Arsenic is a poisonous chemical element. It can be found in many medicines and treatments for various conditions.
Arsenic poisoning occurs when someone is exposed to too much arsenic.
The use of arsenic in medicine dates back to the 1800s, and it was used as a painkiller and anti-inflammatory agent. In the 1940s, it was found that arsenic could be used to treat some forms of cancer.
However, in the 1950s, it was discovered that there were severe side effects of using this toxic chemical element, so its use declined significantly after that point.
Arsenic Complexion Wafers
One of the more startling medicines sold to the public during the 1890s to the early 1900s were arsenic pills (wafers) sold under several brand names.
These pills contained small amounts of arsenic, just like the label says. Advertisements claimed that the arsenic dose was so small that it was harmless.
However, the pills worked by killing off red blood cells. This, according to the product claims, made the skin pale and “free from blotch.”
Effects on the Skin
The effect of arsenic on the skin depends on how much is taken into the body. If ingested, it can cause dermatitis and other skin conditions. When arsenic enters the body through the skin, it can cause lesions and ulcers to form on the skin.
