The practices of self grooming and cosmetology have their origins since ancient times. People have always endeavored to make themselves more attractive, and men and women have used an endless variety of materials and substances as cosmetics for the skin and hair. As we follow the development of styles in beauty from ancient times to modern days, you will find some of the ingredients haven't changed. This brief history will acquaint you with some of the ways men and women have tried to improve upon nature by changing and enhancing their appearance. These are just a few cultures and eras that had an impact on skincare and cosmetology.

The Egyptians The earliest uses of cosmetics have been traced to the ancient Egyptians who used cosmetic preparations generously for their personal use, religious ceremonies, and for preparing the deceased for burial. After bathing the Egyptians kept their skin lubricated by applying fragrant oils, lotions or ointments.

Hebrews The Hebrews brought cosmetics and fragrances to Judea from Egypt and manufactured many preparations for the care of the skin, hair, teeth, and nails. Hebrew people were considered to have beautiful, healthy skin and hair.

Greeks From the Greek word "Kosmetikos" meaning skilled in decorating, comes our word "cosmetics." They made lavish use of perfumes and cosmetics and used them in religious rites, for personal use, and for medicinal purposes. Around 200 A.D. Galen, a Greek physician, mixed 37.5% rose water, 12.5% beeswax and 50% olive oil together and created the first modern cosmetic compound-Cold Cream. This paved the way for the commercial manufacture of Pond's Cold Cream, still a big seller over 90 years later.

The Elizabethan Era During the reign of Elizabeth 1 (1558-1603), facial masks were in vogue Formulas for lotions and packs were made from such ingredients as powdered eggshell, alum, borax and ground almond an poppy seeds Milk, butter, wine, fruits, and vegetables were also used in cosmetics, and fragrances were used lavishly Cosmetics were also used to color the cheeks and lips, but eye makeup was not in fashion.

The Age of Extravagance Marie Antoinette was Queen of France form 1755 to 1793 This era was called the Age of Extravagance During this time, women of status often bathed in strawberries and milk and used a number of extravagant cosmetic preparations They used scented powder made from pulverized starch as face powder Lips and cheeks were often highly colored in pink to orange shades Small silk patches were used to decorate the face and conceal blemishes Eyebrows were shaped and glossy substances were applied to the eyelids, but intensive color was not used on or around the eyes.

Reference: Milady's Standard Textbook for professional estheticians/Joel Gerson.-8th ed pages 14-20

Throughout the years skin care and makeup have kept evolving What era of skin care and makeup do you find fascinating?