You may have thought that huge hairstyles were invented in the 1980s. However, if you want to see some real towering monstrosities, take a peek at some Georgian portraits.

You will notice that both men and women favoured white or very pale coloured hair. This was achieved with a mixture of starch or flour which was literally blown onto the hair by a pair of bellows.

To obtain the really big hair look, a veritable army of stylists were employed who created elaborate structures around wooden frames, often incorporating horsehair.

It was at this time that curling tongs were invented and first used. They comprised a pair of metal prongs with wooden handles. The prongs were heated in a fire and the hair was wrapped round them and allowed to cool and set.

For decoration, flowers or wax fruit were often woven into the hair. For men, it was not unknown to have model sailing ships added.

The hair was set in place and could be left set for weeks at a time. A common hazard was head lice, unsurprisingly. The Georgians designed special scratching rods to solve this problem, at least temporarily.

If the lice became especially troublesome they could be treated with an ointment. This contained mercury as a prime ingredient, however, and could result in madness or even death. Personally I’d stick to the scratching rod.

Fortunately today’s hairstyling is a much gentler matter. To get the best advice, visit one of Gloucester’s best salons, Pazazz Hair Studio, and let us help you create your dream look. Contact us on 01452 886262 or visit our website, www.pazazzhairstudio.co.uk