A History of Lip Makeup

Lip Makeup, a symbol of beauty and self-expression, has a fascinating history that spans thousands of years. While lipsticks are now a staple in makeup bags worldwide, its journey from ancient rituals to modern elegance is a story worth telling.

The Ancient Beginnings

The history of lip makeup dates back to ancient Mesopotamia, around 3,000 BCE. Women in this early civilization were among the first to experiment with color for their lips, crushing gemstones to create shimmering powders they applied for adornment. Similarly, in ancient Egypt, lip makeup played a significant role in society.

Egyptian women, including the iconic Cleopatra, used crushed carmine beetles and ants to create vibrant red pigments for their lips. They combined these natural dyes with wax or oils to form an early version of lipstick. Lip color wasn’t just about beauty—it symbolized status, power, and protection. Even men adorned their lips, emphasizing the cultural importance of cosmetics in ancient Egypt.

The Evolution through Eras

Lip makeup's history is not a straight line; it reflects the changing attitudes and values of societies throughout time.

The Greek and Roman Periods 

In ancient Greece, brightly colored lips were associated with courtesans, while pale lips were preferred by respectable women. Romans also used lip color but linked it to class and status, as only wealthy women could afford the pigments derived from rare ingredients like red ochre or fucus.

The Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages in Europe, lipstick fell out of favor. The Church often associated cosmetics with vanity or sin, leading to its decline. Lip color was seen as an act of defiance or associated with witches and heretics.

The Renaissance and Beyond

The Renaissance marked the slow return of cosmetics, with queens like Elizabeth I of England popularizing red lips and a stark white complexion. Her lip color, made from beeswax and red plant-based dyes, became a trend among the nobility.

19th Century: Lipstick Takes Shape

By the 19th century, lipstick became more standardized. French cosmetic brands like Guerlain began creating tinted lip salves from natural dyes and oils, a precursor to modern lipstick. However, wearing lipstick was still controversial and often linked to actresses or "questionable" women.

The Birth of Modern Lipstick

The turning point for lipstick came in the early 20th century, when it transitioned from taboo to trend. In 1884, the first commercial lipstick was introduced in Paris by the perfume house Guerlain. This lipstick was made of deer tallow, beeswax, and castor oil and wrapped in silk paper, making it portable and fashionable.

In the 1920s, companies like Elizabeth Arden and Max Factor brought lipstick into mainstream culture. The suffragette movement even adopted red lipstick as a symbol of empowerment and defiance, solidifying its place in feminist history.

Lipstick Today

Modern lipstick owes its innovation to science and creativity. From the invention of the swivel tube in 1923 to the endless variety of shades, finishes, and formulations available today, lipstick has become an essential part of personal style.

The Power of Lipstick

Throughout history, lipstick has been more than just makeup. It’s been a symbol of power, rebellion, and self-expression. Whether crushed gemstones in Mesopotamia or high-tech vegan formulas in the 21st century, the story of lipstick mirrors humanity’s evolving relationship with beauty and identity.

Next time you apply a swipe of lipstick, remember: you're not just enhancing your look—you’re part of a history that’s thousands of years in the making.