at least two hours will be necessary. Light hair will not take longer than an hour. 218 THE SKIN. If the color is to be black it may be treated again with a paste made in the same manner with indigo powder and water. During this process the hair becomes a greenish black, later turning into a fine black that is very permanent. This process is even said to be beneficial, as far as increas- ing the growth of the hair is concerned, and in Turkey the manes and tails of horses are dyed red by means of henna. If one wishes to use the two ingredients at the same time the following formula may be of use, as it is said that by the application of this paste the hair may be dyed any shade, from light to dark chestnut brown : Henna 15 Indigo 35 Water 4 5 The hand of an expert is required in this art, and in the use of henna it must be remembered that after the first dyeing unless the process is continued the most incredible shades appear, green, violet, and a queer copper color, mak- ing the appearance so weird that it is impossible to be seen in public places, until the color has worn off. For bleaching the hair the agent most popular is per- oxide of hydrogen, and if properly used it may at least be said to be harmless, though the color produced is never at all natural and the constant touching up required becomes most monotonous. The application of the peroxide is most simple, and is easily made by the use of a small brush. The hair is first washed carefully and the peroxide poured into a saucer and the mixture applied. One application produces a great change and more may be made as necessary. Am- monia is added in some instances, but it simply hastens the process and cannot do good while it does much harm by drying the locks. After the hair is thoroughly bleached, it needs constant watching to keep it in presentable condition. THE SKIN. 219 It must remain as light as it is always, unless it is allowed to grow out the natural color again, or unless it is dyed. After it is dyed it is impossible to rebleach it without caus- ing the most disagreeable complications. The use of peroxide to lighten or brighten auburn hair is harmless and effective, and it may be used to advantage by using an equal quantity of water and applying it to the hair after a shampoo, then fanning until it is dry. Muddy, brown hair may also be brightened in the same way without injuring it. A good dye for gray hair or rather one that will restore the natural color is hard to describe. The following recipe is said to be extremely effective, and at any rate has the advantage of being less harmful than most of the dyes. HAIR DYE. Southern wood ij^tb Olive oil i qt Port wine I pt Bruise the wood and boil it in the olive oil and strain through a cloth. Get fresh quantities of the wood and re- peat the operation twice. Then add the port wine and allow it to stand several days before using. This is too oily to suit most people so the next recipe will be more popu- lar. It is said to have been advocated by Lola Montez. INSTANTANEOUS HAIR DYE. Gallic acid 10 gr Tinct. sesquichloride or iron I § Acetic acid . i § Dissolve the gallic acid in the sesquichloride and add the acetic acid, wash the hair and apply dye when it is thor- oughly dry. Other dyes extremely popular contain excess of lead, 220 THE SKIN. and as there are numerous cases on record where dyes of this description have caused death or perhaps that affliction even worse than death, paralysis, it is well to be careful in applying any mixture to the scalp unless one has some knowledge of its properties. The dye safest to use is that not applied to the scalp but to the hair, and which may be used as often as required. The best dyes as a rule come in two portions marked either A and B or i and 2, and are used in the following manner : After the hair has been thoroughly cleansed with soap and water and then dried the solution marked A is applied with a small brush, drawing it from the roots to the tips and saturating the hair well. It is then allowed to dry, and as soon as possible the second solution applied, using a different brush for the process. The hair is again dried, if possible in the sun, and in twenty-four hours the super- fluous dye is washed off with warm water. Most of the trouble coming from the use of dyes may be traced to this last point. Many people imagine that it is useless to wash off the dye the next day and allow it to remain, thus caus- ing much injury to the hair. In order to produce just the desired shade a most accurate knowledge of chemistry is necessary, hence the difficulty in preparing any of the dyes that are supposed to change the hair from one shade to any other. The woman who desires to obtain the best results should get the most reliable preparation, and if possible have its action explained to her. If she cannot afford to have a com- petent hair dresser apply the dye she should follow the directions to the letter and the results may be very pleasing. The shampoo should be made imperative, as it is almosf impossible to apply any dye and have it act properly unless the hair is washed. Another point of importance is the THE SKIN. 221 kind of shampoo used. One that will not produce com- plications by inducing peculiar combinations of chemicals is, of course, necessary, and hence it is well always to use a mixture, the ingredients of which are known. For that reason the shampoo mixture mentioned in a previous chap- ter will be the best for general use. In using any dye the skin of the face should not be touched by the liquid, and the dress should be protected by a rubber cloth, while the hands will, of course, be encased in rubber gloves. The bottles containing the staining mix- tures should be placed on metallic trays or on something that cannot be discolored, and the utmost care taken not to allow drops of the dye to be spattered on the clothing or carpet or anything that may be injured. A little expe- rience very speedily shows the average woman that the art of dyeing the hair is one that deserves recognition as a most difficult and delicate process, unless there exists that natural adaptability that enables one to know intuitively just what to do and how to do it. Finally, although there are given so many precautions and warnings, it is not fair to frighten those who feel the necessity of using dyes, for there are thousands of people who have used them successfully for years without any in- jury to either the scalp or hair. The process is a peculiar one, and it must be done with the greatest of attention to minute detail if it is to be pleasing. This performed, the results will be as desired. CHAPTER XXVIII. HOW TO GROW THIN. The woman who carries in addition to the regulation number of burdens, that additional one — superfluous flesh — has indeed a right to demur. For her, life can never be exceedingly comfortable. Every effort tires her. Changes in temperature may mean actual suffering, and physically she can never be at her best while this huge load of fat presses on all of the vital organs, short- ening her breath, impeding the action of the heart and liver, and almost invariably producing some serious com- plication. The accumulation of flesh usually commences about the age of twenty-eight, sometimes a little earlier or later, and though frequently found in people inclined to be physically indolent, there are exceptions to this rule, for the busy housewives are often quite monumental in appearance, though leading active lives. In such instances the food, and body exercises and baths will be found of the greatest im- portance in the process of reducing flesh. In respect to this question, as in many others, the various authorities have met success in different ways, although they have all agreed upon the main items. There are many phases to be considered in this work before attempting it, and among the most important are those regarding the dan- ger to the physical well-being by reducing so rapidly that the organs may be weakened. This rapid process is almost inevitably the result of taking strong drugs, and the thoughtful person will hardly care to consider such a course. Bathing, too, may be dangerous if the temperature of the THE SKIN. 223 bath is high enough to cause increased heart action in one whose heart is already weakened, while exercising must be undertaken with caution and according to set rules, if it is to be of benefit. After considering well the phases to be avoided, the student should first learn the theory of treatment, then fol- low it, and inevitably she will find herself wonderfully im- proved in health as well as greatly decreased in weight. Even with organic troubles, those who are too heavy may manage to become a great deal smaller, while ordinary, fat people can easily make themselves just what they desire to be if they will but persevere in the treatments indicated. The cause of obesity is said to be a disturbance of cell activity. An over-use of carbo-hydrates tends to increase the fat greatly, while alcoholic stimulants or an excessive diet of fats and starches also aid in this work. The effects of obesity may be seen in the sluggish con- dition of the circulation, torpid liver, weakened heart and kidneys and disinclination to exertion, both mental and physical. The vital capacity is also much less, and experi- ment has shown that for every kilo of weight above the average, there is a corresponding decrease of 37 c. c. in this respect. In reducing the flesh the dietetic treatment is all-impor- tant, and should be carried out accordingly, with due regard to the necessity for systematic bathing and exercising as well. The best method is naturally that which not only reduces but also performs the work without weakening the patient. In some instances' where there is anemia present with weakness of the heart, the treatment must be an in- vigorating one, and in all methods there should be exercised an effort to avoid measures that are too severe to be con- sistent with health. 224 THE SKIN. Banting, Ebstein and Oertel are the most quoted author- ities on this subject, and each plan has certain advantages, but none can be used in all cases. A strict avoidance of all the foods of a certain nature is apt also to impair the diges- tive properties, so in general practice it is well to limit the diet, but also to use as many articles as possible in strict mod- eration. For instance, the u^e of sweets may be supplied by saccharine, the starchy foods may be represented by the bread and the peas and beans allowed, thus making the diot a mixed one. The following list will be found sufficient for the majority of cases. BREAKFAST. One tgg, either poached or boiled, one cup of coffee or tea sweetened with saccharine if necessary, toasted bread, wheat bread, or graham, 2 ounces fruits, such as oranges, grape fruit, or apples. (One only being allowed.) Immediately after breakfast a two-mile walk should be taken if possible, if not, the use of the body exercises may be tried, paying especial attention to those calling for bend- ing, such as I, II, III and IV. This work should consume at least fifteen minutes, and following the exercises the body should be sponged off with salt water. Two hours after time of meal a glass of some mineral water should be taken, preferably Vichy one day, Kissingen the next. NOON MEAL. Soup, 3 ounces ; fish, 3 ounces ; roast or boiled beef, veal, game or poultry, 6 to 8 ounces; green vegetables, 2 ounces ; bread, 1 ounce ; fruit, 3 or 4 ounces ; 4 to 5 ounces of any light wine. No liquid aside from this is to be taken with the meal. Two hours after meal a glass of mineral water. THE SKIN. 225 EVENING MEAL. Caviar, iy 2 ounces; i to 2 soft-boiled eggs; beefsteak, fowl or game, 5 ounces; salad, 1 ounce; cheese, 1 dram; bread, 1 ounce ; fruit, or water, 5 ounces. - Before retiring, a complete body bath in warm water may be taken and the entire body well scrubbed with soap and water, followed by a cold sponge, unless the action of the cold water is unendurable. Following the bath, the breath- ing exercises may be practiced, especially the last four, al- though all of them will be found excellent. In twenty-four hours after the beginning of this pro- gram, weight will have been lost, and the decrease should be steady until the average weight has been reached, when the strict process can, of course, be stopped, and by atten- tion to food and exercise the accumulation of flesh dis- couraged. In connection with exercising and bathing, care must be taken to prevent the skin from becoming withered or flabby after this loss of flesh, and hence at least once a week a thorough massage of the body should be given, while mas- sage of the face and neck should be an everyday affair, for this follow the directions given in chapters on massage. In cases of nervous dyspepsia, the use of electricity has been most beneficial, and the current may be used over the spine, at back of head, and upon the diaphragm with most excellent results. Bodily exercise is, of course, of much importance, and persistence means that where the flesh was, firm muscles will exist, and the creases and crevices so dangerous to beauty will not appear. For those who feel that the decrease in flesh endangers the appearance, the following lotion may be used with extremely good effect. It is best applied after the evening bath. 226 THE SKIN. Rose water . . . , 8 g Tinct. of benzoin i 3 Milk of almonds 2 § Sulphate of aluminum y 2 % Dissolve thoroughly and filter until clear. Keep in a dark bottle in a cool place and apply with a sponge daily. The cold sponge is especially recommended after the ordinary warm bath, and even the most delicate may in time accustom themselves to this by commencing with the use of tepid water, and gradually adding the colder until the desired temperature has been reached. Salt may be added to the water with very good effect or the towels may be dipped in a saturated solution of salt allowed to dry and then used to scrub the body with. The effect of this fric- tion is most beneficial. The following table of weights is the one most generally accepted, and any great deviation from this either way should be corrected as being inconsistent with health. The normal woman should not vary more than two or three pounds from these figures. If she does, her only remedy is a strict observance of the rules given for the correction of this condition. 5 feet i inch 120 to 123 pounds 5 feet 2 inches 126 to 128 pounds 5 feet 3 inches 133 to 135 pounds 5 feet 4 inches 136 to 138 pounds 5 feet 5 inches 142 to 144 pounds 5 feet 6 inches 145 to 147 pounds 5 feet 7 inches 149 to 151 pounds 5 feet 8 inches 155 to 157 pounds 5 feet 9 inches 162 to 165 pounds 5 feet 10 inches 169 to 171 pounds 5 feet 11 inches 174 to 176 pounds 6 feet 178 to 182 pounds CHAPTER XXIX. HOW TO BECOME PLUMP. The thin woman may glory in being willowy in her youth, but as in the early thirties she sees the deep creases and. the tiny lines that appear with the evident determina- tion of acquiring a permanent position, there also comes the desire to acquire a few pounds of flesh to assist in cov- ering the too apparent bones. All wasting diseases will produce this excessive leanness, but if there is no trouble of this kind to contend with, and no inherited tendency, much can be done toward correcting this condition. It is peculiar, to say the least, in studying the best measures for putting on flesh to find how many of the rules for taking it off must be observed. Exercise in the open air is as important for one as for the other. The body exercises for development are always to be used, while those in breathing, found the very best basis for this treatment. Exercises especially beneficial in this respect are those in which the abdomen and chest are made to expand against pressure. Of course, in perform- ing any of these movements care will be observed to carry none of them to excess, and to avoid becoming over-ex- hausted at any time. Bathing may be used almost as extensively as in the case of superfluous flesh, with the difference that after the use of a very warm bath much time should be employed upon the massage of the body, using as much oil or skin food as the pores will absorb. After a bath of this kind much rest should be taken and a light lunch eaten before 228 THE SKIN. dressing. For instance, a glass of milk and a roll or two, or poached eggs and cocoa or a glass of ale will be found excellent foods for this condition. The bath, most beneficial for this purpose, is that ob- tained by pouring into the tub two quarts of bran, and allowing it to remain in the warm water for twenty minutes before entering. This bran may be used for rubbing the body by mixing it with castile soap, and after a vigorous friction, the body should remain in the water for at least twenty minutes, finishing with a thorough massage of the entire body. Each day after luncheon, a rest should be taken and upon rising if there is any appetite for food, a cup of chocolate or glass of milk or tea with toast may be taken. Much sleep is extremely beneficial, as the majority of thin people are exceedingly active, and do not get the rest they require. Many women have found the use of porter or ale to be most beneficiaJ, but. as the use of these stimulants is often attended by a desire for something of the kind constantly, it is well to use remedies less apt to be attended with bad after-effects. Any sour wine such as claret or Rhine, or the use of the many acid fruits, such as lemons, oranges, grape fruit or limes should be avoided. When the one who is thin is also exceedingly nervous, sufficient rest must be made a positive law, with the use of electricity if her nerves seem entirely beyond control and a tonic of hypophosphites to assist in toning up the system. The following diet will be found the best in most conditions. BREAKFAST. Cup of tea or coffee with as much cream and milk as can possibly be employed. Any of the cereal foods, berries or fruit with sugar, baked potatoes and a lamb chop. THE SKIN. 229 This menu will seem rather elaborate to many, as the "no breakfast" fad is widespread, and both corpulent and emaciated women have accustomed themselves to either nothing at all in the morning or one cup of coffee with perhaps a slice of unbuttered toast. All thin people should make an effort to make this morning meal a sub- stantial one, as it does more to keep up the strength and prevent undue strain than any other meal in the day. In the middle of the morning after exercise in the open air it is well again to take a light lunch and this may consist of toasted crackers with a glass of milk or eggnogg. After this lunch, of course, the ordinary occupations may be pur- sued as usual, and at noon the following menu will be found the best. LUNCHEON. Potatoes, any of the green vegetables, omelette, bread and butter and fruits, cold meats and milk, chocolate, or cocoa, or milk. After lunch a rest of at least one-half hour should be taken, or if possible a long nap, followed by a lunch during the middle of the afternoon. DINNER. Any of the nourishing soups, fish of any kind, meats, such as rare, roast beef, chicken, sweets and fruits. Beer, porter, Burgundy or a little sweet Champagne may be taken. After dinner a little light exercise should follow, and especial care should be used to avoid making the hours for retiring late. The warm bath, as described, can well be taken at night with the careful massage following and a glass of milk may be taken just before retiring for the night. The diet in all cases will be found to be most important, and excesses should be guarded against. Although sweets 230 THE SKIN. are fattening, too many are apt to cause emaciation, just as surely as the average use encourages corpulency. In nearly every case of extreme thinness, the patient is found to have a peculiar appetite. Rarely is there observed a healthful longing for food best suited to her condition. The desire may be for sweets or for sour fruits or pickles, but it is invariably for something that will injure the digestion. Tendencies of this kind may be overcome by persistent effort and determination. If necessary, a good tonic may be employed to aid in the work. In any event, the deter- mination to acquire a healthy appetite may be met with success, if sufficient interest is shown in the matter. The matter of nerves must be especially considered in these instances, and if the subject is extremely irritable, allowing every small matter to disturb her, she must simply call a halt in her round of duties by weeding out every un- necessary task, and spending sufficient time to thoroughly cultivate that state of calm and repose necessary to peace of mind. The rest cure may be taken in the heart of the city as well as in the quiet of the country, for wherever there is sufficient will, there is bound to be success, and this may be easily proved by any one who will make the effort. CHAPTER XXX. PHYSIOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT. It is not alone for the benefit obtained in acquiring a graceful carriage, or in the symmetrical development of the body, that the proper system of exercising is advocated ; but chiefly on account of the positive increase in both mental and physical capacity for sustained effort, obtained by those who have the will to adopt, and the perseverance to prac- tice the movements best suited to their needs. It cannot be denied that much harm has been done by the use of exercises too violent for those with weakened constitutions or any organic trouble of the heart. However, in teaching of the wonderful results to be obtained from this work, full emphasis has been placed upon the absolute necessity for caution, and in addition, only the exercises that may be attempted with perfect safety have been selected for lessons. Exercise should not be relegated to young, but should be encouraged in the middle-aged and old people as a means of preventing fatty changes, and the process of degenera- tion peculiar to age, in which the blood vessels wither away and thus cause excessive tissue waste. These processes may in a great measure be prevented by persistent and systematic effort to keep all of the muscles in working condition, as well as in maintaining a good cir- culation. In this manner the capillaries and blood vessels instead of contracting, may be kept at their greatest capac- ity, thus insuring sufficient activity. The anecdote of the man who commenced lifting the calf from the time it was two days old, and thus proved 232 THE SKIN. that when it became a huge animal he could still perform the same feat because his muscles had been trained and gradually adapted to the increased effort, is a very good illustration of what daily work will do for every one. If it could be kept up, or rather if it were continued as it should be, and proper vigor could be maintained, the man of sixty would be far more supple than the boy of sixteen. One of the most prominent educators in this country, who was opposed to anything in the way of violent exer- cise, or indeed even to mild efforts, or anything else, that would take him away from his books, has recently been made the object of some very curious experiments in order to prove that a man of fifty-five could be trained in the greatest part of the work done by the college athletes. The educator had declared so vigorously that he could never be improved by this method of development that when a tempting wager was made he finally agreed to undergo training for six months, adopting the diet as well as the work lined out by the advocate of physiological de- velopment. At the end of three months the stiff lines and awkward gait had been supplanted by an erect carriage and sem- blance of ease. Six months found him a different man, not only physically but also in regard to capacity for mental effort, a matter easily proved, as this new work did not interfere with the ordinary duties of life. At this time arrangements were made to prolong the training for one year, and then to his delight he found he could perform the following exercises with ease : He could stand on a block eight inches high, and, reach- ing down, lay his hands on the floor, palms downward. He could lay his hands flat back on his wrists and easily slip his toes in his mouth. In addition to these proofs of sup- THE SKIN. 233 pleness he could hold a cane horizontally, clasping each- hand about it behind his back and then raise it above his head. A trial at raising the hands alone will soon convince any one how difficult it must have been to acquire the abil- ity to do this last exercise. Of course the results of this work were quite suffi- cient to make an ardent enthusiast of the educator, and as a consequence the athletic portion of the college boys soon found an ally who assisted them whenever possible. Instances without number may be cited, showing that those who are in the habit of exercising habitually will not only live longer and happier lives, but will also enjoy comparative immunity from sickness and attacks of melan- cholia and will be decidedly prone to the comfortable con- dition in which neither the extreme of corpulency or emaci- ation will be experienced. Twenty minutes spent in this work each day will do wonders for any one who is earnest in the work within a year's time. The increased interest among women is already showing wonderful results in the finely proportioned typesstyled the American Girl. Especial emphasis should be placed upon the benefits to be derived from this work by those who have passed middle age. There has been a feeling that all efforts of this kind were unavailing excepting during the earlier years, and as a consequence the interest has not been as great as it should be. No one is ever too old to be benefited to some degree by work carried on properly, and every person should be convinced of this fact. There are too many in- stances of activity among, people who have passed the al- loted threescore and ten to make one feel that there is anything like an age limit in these enlightened days. Full breathing stands at the head of every list as most important as well as absolutely necessary to perfect health. 234 THE SKIN. The room one sits in may be filled with fresh air, but unless it is taken into the body correctly by an effort that shall not only fill the lungs, but also exercise the entire abdominal region, breathing is not properly done. In all labored respiration, the abdominal muscles act by dimin- ishing the abdominal cavity, and pushing the contents up against the diaphragm. The contraction of the diaphragm, by increasing the intra-abdominal pressure, favors the venous blood current in the abdomen toward the venacava inferior. Thus the act of breathing correctly and deeply is seen to have an immense influence in actively exercising the organs so vitally important if health is to be maintained. Breathing should be done through the nostrils, because, as the current of air passes through the pharyngo-nasal cav- ity, it is rendered warm and moist, and the irritation of the mucous membranes of the air passages by the cold air is prevented. Small particles of soot or other foreign sub- stances adhere to and become embedded in the mucous covering and are carried outward by the peculiar mechan- ism of the respiratory passages, and finally disagreeable odor and impurities of the air are detected by the sense of smell. Oxygen, the great purifier, is present in large quanti- ties in fresh air, combined with nitrogen and carbonic acid gas — C0 2 . Taken into the body by the means of respiration it revivifies the blood, assists in the construc- tion of the new tissue as well as in the breaking down of old. Air once breathed has been deprived of a great part of its oxygen, and possesses a marked increase in C0 2 . Hence, in order to take in as much of the life-giving oxy- gen and as little of the inert C0 2 as possible, the same air should be breathed but once, thus making perfect ven- tilation a necessity in all apartments. THE SKIN. 235 Fresh air is as necessary for the most robust as for the weakly, and the allowance of space necessary to secure sufficient air for each individual should always be con- sidered in respect to the healthful condition of rooms. Or- dinarily 800 cubic feet should be allowed for a healthy person, and 1,000 cubic feet for one who is sick. In addi- tion to the allowance of air, care must be taken to insure the free admission of sunlight, in order to get rid of the organic matter that is constantly given off. A very good illustration of the fact that this organic matter given off by means of the breath is filled with numerous bacteria may be tried by breathing into a jar of distilled water, and then placing the vessel aside. In a very short time the water becomes fetid. Hence it will be seen that to insure perfect ventilation, as well as the best condition of an apartment, both sun and air are required. In learning to breathe correctly the exercises should be taken in a room previously well ventilated or by an open window. Any muscular effort causes an increase in the C0 2 given out, so much more care must be exerted to keep the pure air in sufficient quantity to make the exercises beneficial. The good effects of correct breathing are re- markable. Chests expand, stomachs recede, cheeks show more color and eyes are brighter, while the general health is of course far better. The process of breathing should not be spasmodic, but natural, with a certain rhythm. Those who puff out their cheeks and go through numerous other facial contortions, such as gasping and gurgling, are harming themselves in more ways than one, and are do- ing absolutely no good. Care must be taken to learn the proper method, and then the results will be all that can be desired. Rapid, violent breathing is to be avoided, as it may 236 THE SKIN. produce serious injury to the pulmonary tissues. Shallow breathing is of no benefit whatever, and in this very im- portant work every exercise should be performed with the mind absolutely concentrated upon the subject, as well as with a steady determination to go at the work with the intention of producing the effect desired. The time given to breathing may be increased from day to day. If exer- cises seem too difficult for the first trial they may be made easier until finally they can be accomplished with the ut- most ease. The busy woman, who feels every moment is precious, if properly dressed, may practice deep breathing as she walks to her daily occupation. With shoulders thrown back, head erect and hands at her side she may inhale slowly while she counts five, exhale while counting seven, and so on until the utmost capacity for the lungs has finally been reached. This, of course, means that her clothing must be worn so comfortably that the abdominal muscles may be used with every breath. If the great distance precludes an attempt at walking, the breathing exercises may be practiced upon retiring at night, and in fact some of the most excellent are performed while in a recumbent position. During the day, if the head feels heavy and there is a sensation of weariness that makes the work drag, five minutes of deep breathing by the open window will send the blood bounding through the veins and so* clear the brain that the capacity for accom- plishing is almost doubled. So enthusiastic are the advocates of correct breathing that it is said one of the foremost actresses attributes a great part of her success to her knowledge of this art. If tried beyond her strength by some strongly emotional art, or if feeling unequal to the work before her, she imme- THE SKIN. 237 diately gets into the open air for long enough to practice inhaling and exhaling ten deep breaths, and returns feel- ing refreshed and invigorated. It is frequently impossible for any person of ordinary environment to go through the long and vigorous courses prescribed by those who make a specialty of this work. Hence in giving the following exercises care has been taken to select those that will sufficiently exercise the vital organs as well as the muscles and yet w r ill not be in any way in- jurious. Many excellent exercises will need to be omitted, simply because it is impossible for any one to do them with- out instruction. However, if these that are given are prac- ticed as they should be there will be found little need of anything else. Every woman, no matter what her occupa- tion, needs to learn and practice deep breathing. The fol- lowing examples will suffice as illustrations of the most important portions of this work. Exercise I. Assume a recumbent position by lying flat on the couch or floor and relaxing all of the muscles. Then inhale slowly through the nostrils, and as deliberately ex- hale. Place the hands lightly on the abdomen, and if the breath is taken correctly the abdominal muscles will become inflated first, then the chest. In order to make the work rhythmical commence by mentally counting five while inhaling, and seven while exhaling. Repeat five times, gradually adding to the count as the strength in- creases, and always being careful to perform the work methodically. This exercise is excellent for practice in inflating the lungs properly and may be practiced in bed before rising, thus commencing the day well. Exercise II. Still in a recumbent position exhale fully, pressing lightly with both hands upon the abdomen. In- hale fully, resisting pressure, which should increase with 238 THE SKIN. each time the exercise is performed. These two exercises will make the diaphragm strong and elastic, and the en- tire lung tissue will be expanded. Repeat this five times at first, increasing gradually. Exercise III. Assume military position. In order to ascertain if this is properly done, stand with the body touching the wall, and if the back of head, shoulders, but- tocks and heels touch, the attitude is correct. Then place Figure I. Figure II. hands on side close to armpits, as illustrated in Figure I, and resist expansion of side muscles. Exhale with pres- sure still continued, and during the exercise proceed with mental counting, as directed in first exercise. Perform five times. Exercise IV. Assume attitude as in Figure I. placing hands on upper part- of chest and again inhale against the . -.- - pressure of the hands, exhale without the pressure. Con- tinue the counting as before and use the same number of Exerc : — . ^ume attitude seen in Figure II, and inhale while raising the hands straight out and up. exhale while coming back to original position. Continue counting This work ellent for raising the chest walls and for lengthening the waisL Ex YL Assume the attitude of Figure II, and ;. i ■ . * " c : ~ - ■ . . bringing them up to original position. Continue counting before, and after the fir- ^eccHld trial exert a Httfc pressure, bringing them up against this and relaxing as the an: - g iown. 240 THE SKIN. Exercise VII. Assume position of Figure III, throw- ing the head back as far as possible, and interlacing the fingers back of the head. Fill the lungs to the utmost ca- pacity, hold the breath, and then resist, and in spite of resistance pull the head downward, at the same time ex- haling. This is rather violent and cannot be done success- fully at first. In beginning, two trials will be sufficient, gradually arriving at five and never performing any more than this number of exercises at any lesson. Exercise VIII. Assume position shown in Figure I, Figure V. Figure VI. with hands at side, a'nd exhale all of the air from the lungs. While holding them empty draw in the abdomen as much as possible, and then extend it forward to its greatest ca- pacity. Do this as rapidly and as often as control over THE SKIN. 241 respiration will permit. It will strengthen the stomach and will reduce superfluous flesh over abdomen as no other method can. This ends the exercises in breathing, and as these are positively the best to be obtained the student who learns them correctly and prac- tices them methodically will be positive of improvement. In practicing breathing, a feel- ing of dizziness is often experi- enced, and in some instances the action of the heart is greatly in- creased. In such an event, do not attempt to work until every un- comfortable sensation has depart- ed, for it will not benefit. The average rate of inspiration is from ten to twelve seconds, with fifteen for exhalation. It is not neces- sary for the average person to de- velop too greatly, so when this point is reached it maybe as well to continue the work at about this rate. After a week or so of systematic effort the exercises may be per- formed with ease in a very short time, and the vital ca- pacity will be found surprisingly increased. CHAPTER XXXI. BODY MOVEMENTS. Fully one-half the ailments that perturb the feminine portion of the world could be avoided if women would but be persuaded to exercise properly. If, in addition, they w r ould eat wisely, bathe systematically and rest when neces- sary the number of invalids would indeed be few. Happily for the advocates of "healthful living/' the proper system of exercising is usually a means to an end, and after the proper system of exercising has been taught, the pupils, in delight at the improvement in appearance and in capacity for work as well as enjoyment, are usually only too anxious to proceed in the path outlined. Thus the evo- lution of the best system may be insured. The world of to-day is an exceedingly busy one. Nearly every one is engrossed in a mad endeavor to accomplish some purpose, and this object usually requires every spare moment of time. The lined brows, nervous, twitching eyes and pallid cheeks of these victims of modern progress point only too plainly to the price paid for the accomplishment. This condition is not limited to any particular class, for in every grade of society the number of overworked are to be found. The busy housewife, nervous society woman, tired clerk and overworked teacher acknowledge the need for rest and change, but fail to find leisure in which to make an effort toward improvement. As a consequence the number of interested workers in the realm of physiological develop- ment is correspondingly small, and some plan must be de- vised by which the work may be made possible for all classes. THE SKIN. 243 In the preceding exercises the attention has been paid more particularly to the development of the lungs, improve- ment of circulation and exercise of abdominal muscles with a view to strengthening the diaphragm. These that follow will be particularly adapted to strengthening the muscles of the arms, legs and back, and will be excellent for produc- ing a symmetrical development of the figure and a reduc- tion of superfluous flesh. Exercise I. Assume position of Figure II, and then bend from side to side, as illustrated in Figure IV, keeping the knees rigid and heels together. This exercise should be performed at least twenty times with arms outstretched as seen in illustration. Reduction of the hips will follow the use of this exercise, and also a lengthening of the waist line. Exercise II. Assume military position, as illustrated in Figure I. Then stand with the feet apart and the toe of one slightly raised as the hands on one side slips down toward the knee while the other is kept under the arm. Alternate this work first on one side, then on the other, as the one hand conies up, the other must slide down, until this has been done twenty times. This is called "lifting the liver" and is excellent for curing constipation. Exercise III. Assume positions shown in line draw- ings, A, B, C. First the military attitude as in A, placing hands on back of chair. Then raise on tiptoes, as shown in Figure B, and descend into a sitting position, as shown in Figure C. In this work, ascend on the toes as high as possible and descend as near the ground as can be, all of the time keeping the body erect and steady. A very good way to perform this work is by placing a book or some other object on the head and attempt to do the work in this manner. In this way the erect position will be maintained. Repeat until the muscles ache. 244 THE SKIN. Exercise IV. Assume position of Figure £), raising the arms high over the head, bringing them forward in a sweep and touching the toes without bending the knees, as in Fig- ure E. This will seem very difficult at first, but after a short time can be easily done. Exercise V. Repeat same exercise, but twist the body to the side, and attempt to touch the heels instead of the toes. Repeat, first on the left side and then on the right. This is extremely difficult and may require too much exer- tion from some beginners, so should be attempted once at the first lesson and never done more than three times in succession. Fig. A. Fig. B. Fig. C. Fig. D. Fig. E. Exercise VI. While in bending position illustrated in Figure E, bring the hands against pressure, out at each side, and up as far as possible. Do this at least five times. Exercise VII. Raise the hands above the head, as in Figure D. Turn the arms until the palms meet over the head, lower them with palms still upward, until on a level with the shoulders, and then drop them to sides. This ex- ercise rests the heart and is best performed during the course of exercises rather than at the beginning or end. THE SKIN. 245 Exercise VIII. Take attitude shown in Figure V, and bend with hands held above the head as far backward and as far forward as possible without changing position of hands or allowing the knees to bend. In this exercise first one foot is advanced and then the other, and the work is continued until at least twenty trials have been made. Exercise IX. This is excellent to make the body supple and should be practiced diligently. Figure VI illustrates nicely just the position to be maintained. The weight rests on one foot and the toe of the other just misses the ground, the limb being held stretched out as far as possible, while a rotary motion of the entire body is practiced until a semi-circle is described. This work may be done first with one foot extended, then the other, and in time will be found very easy. Exercise X. In this, the practice of balance is made possible by taking pose seen in Figure VII and by attempt- ing to touch the floor with a handkerchief in the hand on same side that knee is kept rigid, while the other hand is held in such a manner that balance may be maintained. This will need to be attempted many times before suc- cess crowns one's efforts. Of course there are countless changes on the exercises enumerated, as well as many that are entirely different. It would require so much time to perform all of them that not one person in a hundred would even dream of attempting them, hence just those most practical have been given. In beginning, perhaps .twenty minutes day and night will be required in order to perform the work well. After some little practice, twenty or twenty-five minutes will be quite sufficient for this purpose. It must be remembered in this work that symmetrical development means the equal development of all parts of the body. Hence in exercising 246 THE SKIN. there can be no favoritism shown, but, instead, the work must be done as directed. In this way every muscle will be sufficiently employed. The saying that- "it is not what we know, but what we do with what we know that makes success in business, love or health," is fully exemplified in this work of developing the body. Perseverance is a most necessary part of any attempt of this kind and will make the results exactly what they are desired to be. N. B. — It has been the aim of the author to make this book a practical method of instruction for all women who wish to work correctly. Any points that are not clearly understood will be cheerfully explained to all who ad- dress their communications to EMILY LLOYD, Suite 720, Western Methodist Book Concern Bldg., CHICAGO, ILL. INDEX PAGE Abnormally Sensitive Skin 92 Advisability of Using Discretion in Work 18 After-Treatment by Electricity 63 Almonda Cream 26 Anecdote of Educator 233 Ancient Customs in Regard to Ointments 21 Appearance of Normal Skin 15 Appearance of Pure Oils 25 Appliances that Cause Wrinkles 33 Approaching Age 16 Antiquity of Powder 101 Arms, How to Improve 175 Art of Bathing 106 Astringent, How Used 63 Attainment of Perfect Development 42 Bad Breath 186 iBand, Head 137 Bandaging Feet for Removing Inflammation 191 Bandaging Inflamed Joint 195 Banishing the Crows' Feet 33 Bath, Bran 108 Bath, Electric 108 Bath, Faradic 109 Battery for Office Work 122 Battery, Fourteen Dry Cell 121 Battery Fluid 128 Battery, Ideal 125 Battery, Mcintosh, Dry Cell 148 Battery, Section of Faradic 131 Battery, Section of Galvanic 129 Battery, Simplest Form 119 Bathing, The Art of 106 Bath, Liquid 107 Bathing Powder 103 Bath, Sulphur 108 Benefit to be Found by Dieting 223 Benefit Derived from Electric Needle 73 Best Needle to Use 139 Blackheads 64 Blackheads, How to Cure 78 Blackheads, How to Remove 66 INDEX. 249 PAGE Blackheads, How to Treat 67 Blackheads, Special Massage for 65 Bland Ointment 213 Blanching the Skin 151 Bleaching Hair on Arms 176 Bleaching the Hair 216 Bleaching Liquid for Moth Patch 83 Bleaching Lotion for Nails 173 Bleaches, Powerful Cause Cauterization , 16 Bleaching the Skin 153 Body Movements . 242 Bran Bath 108 Bran Shampoo , 200 Brush, Proper for Teeth 186 Breath, Bad 186 Breathing, Full 233 Breathing through Nostrils 235 Buffer, Use of 171 Busy Women May Exercise 236 Care of the Feet 189 Care of the Hands 161 Care of the Hair 197 Care of Neck 177 Care of Skin 21 Cause of Age Lines 34 Causes of Obesity 223 Cauterization, Produced by Powerful Bleaches 16 Caution in Using Proper Pole 146 Certainty of Improvement in Using Proper Treatment 63 Chilblains 196 Chin, Treated by Rotary Motion 60 Cheeks, How Massaged 59 Chloasma 82 Cleansing and Opening Pimples 69 Cleansing of Scalp 199 Cleansing Mixture for Sensitive Skin 93 Clipping Hair 208 Cold Water for Puffiness of Eyes 59 Combined Office Plate. . . 124 Comedone Extractor ", 67 Comedone Extractor, Use of 68 Constipation a 77 Contents, Table of ' 9 Correct Breathing 236 Corn Cure 192 Coarse Pores 90 Cosmetic Defects of Mouth 182 Cosmetics, Harmful , 32 250 INDEX. PAGE Cost of Recharging Battery 122 Cream, Almonda .' 26 Creams Afford Protection 20 Creams Are Necessary 20 Creme Celeste 26 Cream, Cucumber 29 Creams Do Not Cause Growth of Hair 22 Cream, Delight of Harem "27 Cream for Eruptions 29 Cream, Traveler's Comfort 100 Cream, Strawberry 28 Cucumber Cream 29 Cup, Sterilized 47 Cure of Blackheads, Pimples, etc 74 Cure of Corns 194 Current, Electric, Direction of 119 Current, Electric, How Produced 119 Current, Galvanic, How to Detect 130 Customs of Ancients in Regard to Ointments 21 Dandruff, Removal of 211 Dandruff, Simple Shampoo for 213 Dandruff, Tonic for 213 Dandruff or Scurf, Treatment of 209 Dandruff, Varieties of 210 Danger of Producing Scars in Removing Hair 126 Dedication 2 Defects, Cosmetic of Mouth 182 Delight of the Harem, Cream 27 Depilatory Forceps 135 Depilatory, for Use on Arms 176 Deep Lines on Neck 60 Deep Massage for Pimples 69 Dentifrice, Powdered 185 Dentifrice, Liquid 185 Development, Physiological 232 Diet Advised for Oily Skins 87 Diet and Directions for Home Work on Blackheads 74 Diet List for Increasing Flesh 229 Diet List for Reducing Flesh 224 Difficulty in Massaging Mouth 60 Direction of Electric Current 119 Directions for Home Work on Blackheads 74 Discretion Advisable in Caring for Skin 18 Disc, Needle, for Removing Naevi 147 Discolorations of Skin 151 Disguise for Red Hands 165 Dry and Flabby Skins 92 Dry Cell Batteries , 11 INDEX. 251 PAGE Dry Cell Combined Battery 121 Dry Cell, Mcintosh Battery 148 Dusting Powder for Moist Hands 165 Dye, Instantaneous Hair 219 Dyeing the Hair 216 Dyes, Vegetable and Organic 217 Effect of Advancing Years on Hair Growth 22 Egg Shampoo 201 Electricity, as an After-Treatment 63 Electric Current, How Produced 119 Electric Disturbance 118 Electric Battery, Ideal 125 Electric Battery, Simplest Form 119 Electric Bath 108 Electric Brush for Treating Scalp 204 Electric Current, Direction of 119 Electricity, Use of 118 Electrolysis, Outfit for 147 Electrolysis for Removing Hair 133 Electrolysis for Removing Moles 142 Emphasis on Gentle Treatment 35 Enlarging the Breasts 178 Erasing the Long Lines 43 Eruptions, Complicating Use of Electric Needle 128 Exercise for Busy Women 236 Exercises to be Practiced 237 Experiment in Producing Electricity 118 Experienced Worker Has Knowledge 21 External Applications Necessary 17 Face, Prepared for Massage 41 Failure to Obtain Current from Battery 132 Faradic Bath 109 Faradic Battery, Section of 131 Faradic Massage 154 Faradone, Use of 159 Feet Bandaged, for Inflammation 191 Feet, Care of 189 Feet, Massage of 190 Feet, Perspiration of 196 File, Use of 163 Finding Hair Follicle 138 First Sign of Approaching Age 16 Flabby Skins 92 Fluid, for Battery 128 Forceps, Depilatory 135 For Painful Joints 192 Foot Tonic 191 252 INDEX. PAG Freckles, Tan and Sunburn 96 Fresh Air 236 Full Breathing 233 Galvanic Battery, Section of 129 Galvanic Current, Use of 150 Galvanic Current, How to Detect 130 Galvanic Current, Use for Bleaching 150 Galvanic Current, Used for Removing Superfluous Hair 135 Galvanic Current for Removing Moles 142 Galvanic Current, Strength Used 144 Galvanic and Faradic Plate 124 Galvanic Plate 123 Gentle Treatment in Facial Work Emphasized 35 Green Soap, Tincture of 75 Growth of Hair as Years Advance 22 Growth of Hair not Caused by Creams 22 Gums, Treatment of 183 Habit Lines 32 Hair Brush Electrode 206 Hair, Care of the 197 Hair Clipping 208 Hair Dye 219 Hair, How to Dye and Bleach 216 Hair and Scalp, Treatment of 203 Hair, Vermin in 202 Hands, Care of the 161 Harmful Cosmetics 32 Hard Rubber Needle Holder 135 Head Band and Magnifying Glass 137 Head Lamp .". . . 136 Henna Paste 218 Healthy Hue of Skin 16 Heart, Resting the 244 Hips, How to Reduce 243 Hollow Spaces on Neck 177 Home Work in Cure of Blackheads 75 How to Become Plump 227 How to Cure Blackheads 78 How to Detect Galvanic Current 130 How to Dye and Bleach the Hair 216 How Electric Current May Be Produced 119 How to Grow Thin 222 How to Improve the Arms 175 How to Improve the Neck and Bust 175 How to Improve the Shoulders 175 How to Massage 55 How to Proceed in Blackhead Work <>4 INDEX. 253 PAG How to Prepare the Face for Massage 44 How to Remove Blackheads 67 How to Remove Moles 142 How to Remove Superfluous Hair 134 How to Sterilize 112 How to Tell a Good Cream 21 How to Use the Baths 77 How to Use the Neurotone 159 How to Use the Water Massage 40 Hypodermic Syringe, How to Use 70 Ideal Battery 125 111 Health and Wrinkles 33 Illustrations, List of 14 Important Features of Outfit for Electrolysis 147 Importance of Using Zinc Ointment 141 Improvement Certain in Facial Treatments 63 Incrustations on Teeth 184 Inflammation of Joint 193 Ingrown Nails 194 Irritation Hastens Flaking of Skin 16 Instantaneous Hair Dye 219 Instruments, Sterilizing of 112 Inflammation, Removed by Bandaging Feet . . 191 Introduction 3 Jelly, Rose 164 Jelly, Violet 98 Joint, Massage of 193 Knowledge, Valuable, of Experienced Worker 21 Lanugo, or Wool Hair 22 Lines of Age . . . , 34 Lines About the Eyes 46 Lines Upon the Face 50 Lines, Caused by Weak Eves 34 List, Diet, for Increasing Flesh 229 List, Diet, for Reducing Flesh 224 Lines on Forehead 57 Liquid Bath 98 Liver Patches 82 Liquid Powder 104 Lotion for Rough Skin .' . ', 176 Magnifying Glass 135 Magnifying Glass on Head Band 137 Mallet Treatment 60 Manicure Outfit Necessary 170 Manner of Making Powder 102 254 INDEX. PAGE Manner of Shampooing 200 Manner of Treating Milia ' 79 Manufacture of Creams 24 Massage 39 Massage of the Eyelid 52 Massage of Feet 190 Massage of Joint 193 Massage of Nose 59 Massage of Neck 54 Massage Preserves Youth . . 39 Massage Roller 156 Massage Roller, Use of 156 Massage, Rotary Motion , 49 Massage of Scalp 207 Massage with Use of Faradic Current 154 Massage, Water 40 Mask for Stippled Skins . . 88 Masseuse Obtains Results 78 Mcintosh Dry Cell Battery 148 Mechanical Appliances, Injurious to Skin 33 Medici Powder 104 Naevi, Treatment of 143 Naevi or Wine Marks 146 Nail Powder 173 Nails, Ingrown 194 Natural Oil of Skin 15 Neck and Bust, How to Improve 175 Necessity for Ventilation of Hair 203 Necessary Utensils in Making Creams 26 Needle, Best to Use in Electrolysis 139 Needle, Bulbous Pointed for Electrolysis 141 Needle Entering Hair Follicle 139 Needle Disc for Removing Naevi 147 Needle, Selection of 138 Negative Current, Why Used 137 Neglect of Scalp 198 Nose, How Massaged 59 Normal Skin 15 Nutrition of Flesh Improved 65 Obstinate Freckles 92! Oily Skins 86 Ointments, as Used by Ancient Nations 21 Ointments, Bland, for Dandruff 213 Ointment for Vermin in the Hair 202 Ointment, Zinc 141 Orange VVood Stick, Use of 166 Outfit, Important Feature of Electrolysis 147 Oxygen, a Necessity 235 7 INDEX. 255 PAGE Patrician Hand 161 Pastilles for Breath 187 Paste for Neck and Shoulders 178 Paste, Strawberry 28 Painful Sunburn 99 Perfect Development, When Attained 42 Perspiration of Feet 196 Perfect Teeth 184 Peroxide of Hydrogen for Muddy Skins 89 Physiological Development 231 Pigment Cells 16 Pimples 67 Powerful Bleaches Cause Cauterization 16 Powder, Bathing 103 Powder for Dusting into Shoes 196 Positive Pole, How Used 137 Powerful Remedies for Treating Moth Patch 82 Removal of Superfluous Hair 133 Removal of Moles 142 Resting the Heart 244 Resuscitation of the Drowned 132 Results Obtained by Masseuse 78 Roller 156 Rotary Motion, On and About Chin 60 Rose Jelly 164 Saving the Hands 165 Scalp, Bland Ointment for 213 Scalp Cleanser 211 Scales Cast off Constantly 16 Scaly, Dry and Flabby Skins 92 Scalp and Hair, Treatment of 203 Scalp Massage 207 Scars, Danger of Producing 126 Scars Left by Pimples Improperly Treated 71 Scurf or Dandruff, Treatment of 209 Section of Faradic Battery 131 Section of Galvanic Battery 129 Selection of Needle 138 Shampoo, Bran 200 Shampoo Mixture 201 Shoulders, How to Improve 175 Simplest Form of Galvanic Cell 119 Simple Shampoo for Dandruff 213 Skin, Blanching the 151 Skin, Bleaching the 153 Skin, Discolorations of 151 Skin Food 30 Skin Possessed of Natural Oil 15 256 INDEX. PAGE Smooth Skin after Successful Work 72 Soap '. '.HO Soothing Ointment for Mouth 183 Solution for Receding Gums 184 Stick Polish, Use of 169 Stimulating the Skin by Faradic Current 155 Stimulating Tonic 205 Stippled and Sallow Skins 86 Sterilizing Instruments 112 Sterilization of Massage Cup 44 Strawberry Cream 28 Strawberry Paste 28 Street Current with Rheostat 124 Strengthening the Muscles < 243 Subject to Sterilizing Instruments 112 Substitutes for Oils 23 Success of Treatments, Properly Given 19 Sulphur Bath 108 Sunburn 96 Systematic Work Valuable 41 Table of Contents 9 Table of Correct Body Weights 225 Tan and Sunburn 96 Teeth 181 Teeth, Perfect 186 The Ideal Masseuse 39 The Mouth and Teeth 181 Thickness of Skin ? 15 Tincture of Green Soap 75 Tinting Powder 103 Tonic for Dandruff 213 Tonic for Oily Scalp . . 214 Tonic for Stimulating Hair 205 Toothache Remedy 187 Travelers' Comfort Cream 100 Traveling Made Comfortable by Creams 20 Treatment of Dandruff or Scurf 209 Treatment of Pimples 71 Treatment of Moles, Warts and Naevi 143 Treatments, Properly Given, Successful 19 Treatment of Scalp and Hair 203 Use of Astringent 61 Use of Buffer 171 Use of Creams, When Traveling 20 Use of Electricity . 118 Use of the Faradic Current 154 Use of the Faradone 159 Use of Files 163 INDEX. 257 PAGE Use of Galvanic Current 150 Use of the Massage Roller 156 Use of Orangewood Stick 166 Use of Parchment Strips 38 Use of Powder 101 Use of Stick Polish 169 Use of Water Massage 40 Use of the Vibratile 62 Using the Comedone Extractor 68 Using the Hair Brush Electrode 204 Using Hypodermic Syringe 70 Utensils Necessary in Making Creams 26 Value of Systematic Work 41 Value of Taking Rest 228 Varieties of Blackheads 65 Vegetable and Organic Dyes 217 Vegetable Powder 102 Vertical Lines 58 Vibratile 156 Vibratile in Use . . . , 62 Violet Jelly 107 Vermin in Hair 202 Warts, Treatment of 143 Wash for Mouth 184 Water Massage 40 Wet Cell Batteries 124 Weak Eyes Cause Lines 34 Weather Worn Appearance Caused by Tan 98 Weights, Table of Body 125 What Causes Wrinkles 32 W T hitening Paste for the Hands 165 Why Creams are Necessary 20 Why We Massage 39 Withered Skins 93 Wool Hair, or Lanugo 22 Women, Busy, May Exercise 236 Work of Electrolysis Remunerative 128 Work, How Long to, in Electrolysis 126 Work of Massaging the Face 57 Work on Warty Growths 145 Wrinkles, and What Causes Them 32 Wrinkle Treatment, Certainty 'of Improvement in 63 Youthful Appearance of Ancient Greeks 21 Youth Preserved by Massage 39 Zinc Ointment 141 Zinc Powder 127 MARINELLO Electrolytic Water Massage, complete . . .• $6.00 Comedone Extractor 1 . 25 Antiseptic and Bleaching Lotion 1 . 00 Lettuce 75 Acne Cream .50 Whitening Creme 50 Tissue Food 50 Zinc Ointment 50 Paste Soap 50 Vegetable Face Powder (absolutely pure) 50 Pencil Nail Polish 25 Geranium Jelly 25 MANUFACTURED BY MARINELLO COMPANY 57 WASHINGTON ST., CHICAGO, ILL. N. B. — It has been the aim of the authoress to make this book a practical method of instruction to all women who wish to work cor- rectly. Any points that are not clearly understood will be cheerfully explained to all who address their communications to Emily Lloyd, Suite 720, Western Methodist Book Concern Bldg., Chicago, 111. Electric Massage Battery Prepare the face with Lettuce Cream. Allow the patient to hold in his hand the metal Electrode attached to the battery. Attach the No. 1 handle and spongio disc to the other pole of the battery, and apply it to the forehead and face accord- ing to the tolerance of the patient. The Spongio Disc must be thoroughly wet, as the electricity passes through the moisture, and cannot pass through dry spongio. This application is especially beneficial in treatment of Headache, Neu- ralgia and Nervous Fatigue. The Massage Roller is used in the same manner as the Spongio Disc. Its especial merit is that when the chamois is well moistened a stronger current may be applied regularly to face and neck. Send for complete catalogue. McINTOSH BATTERY AND OPTICAL CO 39 West Randolph Street, Chicago, III. M A S S A G E McINTOSH 14 DRY CELL COMBINED BATTERY E LECT ROLYSIS L E C T R I C The best portable bat- tery on the market for work of Electrolysis and Facial Massage. Contains twelve cells in the Galvanic portion, giving ample current for removal of hair, moles, etc. Affords a smooth, even current for Facial Massage. Finely finished and covered with best leather. We are Headquarters for Dermatological Appliance. NEW VACUUM CUP MASSAGE ELECTRODE A popular and efficient instrument for vacuum massage; especially con- structed to give a vacuum of proper degree for facial treatment. May be used with any faradic massage battery. Send for literature and prices McINTOSH BATTERY & OPTICAL CO. Chicago FEB 27 1905k LIBRARY OF CONGRESS I ODoatibib^i tt:iii!m!imiilHiitfi{!Hiffl 1 III llpi! lyiiiilii'lliiHlHMili