The fascinating journey of makeup throughout history

Makeup has been a constant companion to humans, developing over time to reflect the cultural, religious, and social currents of each era. From ancient rites to the most recent internet fads, the history of makeup depicts the growth of beauty and identity over the years. We welcome you to take a journey through the various stages of cosmetics history, discovering how it has grown and influenced people's lives over time.

Makeup in ancient civilizations

Ancient Egypt: rituals and symbolism of makeup along the Nile

Ancient Egypt is one of the first places where makeup acquired deep meaning. It was used not only for beautification but also as a spiritual tool and protection. The ritual was not only an aesthetic practice but also took on religious and social significance. Both men and women used cosmetics. Her skin was anointed with perfumed oils, and her eyes were smeared with kohl, a mixture of minerals such as galena. For the Egyptians, kajal had spiritual connotations and was believed to give divine protection from the "evil eye.". They also colored their lips and cheeks with natural pigments, the shades of which were obtained from minerals such as iron oxide. Mesopotamia and Persia: Early Innovations and Their Influences Makeup was widely worn by both men and women, with an emphasis on beauty and protection. In Mesopotamia, fine mineral powders were used to decorate the face, and kajal was applied to the eyes to accentuate the gaze and as a talisman. Women also used balms and ointments to care for their skin and hair, reflecting a strong interest in hygiene and grooming. In Persia, makeup played a similar role, where elegance and social status were paramount. Persians used face powders to smooth the skin and natural dyes to accentuate lips and cheeks. Both empires believed that makeup had the power to attract beauty and ward off negative effects. 

Greece and Rome: Aesthetics and Health in Ancient Beauty 

Makeup was a symbol of status and nobility. Roman women in particular were famous for their elaborate beauty rituals, which included facial masks made from honey and natural oils. But makeup also had its critics, and at certain periods in Roman history, the excessive use of makeup was condemned by moralists. Nevertheless, the makeup techniques of these civilizations laid the foundations for what would come in later centuries.

Transformations in the Middle Ages and the Renaissance

Medieval Darkness: The Rejection and Revival of Makeup During the Middle Ages, makeup fell out of favor in many parts of Europe because it was associated with vanity and sin. The Catholic Church condemned its use, associating it with lust and deception. Despite these restrictions, aristocratic women continued to use white powder to whiten their skin, a symbol of status and chastity at the time. They used wheat flour and other minerals to whiten their faces, despite the health risks. Rouge and lipstick were used sparingly and were made from plants such as saffron and alkanet root. Eye makeup was not very common because it was associated with vanity. However, in some areas, women would paint their eyebrows and eyelashes black with charcoal or soot. 

Renaissance: A revival of beauty and cosmetic opulence 

During the Renaissance, makeup also underwent a Renaissance, reflecting the growing interest in beauty, art, and fashion. White skin continued to be an ideal associated with purity and high social status. To achieve this, women used white lead powder, despite its toxicity. To create a healthy look, a subtle blush made from natural pigments such as carmine was applied to the cheeks. Soft red and pink tones were emphasized on the lips, and eyebrow care was also an essential part of the look. Many women plucked their eyebrows completely or thinned them out considerably, then repainted them to achieve the ideal shape. The use of perfumes and aromatic oils was common, not only for beauty but also to mask odor. Makeup during this period blended artistry and sophistication, striving for a balance between natural beauty and elegance.

Medieval darkness:

The Rejection and Revival of Makeup During the Middle Ages, makeup fell out of favor in many parts of Europe because it was associated with vanity and sin. The Catholic Church condemned its use, associating it with lust and deception. Despite these restrictions, aristocratic women continued to use white powder to whiten their skin, a symbol of status and chastity at the time. They used wheat flour and other minerals to whiten their faces, despite the health risks. Rouge and lipstick were used sparingly and were made from plants such as saffron and alkanet root. Eye makeup was not very common because it was associated with vanity. However, in some areas, women would paint their eyebrows and eyelashes black with charcoal or soot. 

Renaissance: A revival of beauty and cosmetic opulence 

During the Renaissance, makeup also underwent a Renaissance, reflecting the growing interest in beauty, art, and fashion. White skin continued to be an ideal associated with purity and high social status. To achieve this, women used white lead powder, despite its toxicity. To create a healthy look, a subtle blush made from natural pigments such as carmine was applied to the cheeks. Soft red and pink tones were emphasized on the lips, and eyebrow care was also an essential part of the look. Many women plucked their eyebrows completely or thinned them out considerably, then repainted them to achieve the ideal shape. The use of perfumes and aromatic oils was common, not only for beauty but also to mask odor. Makeup during this period blended artistry and sophistication, striving for a balance between natural beauty and elegance.

The 18th and 19th centuries: from aristocracy to the industrial revolution

Rococo and Exaggerated Beauty: Influence of the French Aristocracy

In the 18th century, under the influence of the French court, makeup became a real fashion. Women (and some men) applied thick layers of white powder and plenty of lipstick. Makeup became a form of public self-expression, especially by taking advantage of strategically placed beauty points on the face to accentuate their charms and hide flaws. Eyebrows were made thin and dark to add expression to the face. This elaborate makeup and luxurious hairstyle reflected the wealth and playfulness of the time.

The Victorian era: morality, modesty, and the fight against makeup

The Victorian era brought dramatic changes. Queen Victoria openly denounced makeup, viewing it as a vulgar tool of the lower classes. However, social pressure to maintain a clean and healthy appearance meant that makeup continued to be worn, albeit more modestly and privately. Rouge was used very sparingly, only to add a touch of healthy color, along with homemade remedies and discreet products made from beets and rose petals. Makeup was kept to a minimum, as there was an emphasis on the appearance of purity and nobility. Cosmetics and beauty products were widely available, but they were always used in seemingly natural, hassle-free ways.

The 20th century: the age of makeup innovation

1920-1940: Flappers and Hollywood Glamour

The 20th century gave birth to modern makeup as we know it today. The flapper makeup of the 1920s broke with traditional norms and reflected a new era of freedom and boldness. These young, modern women opted for a bold look with bright red lips, smoky eyes, and thin, curved eyebrows. The use of dark lipstick and black eyeliner became iconic, creating a dramatic and seductive look that ignored traditional norms. This style was heavily influenced by Hollywood movies, which started to popularize cosmetics on an unprecedented scale. Hollywood glamour in the 1930s and 1940s took makeup to a new level and popularized the image of the movie star as a symbol of sophistication and elegance. Flawless skin, well-formed red lips, and long, curved eyelashes became the ideal of beauty. Inspired by screen divas, this style had a major impact on makeup trends, making glamour an aspirational ideal for many women. 

1950-1970: An explosion of color and women's liberation 

The 1960s and 1970s saw an explosion of color in makeup, reflecting change and the spirit of women's liberation. During these decades, women broke away from traditional forms and adopted bold, creative styles that expressed individuality and freedom. The eyes took center stage, accentuating the look with bright eyeshadows in blue, green, and purple, combined with thick eyeliner and false eyelashes. Lips also came in a variety of colors, from neutral to the most intense reds and pinks. Influenced by movements such as Mod and Hippie, the pop culture and fashion of the time encouraged unprecedented experimentation with makeup. This era represented the moment when women began to use makeup not only to enhance their beauty but also as a means of self-expression and empowerment.

1980-2000: the era of extravagance and globalization

From 1980 to today, makeup has been a symbol of creativity and cultural diversity. The 1980s were characterized by maximalism—intense and contrasting colors, bright eyeshadow, bold lips, and strong contours. The decade was characterized by excess, reflecting a spirit of boldness and self-expression. With globalization, makeup trends have merged and spread rapidly through mass media, creating a melting pot of different styles. From natural to elaborate, you can find inspiration from every corner of the world. The influence of social media and influencers has democratized access to products and techniques, making makeup a tool of empowerment and a platform of diversity and inclusivity where each individual can define their own beauty. 

21st Century Trends: Makeup in the Digital Age 

2000-2020: Makeup on Social Media, from Natural to Experimental 

The 21st century has been an era of digital revolution, changing the way we consume and use cosmetics. Social media in particular has played a key role in popularizing new trends. From contouring popularized by Kim Kardashian to the natural beauty look promoted by influencers, makeup has become greatly democratized and diversified. Today, makeup has become a form of artistic and personal expression that reflects the diversity and individuality of each person. As trends evolve and incorporate innovative technologies such as long-lasting products and high-quality formulations, makeup offers a wide range of options to suit every style and taste. From elegant minimalism to bold, colorful creations, today's makeup celebrates creative freedom and authenticity. Additionally, growing awareness of sustainability and ethics in production has led to an increase in the use of animal-friendly and eco-friendly products. In short, modern makeup not only accentuates outer beauty but also empowers people to feel confident and authentic in their own skin.