THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW:
History of Mascara
Mascara is one of the oldest cosmetics known today, dating back as far as 4000 B.C. when it was used by the early Egyptians. Women used natural ingredients (kohl) from native plants and animals to create black pigments, which they then applied to their eyes to draw attention to themselves. The practice was also observed by the ancient Greeks and the Babylonians, and later picked up by the Romans. Even when cosmetics in general went out of fashion after the Roman empire, Arabs continued to use eye cosmetics. The use of mascara, as well as other cosmetic products, came back into Europe during the Renaissance era.
Mascara History: Early Mascaras
The first mascaras were in pressed powder or cake forms, much like today's blushes and foundations. They were made by sifting a powder pigment into a mixture of soap chips and running them through a mill to turn them into powder. The pigment would be used throughout much of the history of mascaras. The powder was then pressed to create compact cakes. The product was applied with a moist brush to dissolve the powder and help it cling to the lashes.
Mascara History: Cream Mascara and Applicator
Another early mascara was the cream type, which had the consistency of a lotion and came in small tubes. The mascara ingredients remained the same, with the addition of natural waxes to get the required consistency. The cream was squeezed onto a small brush applicator, a process that proved too messy and led to the invention of the wand applicator in the 1960s. The now-patented design is considered a milestone in mascara history and features a grooved rod that could be slipped in between the lashes for more even application.
Modern Mascaras
The liquid mascara is the newest and most commonly used form today. The lighter consistency makes it easier and cleaner to apply and allows a range of additions to come into the mix. Liquid mascaras can now come with glitter, dyes, and even eyelash ‘extensions.' Most mascaras now come in straight tubes with the wand applicator built into the cover.
