Old-fashioned hygiene practices that are anything but clean

Wigs became popular ’cause syphilis was rampant, see.

Back in the 16th century, syphilis was tearin’ through England, causin’ all sorts of nasty symptoms – sores, dementia, blindness, and especially, hair loss. Balding was considered real shameful, so loads of folks started wearin’ wigs to cover it up in style. Even King Louis XIV got in on the action, employin’ dozens of wigmakers to look after his collection of fancy headpieces.

Over time, wigs went from bein’ a medical fix to a fashion accessory and a status symbol. They were often made from real human hair, but sometimes horse or goat hair was used too. What started as a necessity ’cause of illness turned into a proud sign of the upper class.