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Comparing white lead and modern makeup

In June, I asked Taren and Shaelyn to go to Sephora to buy pale foundation makeup. I think they thought it was the best lab task ever!...

Wash, rinse, repeat

You might expect that if you rubbed a makeup that is 5% lead onto your skin that it would make you ill immediately. Having stood in my...

The unbearable lightness of makeup

I have spent parts of this week reading a textbook on ‘Measuring Colour’. At one point, my husband looked at me and said ‘You look like...

The colour of a second white lead makeup

I spent the week before Christmas testing the look of a new lead-based makeup. I was unable to resist a quick analysis of the data over...

My 'Dead Pig' Complexion

We have been measuring the colour and light reflecting properties of white lead makeup using pigskin. This is not ideal. I would have...

Exhausted but Relieved

This week has been exhausting. The pandemic is a constant stress. I am worried about my family in Europe. They are back in full lockdown....

The Poisoning at the Green Parrot Goat Farm

Halloween is a time to tell horror stories. So, tonight I will tell you a story that doctors find hair-raising. The Green Parrot Goat...

Embracing the Small Joys

This week, I let myself be happy. I literally allowed myself to jump for joy. I did it outside. It seemed unprofessional to bounce around...

Why You Should Listen to Annoying Experts

Several years ago, I needed a small and complicated piece of shielding made for a radioactive source. I was hoping to have it cast out of...

'Thankful for All Things'

This weekend is Thanksgiving in Canada. I have a lot to be thankful for. I have a good life: my family are safe and well. This year, I...

Better Living through Chemistry

A factoid that has surprised many colleagues is that I managed to successfully graduate with a degree in physics without ever taking an...

Playing Dress-up

I have always loved dressing up. As a tiny tot, I would ‘borrow’ my mum’s shoes and rifle through my gran’s handbag to find her compact...

Remembrance of Things Past

This week Shaelyn made two 18th century make-up recipes. Both smelt heavenly but were very different. The ingredient scents brought back...

Death by Footnote

There are very few things that I dislike about academic life but keeping reference lists when I write articles is one of them. Having to...

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