Throughout history, makeup has been a fascinating reflection of social, cultural and aesthetic evolutions.  Through eras and continents, its path is paved with rituals, symbolism, but also expressions of individuality.  How has makeup developed over the past?

Prehistoric makeup

Although prehistory leaves us with limited clues about everyday life, archaeological findings indicate that makeup had a place even in the earliest stages of human civilization.  In this era, makeup served not only aesthetic purposes, but also had a deeper meaning in rituals and beliefs.  For example, in 3200 BC, the Babylonians painted their nails with black nail polish before going to war, and this was meant to intimidate their enemies.

Mediveal makeup

In medieval Europe, women from the upper social classes often used makeup to emphasize their status and increase their attractiveness.  Red lipstick represented wealth and prestige, while the eyes, using dark colors like black and navy blue, had a mysterious meaning, representing the beauty in the very mystery of the person.

Renaissance makeup

In the Renaissance, white powder became an indispensable part of make-up.  At that time, a pale path meant a high social status.  Also, red lipstick has retained its status, but has brought new meanings, such as: passion, vitality and power.  There is a story that Queen Elizabeth I Tudor died from makeup that poisoned the blood in the veins on her face.  Apparently, she used Venetian cerus to whiten her skin, she had the impression that she was not pale enough, so she took her own life by excessive use of makeup.

Makeup before First world war

Before the First World War, European society was characterized by a shift towards a more modern approach to make-up.  Women increasingly used makeup as a means of personal expression and creating an individual style.  Throughout those years, lighter powders and pastel shades were popular, maintaining the lighter tone of the pre-war era.

Resource limitations and changes in social roles during the war led to the emergence of a minimalist look.

Makeup before Second world war

After the First World War, the twenties brought a radical change in fashion and make-up.  The lady of the "flapper" era experimented with a distinct look, emphasizing the eyes with dark pencils and shadows, while the lips were often red or a darker shade.  This free and carefree look perpetuated the spirit of the times, where society sought liberation from the constraints of war.

In World War II, the minimalist approach to makeup made a comeback, for the same reason that emerged from World War I.

Makeup in post-war period

The post-war period saw a revitalization of the makeup industry.  The revival of the economy and changes in social norms have contributed to a strong return of the desire for luxury and aesthetics.  Glamorous looks became popular, with lips highlighted with red lipstick, which perpetuated the desire to return to elegance and femininity after years of restraint and modesty during the war.

Today's makeup

In today's time, makeup has a strong influence on the perception of beauty and self-confidence.  This phenomenon is not only aesthetic, but also sociological, because it maintains the norms and values ​​of society.  Today, makeup becomes a means of expression and creativity.

This phenomenon can be viewed through the lens of marketing, where cosmetic companies influence beauty standards.  On the other hand, the movement for natural beauty stands out more and more, opposing the traditional norms of make-up.