History of Cosmetics

Egypt

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The use of cosmetics can be dated back about 6,000 years in the archeological record. This evidence comes from discoveries in ancient Egyptian tombs. The use of Kohl and henna stem from this time period and region of North Africa. Egyptian busts, artwork, and even medical papyrus contain extensive use of cosmetics. In Egyptian culture beauty was considered a sign of holiness. This made the use of cosmetics not about vanity but instead more about spiritual and religious beliefs. Make-up was used by both men and women of all ages. Kohl was used for probably the most physical Egyptian identifier. The trademark heavy black eyeliner we see consistently throughout Egyptian artwork. This eye make-up also served to thwart eye infection. They also mixed oils and pastes that helped protect the skin from the sun and dessert winds.

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Middle East & India

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Throughout ancient Persia (Middle East) and India cosmetics played a major role. The major cosmetic utilized in this region was Henna. Henna is a regional plant that contains lawsone in its leaves. The leaves are crushed and mixed with lemon juice, water, tea, molasses, or essential oils to form a paste. Lawsone molecules bind with proteins in the outer layer of the skin creating a long lasting dark stain. By staining the skin with this paste regional people could protect their skin from burning and create a natural cooling effect. It was later used to stain the body with decorative patterns for religious ceremonies. It can also be used to dye the hair, and nails.

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China

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China saw the development of lip cosmetics. The Chinese believed that the lips were the mirror of a woman’s temperament and character. Lip pigment and nail color were also signs of social status. In fact certain lower classes were prevented from wearing bright pigments. There was also a medicinal use of lip make-up that prevented and treated chapped lips. The first lip balms made from animal fats or wax mixed with Vermilion petal extract to create a long lasting waxy product. Different Dynasties wore different styles of lip pigment, which are shown below.

 

Japan

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Japanese cosmetics produced one of the most beautiful and iconic Japanese traditions, the Geisha. This kind of make-up is one of the most world famous images we have of Asian culture. Geishas are highly trained entertainers with skills ranging from traditional tea service, dancing, singing, instrumental, painting, game play, to conversation. It takes years of apprenticeship to become a full-fledged Geisha. Young Japanese women wear thick white make-up, originally made from a mixture of rice powder, from their hairline to their chest encircling the entire neck. The eyebrows and eyes are lined with thick black charcoal. Eyelids are highlighted with red powder and lips are painted red in various styles, but generally smaller than the actual lip size.

 

Europe

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Traditional European cosmetics were originally used to create a more pale complexion. Lighter European skin tans with exposure to the sun a trademark of the working class. The higher your status in the Middle Ages meant that you spent more time indoors out of the heat and had others doing the manual labor for you. Ladies of status would use lead and arsenic based powders that lightened the skin. This actually caused the death of many women, including Queen Elizabeth I.

 

Americas & Australia

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Tribal peoples utilized cosmetics for ceremonial and religious purposes. Face paint was used to call out directly to certain Spirits or Gods. They were also used to hide or mask oneself from a particular Spirit or God. They were also used to intimidate enemies during battle and provide a sense of strength to the wearer. Paints were made by combining minerals to get the desired color. This paste was then applied in lines, dots, or specific designs on a person’s face.

 

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