Women have been a significant influence on cosmetics trends for as long as beauty enhancements have been documented. Women of the ancient world were often innovative when it came to their cosmetic needs. Berries were used to darken lips, the ashes of burnt matches were used to darken eyes, and roses used as pigment sources. An early form of lip balm, a clear pomade much like beeswax, was applied to the lips every morning to not only protect against the elements but to also add shine. Eye shadow was also a popular choice during the Victorian era though respectable women wore very subtle amounts.
Some homemade cosmetics initially involved the use of mercury, lead, arsenic, and leeches to achieve the pale beauty deemed appropriate during those times. Thankfully, consumers nowadays have a keener understanding of the health and safety of cosmetics. Cosmetics have become a multi-billion dollar industry, as government regulations determine the types of products that can be used in cosmetics, ensuring the safety of consumers across the world. read more