Cosmetics have existed throughout human history. The ancient Greeks, the Egyptians, and Romans all used various kinds of makeup. Some of these cosmetics were used to improve one’s appearance, while others were used to protect one’s skin. However, in some cases, things used for makeup were dangerous or even deadly! Skin care treatments including perfumes, lotions, and cosmetic masks were common in ancient Egypt by rich and poor alike. As the inventor of some of the earliest sunscreens, Egyptians also developed oils and creams for protection against the sun and dry winds. Egyptians, as well as other ancient cultures, used various powders on their skin for beauty as well. Thousands of years ago, Egyptians wore black kohl around their eyes, Romans put white chalk on their faces, and Indians painted red henna on their bodies.

       Even though most of the ancient cosmetics were harmless, however, in the name of beauty, some people apply hazardous chemicals and toxic materials to their skin. During the Italian Renaissance, women wore white powder made of lead on their faces. Of course, doctors today know lead is like a poison for our bodies. Also around the time of the Renaissance, women in Italy put drops of belladonna in their eyes. These belladonna drops were made from a plant whose poison affects the nerves in the body. By putting belladonna drops in her eyes, a woman’s pupils will become very large, which was thought to make women more beautiful. Actually, this is where the plant’s name comes from. In Italian, belladonna means “beautiful woman.” 

       When Elizabeth I was queen in the late 1500s, some rather harmful cosmetics were also being used by women in England. In particular, women were using special hair dye made with lead and sulphur. The dye was designed to give people red hair, the same color as the queen’s hair, but over time, the dye made people’s hair fall out. Finally, just like the queen, women using this dye ended up bald and had to wear wigs.