Girls, or rather, women started using eyelash enhancement primarily because long eyelashes were perceived as a sign of beauty, morality, and virginity, while short lashes were associated with aging, starting in ancient times.
Historical Perspective
| Time Period | Reason for Eyelash Enhancement | Materials Used | Cultural Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ancient Rome | Combatting signs of aging and enhance beauty | Burnt cork and coal | Symbol of morality and virginity; long lashes were desirable |
Around 753 BC, as noted by Pliny the Elder, short eyelashes were considered a sign of aging. To counteract this, Romans began using techniques to enhance their eyelashes.
Methods and Materials:
- Burnt Cork and Coal: The Romans used materials like burnt cork and coal to darken and lengthen their eyelashes.
- Cultural Significance: The Romans also believed long eyelashes symbolized morality and virginity, further promoting the practice of eyelash enhancement.
In summary, women started enhancing their eyelashes to achieve a more youthful appearance and conform to societal beauty standards that favored long, dark lashes, especially in ancient Roman times.
