Since the days of Nefertiti, Egyptians as early as 10,000 BC used cosmetics regardless of sex and social status for both aesthetic and therapeutic reasons. Oils and ointments were rubbed onto the skin to protect it from the hot sun. Usually white make-up to deflect the light was applied. Black make-up made with carbon and lead. Green make-up from malachite and copper. Red ochre was ground and mixed with water, and applied to the lips and cheeks, painted on with a brush.
Cosmetics have been used throughout history and civilization’s matters of practicality, such as protection from the sun; class system; or the idea of beauty.
During the Elizabethan era, women of Upper class and of Nobility wore makeup as opposed to women of lower class who worked outside and were tan. Queen Elizabeth I set the standard of fashion and wore heavy white makeup which contained lead and was poisonous to conceal wrinkles and to maintain what she felt was a symbol of beauty.
In the 19th century with the emergence of film and cinema, makeup took a turn to help create a narrative for each character. Since the time of the silent film to the Golden Age of Hollywood, we have used this as a way to elevate and celebrate celebrity.
The craft of Makeup Artistry has been represented in some shape, form or fashion since the beginning of time.
When I look at each face, I carve out just what is needed for that moment. We’ve come a long way from the days of lead and poisonous products to some of the most amazing foundations, lipsticks and finishing powder, from matte to HD (High Definition).
Here is to the Evolution of Makeup!
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