Historical Makeup

Trends

Ancient Egypt (C. 3000 BC)

Signature Look: Kohl-lined eyes, vibrant eyeshadows, and red ochre for lips and cheeks.

Purpose: Makeup was used for beauty, protection from the sun, and spiritual significance.

Materials: Ground minerals, crushed insects, and plant pigments.

Ancient Greece and Rome (C. 500BC-476 CE)

Signature Look: Natural and subtle makeup for Greeks; more elaborate cosmetics for Romans.

Purpose: Greeks valued natural beauty, while Romans used makeup to signify wealthy and status.

Materials: Olive Oil, crushed berries, charcoal, lead powders and crushed flowers.

Middle Ages (5th-15th Century)

Signature Look: Pale Complexion, minimal makeup

Purpose: Modesty and purity, influenced by the Catholic Church.

Material: White powders made from lead or chalk, simple lip balms.

Renaissance (14th-17th century)

Signature Look: Pale Skin, rosy cheeks and defined eyes

Purpose: Emulating beauty ideals portrayed in art

Materials: Lead-based cosmetics, natural pigments

Victorian Era (1837-1901)

Signature Look: Natural skin color, minimal makeup

Purpose: Makeup linked to actresses and prostitutes

Materials: Beet Juice for lips, rice powder for noses, clear pomade for lips