Late 1800's the History of Makeup

We can only imagine how many medical problems some of these methods caused but we can guess that at the very least it could have led to muscle paralysis and death from lead poisoning.

By the late 1800's the history of makeup shows that zinc oxide was found to be a safer alternative to lead for creating that much desired a pale look. This is one of the natural cosmetic ingredients that is commonly used today both in makeup and for sun protection.

As interest in creating cosmetics was growing and ways to preserve them were being developed the big names we still know today were starting their own lines of makeup.

Helena Rubenstein, Elizabeth Arden and Max Factor opened cosmetic salons in the early 1900's. Some of the looks that inspired these early cosmetic giants was makeup seen in the theatre and ballet of the times. Now the commercialized use of makeup really took off.

The industrial age saw a rise in the creation and use of chemicals for many different products. Cosmetic manufacturers worked with chemicals to easily create beauty products that not only worked well but also lasted on the store shelves.

Cosmetic sales grew as women found they could achieve beautiful new looks easily and affordably. These cosmetic giants led the way as each new decade is defined by it's own particular style from the classic look to the 50's to today's natural appeal and of course Hollywood continues to have a big effect on cosmetic trends.

Today's natural beauty is a reflection of how we are wanting to live our lives. Just as we have seen in the history of makeup how each period of time's idea of beauty reflects their interests, desires and the kinds of ingredients that were available.