The History of MakeUp (Coursework Sample)

The History of Makeup
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The History of Makeup
Introduction
Think about the colour of your hair, is it the original colour? Take a look at your neighbour are their lips the natural colour? Now think about their appearance and yours, does the make-up they’ve applied add to their beauty or your perception of their appeal? Do you know that beautification is older than Cleopatra? Did you know that the makeup industry is worth billions? According to the article by cosmetic info.org (2016), the use of cosmetics is as old as human civilization. This tradition dated back to early Egyptian, Roman, Mesopotamians, and Greek cultures and was associated with both male and female genders. While these earlier forms of cosmetics may bear little resemblance to the present make up options available, cosmetics had significance in beauty, religious rituals, and the promotion of good health. According to this article, while makeup may have had the function of protection from harmful sun rays, it also played a role in the identification of and distinction of classes. However, according to an article in the Business Insider by Bethany Biron (2016), the modern cosmetic industry peaked at nearly $ 532 and showed no signs of slowing down.
Body
Historically, ancient Egypt is considered the cradle of cosmetic make up with rich records of use and application of different plants and oils. In her article History of Makeup, Christy French (2016) reports the presence of various artifacts in 1st Century Egyptian tombs that point to cosmetics. The article argues for evidence of unguent jars, a substance used in skin protection and hydration. In addition, it provides information into the use of kohl in facial beautification among the Egyptians, a practice adopted by the Jews as well. Besides, kohl and unguent, cosmeticifo.org (2016) highlights the use of thyme, Myrrh, sesame oil, rose, aloe, almond oil, lavender, chamomile, lily, peppermint and lavender in Egypt for perfumes and scented oils. Concerning nail polish, the painting of the nails using egg, beeswax, or gelatin displayed class differences by ancient Chinese.
Besides the Egyptians, Greeks and Chinese also have cosmetic histories using chalk and rice powder to whiten their complexion, respectively. This obsession with complexion and the use of makeup to lighten the skin carried on to the middle ages with an assortment of methods applied. This Middle Ages obsession with beauty is highlighted in the book Chemical composition of everyday products that presents bleeding as a skin whitening cosmetic therapy by women in the 6th century to achieve. The book also presents the propagation of financial status via the use of lipstick in the 13th century as well as its association with prostitution in Spain. In addition, the authors expound on the experimental and deadly nature of cosmetic makeup application during the Renaissance.
This period in makeup history witnessed the use of chemicals such as zinc and lead in face whitening, with women in Elizabethan England mixing lead with vinegar to produce Ceruse. French (2016) denotes the fatality of this practice, while Toedt, Koza, & Cleef-Toedt (2005) highlight their effect through hair loss and receding hairlines. However, with the turn of the 20th century, new and scientifically proven methods were employed in the makeup industry. This introduction of research and development came with the advent of alternative toxin-free products, plastic surgery, and "green" products. In addition, the cosmetic industry has invested in marketing and transparency of product composition and effects. This campaign, according to Biron (2016), has been the main factor promoting the financial boom in this industry globally.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the concept of cosmetic augmentation is as old as the co