ABSTRACT
Modern cosmetics have a rich, lengthy history full of fascinating and often terrifying secrets. This chapter explores the roots of cosmetics by starting with three ancient civilizations – Egyptian, Greek, and Chinese. The text offers concise insight into each time period looking at the products used, methods employed for application, and historical significance of styles. From there, the chapter turns toward European makeup periods – Renaissance, Elizabethan, French, and the 19th century during the industrial age. Students are given details on toxic cosmetics used for hundreds of years as well as society conventions and expectations. Shift turns toward the United States for the 20th century as the text explores the roaring twenties, cosmetics during World War II, the influence of celebrity in the 1960s, and the bold looks of the 1980s.
