9781422272879

statement) and crafted lipstick out of clay. Roman men were dying their hair blond while the women of the era were healing pimples with butter and flour. They even used sheep blood to change the color of their nails! All of this happened in the time BCE, but even after the Common Era began, cosmetics continued to play a huge role in society. Solid lipstick was invented during the 900s. Queen Elizabeth of Hungary ordered the creation of the first modern perfume in the 1300s. Like many other cosmetics made in the distant past, the uses were as much medicinal as they were for beauty purposes. Queen Elizabeth’s “Hungary water” was made from alcohol and natural elements such as thyme, rosemary, lavender, lemon, mint, and sage. It helped relieve headaches and ringing in the ears and was considered a “cure-all” since it treated various illnesses. The Egyptians also used cosmetics in a scientific way—to help ward off sickness. Famous for wearing chic clothing and intricate jewelry, it is easy to assume that their thick, black eye makeup was just another fashion statement. However, scientists have recently discovered that the Kohl used to create this bold eyeliner actually protected their eyes from infections and the glare of the hot desert sun. Females weren’t the only ones who used paint for their lips. In the Roman age, men of high social status often put lipstick on to prove their rank. Unfortunately, not all cosmetics were created through safe and scientifically sound methods. Another famous royal, England’s Queen Elizabeth, I popularized the act of painting one’s face, neck, and hands with a mixture called Venetian ceruse. The Queen believed that the use of this early cosmetic concoction made her more beautiful. Because this “mask of youth” was lead-based, the

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COSMETICS