The ancient Egyptians were the first known civilization to widely use makeup, dating back as far as 6000 BCE.
The Ancient Egyptian Use of Cosmetics
Both men and women in ancient Egypt used makeup. They believed that cosmetics were connected to their gods and a way to please them. This practice wasn't limited to any particular social class; it was common across Egyptian society. The use of kohl around the eyes and henna on hair was widespread. [Source: Multiple sources confirm this, including the Halifax Public Libraries blog post, Britannica, and various other online references.]
Makeup's Evolution and Modern Usage
While the Egyptians are credited with the earliest known widespread use of makeup, the practice continued and evolved throughout history in various cultures, including the ancient Greeks and Romans. The use of makeup has shifted across genders and cultures over time. While both genders used makeup extensively in ancient Egypt, it later became more associated with women in many societies. [Source: Wikipedia's entry on the history of cosmetics and Reddit's r/AskHistorians thread discuss these shifts].
Note on Modern Interpretations
Many modern examples show personal choices regarding makeup use. Some individuals may have only recently begun wearing makeup, while others choose not to wear it at all. These individual experiences do not change the historical record of the ancient Egyptians' early adoption of cosmetics. [Source: Various personal accounts and articles such as those found on LinkedIn, Instagram, Bustle, and Facebook illustrate the modern range of perspectives.]
