History of Natural Ingredients in Cosmetics

Abstract

There has been interest in the history of cosmetics for the last several decades. In part, this renewed curiosity is probably due to the revolutionizing natural movement in the cosmetic industry. In this article, we provide an overview of the historical aspects of the use of natural ingredients in cosmetics, which mostly come from botanical and mineral sources. We begin with an introduction to the art and science of cosmetics in the ancient world, which includes accounts of Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Greek, and Roman cosmetics as well as Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic Medicine. These dermatological and cosmetic practices, which were advanced for the time, paved the way for the current revolution of natural ingredients in cosmetic products. Without providing a comprehensive historical account, we surveyed selected cultures during different periods of time to provide some perspective of our current understanding of natural ingredients in cosmetics. Attention is also given to the rich contributions of body art by tribal societies to our knowledge base, especially in the areas of dyes and pigments. Finally, we offer some perspective of natural ingredient cosmetics in the Information Age.

Effects of lip and eye color on the emotion categorization of facial expressions

“…Ancient Egyptians have always been bold in their pursuit and use of color. They combined various natural dyes to create various makeup formulas 44 . In ancient Egypt, in addition to red, purple, and brown lipsticks, they even created a blue lipstick 45 .…”

Genipa americana L.: A New Phytochemical for White Hair Coloring

“…Kohl, used by the ancient Egyptians, was made from malachite, giving it the colors green and black. Elements such as stibine, magnesium oxide and brown ocher were also found [3] . Synthetic dyes survived into the 20th century, offering long‐lasting color.…”

“…Elements such as stibine, magnesium oxide and brown ocher were also found. [3] Synthetic dyes survived into the 20th century, offering long-lasting color. Semi-permanent, ammonia-free commercial dyes were later developed, depositing the color without damaging the hair structure.…”

Characterization of the Sideritis scardica Extract SidTea+TM and Its Effect on Physiological Profile, Metabolic Health and Redox Biomarkers in Healthy Adults: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study

“…For many years, there has been a worldwide shift toward the use of natural products, particularly in the fields of medicine, cosmetics and food [ 15 , 16 ]. In corroboration, the European Medicines Agency (EMA) accepts the use of certain herbal drugs as key ingredients for the development of new treatments as well as traditional medicines whose safety is confirmed by prolonged safe use over a period of years [ 17 ].…”