As early as 10,000 BCE, both men and women used scented oils and ointments

to clean and soften the skin (and to mask body odor), and dyes and paints to
color it. They rouged their lips and cheeks, stained their nails with henna, and
lined their eyes and eyebrows heavily with kohl, a dark-colored powder made
variously of crushed antimony, burnt almonds, lead, oxidized copper, ochre,
ash, malachite and chrysocolla, a blue-green copper ore.
The Egyptians were among the first to use cosmetics and perfumes. As early as
10,000 BCE, both men and women used scented oils and ointments to clean
and soften the skin (and to mask body odor), and dyes and paints to color it.
They rouge their lips and cheeks, stained their nails with henna, and lined their
eyes and eyebrows heavily with kohl, a dark-colored powder made variously of
crushed antimony, burnt almonds, lead, oxidized copper, ochre, ash, malachite
and chrysocolla, a blue-green copper ore. Such measures were intended not
only to be aesthetically pleasing, but also to protect the wearer from the heat
of the sun and the dust of the desert. Myrrh, thyme, marjoram, chamomile,
lavender, lily, peppermint, rosemary, cedar, rose, aloe, olive oil, sesame oil and
almond oil provided the basic ingredients of most perfumes, which were
important in religious rituals and in the process of embalming the dead.
The Impact of Cleopatra's Legacy on Modern Beauty Trends
Cleopatra's love for cosmetics, especially her signature red lipstick, has had a lasting
impact on the beauty world. Her innovative use of ingredients and her understanding
of the power of color have inspired generations of makeup enthusiasts and artists.
Today, red lipstick is synonymous with glamour, confidence, and allure, thanks in
part to Cleopatra's enduring influence.