The invention of modern foundation can be attributed to Carl Baudin, a makeup artist at the Leipziger Stadt theatre in Germany.
Carl Baudin and the Origins of Foundation
Carl Baudin, in the late 19th century, wasn't aiming to create makeup as we know it today. His goal was more practical: to seamlessly blend the edge of a wig to an actor's forehead. To achieve this, he formulated a flesh-colored paste using readily available pigments – zinc white, ochre, and vermillion – mixed with lard as a base. This greasepaint served as a precursor to modern foundation, demonstrating the early desire for skin coverage and even complexion. While not strictly "foundation" as we understand the term, Baudin's innovation laid the groundwork for future developments in cosmetic skin coverage.
Key Features of Baudin's Invention:
- Practical Purpose: Initially designed to solve a theatrical problem (wig application).
- Simple Ingredients: Utilized commonly available pigments and a lard base.
- Early Form of Coverage: Provided a form of skin coverage and evened out complexion.
