Best and Worst Makeup Moments in History #FacePaintBook

Summary

This video explores the historical journey of makeup, from the experimental Egyptian era where both genders wore it daily, to the subtle Greek period and the toxic yet fashionable Venetian ceruse. It delves into the 18th-century's blush overload and the Victorian era's disdain for makeup, leading to a shift in the 20th century where makeup became a symbol of fun and strength. Today, makeup lovers enjoy the freedom to choose any look they desire, reflecting a rich history of beauty and societal norms.

Takeaways

• 🇪🇬 The Egyptians were one of the earliest and most experimental societies with makeup, worn daily by both genders across social classes.
• 🏛 In classical Greek times, makeup was subtle and limited, with a preference for natural looks and ingredients derived from plants and fruits.
• 📜 Early Christian writers associated makeup with deception, shifting the perception of cosmetics from distasteful to sinful.
• 💧 During the Renaissance, makeup was about achieving a flawless, luminous look, often with homemade recipes and natural colors.
• 🎭 In 16th century Venice, makeup was dramatic and a status symbol, with the use of toxic substances like Venetian ceruse for a pale complexion.
• 🏵️ The mid 18th century saw an overload of blush as a fashion statement, especially in France, where it was a way to distinguish the aristocracy.
• 👑 Queen Victoria's views on makeup being vulgar led to a backlash, with a preference for natural, unadorned looks in polite society.
• 💄 The end of the 19th century marked a shift in makeup's perception, with the rise of theater actresses, silent films, and female emancipation.
• 🎬 Hollywood in the 20th century popularized makeup, making it a symbol of fun and strength, and accessible to the masses through fan magazines.
• 🌍 Today, makeup is a personal choice without censorship, allowing individuals to express themselves freely through various makeup looks.

Q & A

Which ancient civilization is known for being one of the earliest and most experimental with makeup?

The Egyptians are one of the earliest and most experimental societies with makeup, with both men and women of all classes wearing it daily.

What was the societal view of makeup during the classical Greek period?

During the classical Greek period, makeup was worn but anything obvious was frowned upon, especially by the male elite who believed in a woman's virtuous role and minimal makeup use.

How did early Christian writers view the use of makeup?

Early Christian writers created a powerful association between makeup and deception, making it move from being distasteful to sinful.

What was the significance of makeup in 16th century Venice?

In 16th century Venice, makeup was a sign of status and fun, with heavy dramatic makeup being common at balls and parties. Venetian ceruse, a toxic but exclusive and expensive foundation, was popular.

What was the fashionable makeup look in mid-18th century France?

In mid-18th century France, blush overload was common and makeup was all about status. The flamboyant style of applying blush was intended to distinguish the aristocracy from the middle classes.

How did Queen Victoria's views on makeup influence its use during her reign?

Queen Victoria's proclamation that makeup was vulgar and unladylike led to a backlash against makeup use, with clean, scrubbed skin being seen as morally superior.

What alternative methods did women use to create a rosy glow during the Victorian era when makeup was frowned upon?

Women used tactics like lip balms with a hint of color, pinching cheeks, biting lips, or using colored wrapping paper dampened to release dye to create a rosy glow without appearing to wear makeup.

How did the perception of makeup change at the end of the 19th century?

At the end of the 19th century, the perception of makeup changed due to the newfound respect for theater actresses, the birth of the silent movie industry, and female emancipation, making makeup fun and a symbol of strength.

What was the makeup trend for Hollywood actresses in the early 20th century?

Hollywood actresses in the early 20th century had dark, smoky eyes and small rosebud mouths, which, along with Hollywood fan magazines, fueled an insatiable appetite for makeup.

What is the current state of makeup freedom in many parts of the world according to the script?

Today, in many parts of the world, there is the power to choose any makeup look without censorship, from nude lips to vibrant colors or no makeup at all.