Throughout history, people have used different substances to improve their appearance and enhance their status. Ancient cosmetics were essential to daily life and also in religious rituals and burial rites.
For example, ancient Egyptians would often wear kohl, a cream made from the fat of sheep mixed with powdered lead or antimony and soot. They would also draw a line with this substance across their eyes.
Eyeliner and Eye Shadow
Eyeliner and eye shadow are two of the most popular forms of makeup today. They add definition and color to the eyes, enhancing their shape and making them more attractive. They can be applied to the eyes with a pencil, liquid or powder form.
In ancient times, eye liner was often a sign of status and a means of defining the eyes. It was also used as a beauty enhancer, and was thought to protect the eye area from sun damage.
Egyptians were particularly fond of eyeliner, and women and men alike lined their eyes with kohl. A small stick was dipped into a paste made of mineral blends mixed with water, which they then applied to the upper and lower rims of their eyes.
They would also darken their eyebrows with the same black eyeliner, and cheeks and lips were reddened with a mixture of ochre and a fatty substance. Henna, which was dipped in red ochre and applied to the fingernails, was also frequently used by both sexes for cosmetic purposes.
The practice of cosmetic body art dates back to at least 7,000 years ago in many cultures, including Mesopotamia and Egypt. The Old Testament references cosmetics in 2 Kings 9:30 where Jezebel painted her eyelids (approximately 840 BC) and the book of Esther describes various beauty treatments.
As far as we can tell, kohl is the oldest known form of eye liner. It was used by both sexes in ancient societies and is still widely used around the world.
While kohl is no longer used for beauty enhancement in most Western countries, it’s still an everyday staple in the Middle East and India. In Japan, for example, kohl was the beauty enhancer of choice for men and women as early as 3000 BC, and apprentice geishas outlined their eyes with charcoal nearly daily for the first three years of their careers.
It is possible that kohl-lined eyes were a protective measure against sun damage, though this may have only been in the distant past. It was also used for other reasons, such as protection from bacterial contamination to the eye area.
Lipstick
Lipstick has a long and storied association with women of all stripes. It was even a part of ancient Egyptian culture. A well designed lipstick is not only pretty to look at but it also moisturizes and enhances the natural luster of your skin making it an important component in the healthy beauty regimen. To be on the safe side, you should avoid the use of cheaply made products or those that contain preservatives or petroleum based ingredients. The best cosmetics are those that are a mix of natural and synthetic ingredients with the least number of harmful additives. This is the best way to avoid any sort of cosmetic allergy or skin reaction. Fortunately, most modern day women know how to take care of themselves.
Blush
Blush was a staple in ancient cosmetics. It was used to highlight the cheekbones, nose and forehead. It was also a popular makeup choice for actresses, especially theater directors because stage lights can make fair-skinned actors look more pale than they are.
Today’s blushes are much different from those of antiquity, but they share one major characteristic: They’re easy to obtain and use raw ingredients that can be found across the globe. Some of the most popular options included cinnabar (which was toxic), safflower, ochre and a mixture of berries and water.
But the simple truth is that blush is a beauty item that has lasted through history because of the many women who love it. It’s not just the fact that it makes you look pretty, but it’s also a health-promoting product that helps you maintain a healthy glow.
In addition, blush is an essential part of every beauty routine. Whether you prefer to apply it to your eyes, lips or cheeks, it can help you create a fresh and youthful look that’s appropriate for any occasion.
The origins of blush date back to ancient Egypt. The Egyptians were probably the first people to implement a cosmetics regime on a large scale, using powdered kohl and henna to color their eyes, lids and cheeks.
These women followed a simple skin-care regimen that included cleansing, exfoliating and moisturizing the face. They also hydrated their hair with milk and honey.
Aside from this, they also used clay mixed with water as a facial scrub and red berries to add a pop of color. Some of the most famous ancient sex queens were believed to have had pinkish skin, which led to them being referred to as “scarletts.”
Unfortunately, while blush was a fashion favorite during the 1500s to 1700s, it was not always a safe choice for women. It was not uncommon for cosmetics to contain poisonous chemicals that could cause cancer, dementia or even death. It was only until Elizabeth I brought blush back into fashion in the 1558 to 1603, that it became an acceptable option for women.
Body Oils
Oils are an excellent way to hydrate the skin, reduce itchiness, and improve your skin’s elasticity. They are also beneficial for those with acne-prone skin, as they balance oil secretion and eliminate breakouts.
Body oils are formulated with plant-based ingredients that are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fatty acids. They are also known to have occlusive properties that seal in moisture and prevent dryness from forming.
The best body oils have a smooth texture that doesn’t feel greasy. Some are a little heavier than others, so it’s best to read the label and choose one that doesn’t leave you with a heavy, slick feeling on your skin.
When using body oil, it’s important to apply it after a shower or bath when your skin is slightly damp. This helps to prevent the oil from becoming greasy, and it makes it easier for it to soak in.
Aside from moisturizing, body oils are an excellent source of vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids, which strengthen the skin barrier. They’re also a great choice for those with extremely dry or aging skin, as they help to revive and renew it by providing deep hydration.
In addition, body oils can help to improve blood circulation throughout the body, which can have a positive effect on your mood and mental health. This is why it’s so important to include body oils into your skincare routine, as they can help you relax and relieve stress while promoting healthy skin.
Lastly, body oils are an excellent massage oil that can be used to soothe sore muscles and joints. This is especially true if it includes superfats with anti-inflammatory properties.
Essential oils are a natural ingredient that are extracted from plants, like lavender and jasmine. They are then distilled, which is similar to distilling a bottle of alcoholic beverage, but does not create alcohol. The process has a minimal impact on the environment and uses steam to release the oils from the plant.