Who Created Makeup?
The ancient Egyptians are credited with creating makeup, dating back to 6000 BCE. They believed makeup held religious significance, connecting its use to their gods. Both men and women of all social classes utilized cosmetics.
While pinpointing a single "creator" is impossible, the evidence strongly suggests the ancient Egyptians were pioneers in the art of cosmetics. Their extensive use of makeup, encompassing a wide range of the population, reveals its societal integration and importance.
- Religious Significance: The Egyptians believed makeup was a way to honor the gods and enhance their beauty. This belief system fueled the widespread adoption and development of cosmetic practices.
- Broad Societal Usage: Unlike later periods where makeup usage might be restricted by class or gender, evidence shows both men and women across all social strata in ancient Egypt used cosmetics.
- Early Forms of Makeup: The Egyptians utilized various natural ingredients to create eyeshadows, lipsticks, and other cosmetics. These included minerals, plants, and insects.
Several other cultures subsequently adopted and developed cosmetic practices, building upon the foundations laid by the ancient Egyptians. However, the earliest evidence points definitively to their pivotal role in the genesis of makeup as we understand it.
Later, the development of makeup continued evolving with innovations in ingredients and techniques. Modern makeup companies have built upon this long history, expanding upon color choices and formulas to meet diverse needs and preferences.
