Where Did Makeup Originate?

Most historians agree that makeup originated in the Middle East. Its exact origin dates back far into history. In fact, cosmetics were frequently mentioned in the Old Testament and other historical documents from different cultures.

The precise origin of makeup isn't entirely clear. Historians know, however, that Egyptian men and women used makeup in ancient Egypt. Lip ointments were popular and henna was used to color their nails. Women would trace their veins with blue paint and would even color their nipples with liquid gold.

Men and women during this time wore eye shadow. Green was the color of choice and they would apply it to their top and bottom eyelids. Brow and eyelash enhancers were staples as well. These types of cosmetics were made by combining black oxide, carbon, and other substances, sometimes with toxic properties, to give them a dark, almost gothic look.

Evolution of Makeup

The succeeding millenniums carried on this passion for applying makeup. Women from the Far East, particularly the Chinese and Japanese, would stain their faces with powder made from ground rice to make their complexions whiter.

The goal of achieving a pearl complexion existed in Europe as well, where men and women from European aristocratic classes would plaster chalk powder and white lead on their faces for a ghostly look. During that period, the pale look was very desirable as it distinguished the wealthy from the common people who had more of a bronze complexion. 

Another technique employed to achieve the pale look involved using powders that consisted of hydroxide, lead, and carbon which often led to poisoning. During this era, Greek women would apply red iron and ochre clay on their lips.This is perhaps the foundation of the birth of lipstick.

Makeup During the Middle Ages

Not much advancement, cosmetics-wise, was made during the Middle Ages. During the 1400s the women from England’s upper class were still seeking a pasty white complexion, although they employed slightly different tools. To achieve this look during the middle ages, they would apply egg whites onto their faces.

Alcohol and perfume bases were also brought over to Europe by the Crusaders who returned from the Middle East during this time.

Emergence of Makeup in Europe

The true emergence of makeup in Europe took place in France and Italy two centuries after the middle ages. France was responsible for establishing manufacturing sites for the production of perfumes and makeup. Their products were made from natural ingredients such as flowers, fruits, roots, and tree bark. 

The use of makeup started to spread all throughout Europe shortly after, with cosmetic-use becoming more and more common even with the poor women.

During the 1800s, the French started to develop more advanced methods for creating cosmetic products. Zinc oxide replaced the former toxic substances such as lead. The French also added life and vitality to the faces of women everywhere as they introduced the color red into their face makeup. Tinted red cheeks and red full lips became a symbol of health and beauty.

The establishment of the first beauty salons also appeared in the late 19th century.

Modern Makeup

The 1900s was the era in which modern makeup was born. With the proliferation of the mass media through television and cinema, the cosmetic industry started to boom.

Dramatic changes also occurred in trends. While pale skin used to be associated with wealth and leisure, and bronze skin was associated with the common workers, this all changed thanks to makeup artist, Max Factor. Factor developed the first ever perfumed face powder produced for all women. This made face makeup accessible to all; so, by the 1930s, makeup was made available to women of all social classes. Icons such as Greta Garbo and Marlene Dietrich were role models to women everywhere and modeled these new cosmetic treats.

Cosmetics industry giants such as Max Factor, Charles Revson from Revlon, Elizabeth Arden, and Lancôme made their mark all over the world. Makeup evolved to being more sensual and refined. Women enjoyed a wide variety of shades and colors to choose from.

Variety is still enjoyed to this day especially with the current high demand for healthier, greener, environment friendly formulas that do not only beautify women’s faces but are safe and ecological as well. With modern technology and advanced  formulas, cosmetics now come in many forms, targeting all skin types regardless of race.