All the Crazy Things Women Used to Style Their Hair With

Always conscious of vanity, styling tools were a symbol of rank amongst ancient Egyptians. They used fancy, weapon-like bronze tools like these for curling and trimming their hair.

After being filled with boiling water, these glazed stoneware Thermicon hairdryers promise to "dry the hair after washing" in a matter of minutes. We'll believe it when we see it.

Tongs have been used since ancient times, but it was only in the late 19th century—when women began to wear their hair curly at the top—that they really rose to popularity. This Crompton electric curling heater was used to get the job done.

Invented by Charles Klein, this electro-prophylatic hairbrush is made of slightly-magnetized iron rods. It promised curative powers such as magneto-therapeutics—said to relieve headaches and prevent baldness.

In early 20th century France, women used these metallic, gardening tool-like waving and curling prongs to keep their hair perfectly coiffed.

In 1935, this head-shaped drying device took a hair fashion show by storm in London. Kinda like the ultimate suit of armor for a bad hair day.

Believe it or not, back in the '30s this dual lamp situation was considered a "modern" hair dryer. We're guessing it was more suitable safe for setting a hairstyle as opposed to an at-home blowout.