Outdated hygiene practices that are anything but clean

Exploding Combs Were a Thing

In the early 20th century, a new, inexpensive material called celluloid was used to make hair combs. But it had one major drawback: it was highly flammable and could spontaneously explode near heat. People were literally catching fire while combing their hair.

Some unlucky users even died from these unexpected explosions. All in the name of style – celluloid combs proved that beauty could be both deadly and dramatic.