Egyptian Cosmetics
Beauty in Ancient Egypt: Cosmetics and Jewelry
Ancient Egypt has been regarded as being one of the most advanced cultures throughout history. The Egyptians came up with many great inventions that today are still in use. But most of all, they were very vain in their appearance. They were known mainly for mastering the art of beauty, and we still use many techniques and products that they came up with thousands of years ago. Cosmetics and jewelry in particular were very highly thought of and valued in Ancient Egypt. There were many cosmetics available to Ancient Egyptians. First off, the Egyptians regarded cleansing rituals as being very vital. They bathed almost everyday in a river or in a tub at home. The wealthier class had separate rooms for this in their house. Their servants poured water over their master 's head. This would be much like a shower to us. A cleansing cream was used instead of soap and was usually made out of oil, lime, and perfume. To prevent the skin from drying out in the harsh climate, Egyptians usually rubbed themselves with scented oil. The most popular basic oil was called balanos, although the most popular among the lower class was castor oil. This prevented dry and cracked skin caused by the sun and sand. This oil was made by letting flowers or scented wood soak in oil until it had absorbed the scent. At parties or social gatherings, servants would put cones of this perfumed oil on the heads of the people attending the gathering. As the night went on, the oil would melt and run down the faces of the guests. This had a cooling effect on their faces. The Egyptians also had a way of freshening their breath. They would put an aromatic liquid in their mouth, and it would be removed and renewed throughout the night. Facial hair was thought to be a sign of uncleanliness. Only a thin mustache or a goatee was acceptable. Since there was no soap, oil was most likely used to soften the area and prepare it to be shaved. Tweezers could
Ancient Egypt has been regarded as being one of the most advanced cultures throughout history. The Egyptians came up with many great inventions that today are still in use. But most of all, they were very vain in their appearance. They were known mainly for mastering the art of beauty, and we still use many techniques and products that they came up with thousands of years ago. Cosmetics and jewelry in particular were very highly thought of and valued in Ancient Egypt. There were many cosmetics available to Ancient Egyptians. First off, the Egyptians regarded cleansing rituals as being very vital. They bathed almost everyday in a river or in a tub at home. The wealthier class had separate rooms for this in their house. Their servants poured water over their master 's head. This would be much like a shower to us. A cleansing cream was used instead of soap and was usually made out of oil, lime, and perfume. To prevent the skin from drying out in the harsh climate, Egyptians usually rubbed themselves with scented oil. The most popular basic oil was called balanos, although the most popular among the lower class was castor oil. This prevented dry and cracked skin caused by the sun and sand. This oil was made by letting flowers or scented wood soak in oil until it had absorbed the scent. At parties or social gatherings, servants would put cones of this perfumed oil on the heads of the people attending the gathering. As the night went on, the oil would melt and run down the faces of the guests. This had a cooling effect on their faces. The Egyptians also had a way of freshening their breath. They would put an aromatic liquid in their mouth, and it would be removed and renewed throughout the night. Facial hair was thought to be a sign of uncleanliness. Only a thin mustache or a goatee was acceptable. Since there was no soap, oil was most likely used to soften the area and prepare it to be shaved. Tweezers could
Cited: Bitterman, Jim. "Researchers Find Health Secrets in Ancient Egyptian Eye Shadow" CNN. 22 Sept, 1999 Cosgrave, Bronwyn. The Complete History of Costume and Fashion: From Ancient Egypt to the Present Day. New York: Octopus Publishing, 2000. Ruffle, John. The Egyptians. Cornell University Press: Ithaca, 1977. Stead, Miriam. Egyptian Life. British Museum Publications: London, 1986.