There's no single inventor of lotions. The earliest known use of lotion-like substances dates back to 3000 B.C. with the Ancient Sumerians and Ancient Egyptians.
A Long History of Lotions
Lotions, in their simplest form, are mixtures designed to moisturize and protect skin. Their creation wasn't a singular event but a gradual evolution of skincare practices. Ancient civilizations independently developed various concoctions serving similar purposes.
- Ancient Sumerians and Egyptians (3000 B.C.): These early civilizations used plant-based oils and other natural ingredients to create salves and ointments that functioned as early forms of lotions. These preparations were likely used for both medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
The development of lotions progressed over millennia, with advancements in understanding ingredients and formulation techniques. Modern lotions benefit from advanced chemistry and manufacturing processes, but their fundamental purpose remains the same: to hydrate and care for the skin.
