The Ancient Origins of Makeup

Did you know?

That makeup has a rich and diverse history, with its roots stretching back thousands of years?. Here are some key points:

  1. Ancient Egypt: If we were to pinpoint a civilization that formalized the use of cosmetics, ancient Egypt stands out. Around 3000 BC, both men and women in Egypt used makeup. They adorned their eyes with kohl (a dark pigment) to repel flies and protect their eyes from diseases. Red lipstick was also popular, serving both aesthetic and protective purposes against the harsh desert sun12.

  2. Prehistoric Times: Even before written records, prehistoric humans used natural pigments for body and facial decoration. Archaeological evidence suggests that these practices date back over 7,000 years. These early cosmetic concoctions were likely used for spiritual and physical reasons1.

  3. Embodying Beauty and Ritual: Makeup began as a practice to embody spiritual and physical attributes. Over time, it transitioned from ritualistic use to more obvious beautification. Ancient Egyptians from all social classes, including low-class individuals, incorporated makeup into their daily routines1.

The Evolution of Makeup

  1. 4000 BC: Ancient Egyptians used ointments to keep their skin wrinkle-free. They also applied dark green coloring under their eyes and kohl (made by grinding ingredients like lead sulfide) to darken their lashes and upper eyelids3.

  2. Upper Class Decoration: During the first Egyptian dynasty, makeup was used by the upper class to “decorate” their eyes and distinguish themselves from the lower classes. Both men and women of the upper class wore makeup daily, with black and green being the earliest widely used colors2.

Conclusion

From ancient Egypt to modern makeup trends, cosmetics have played a significant role in human culture. Whether for aesthetics, health, or social status, makeup continues to captivate us across time and civilizations.