History of makeup in the Renaissance

In the 15th and 16th centuries, with the arrival of the Renaissance, there was a resurgence in the arts, culture and education, and this renaissance also manifested itself in fashion and the conception of beauty. In the Middle Ages, women's grooming was frowned upon, and makeup took a back seat. However, the arrival of the Renaissance brought about a significant transformation in the perception and practice of makeup.

In this period, the ideal of beauty included fair skin, which, while still appreciated, sought a more natural approach. Instead of using intense white powders, women opted for a lighter foundation, mixing rice powder with rose water or almond oil to create a paste that was applied to the face. This foundation helped to smooth the skin and conceal imperfections.

Eyebrows, preferably sparse, were worn arched and well defined. Pencil and charcoal powder were used to shape and define the eyebrows. Women often removed their natural eyebrows and replaced them with thin, curved lines.

A very clear forehead was sought, and women often removed part of their hair to visually enlarge the forehead, influenced by classical art and depictions of Greco-Roman beauty.

Lips were colored with subtle shades of red and pink in the shape of a heart. Pigments were obtained from natural substances such as berries and flowers, and the shape of the lips was delicately drawn. Blush was used to highlight the cheeks with pink and peach tones.

Eye shadows were common, and colors such as gold, silver and brown were used to highlight the eyes. The eye line was subtly marked with Khol eyeliner, and eyelashes could be darkened with mixtures of substances such as soot and almond. In addition, polka dots were even painted because they were considered very esthetic.

It is important to note that beauty trends varied by region, social class and exact era within the Renaissance period. As the Renaissance progressed and the end of the 17th century approached, beauty trends began to evolve toward a more natural and austere approach, influenced in part by changes in social and cultural norms.

In the 16th century, the monks of the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella in Florence created the first major laboratory for cosmetics and medicinal products related to beauty and self-care. The Renaissance civilization praised makeup, encouraging its use and large-scale production.

The first treatises on cosmetics and beauty emerged in France and Italy during these centuries. In the 16th century, English noblewomen popularized the use of lead makeup. Queen Elizabeth I of England used Venetian white lead or Saturn sugar, a mixture of lead and vinegar, to cover smallpox scars. Over time, the skin lost its color, and tooth rot and hair loss occurred. In his court, the use of sage to whiten teeth and geranium petals as lipstick became popular, as well as other mercury-based products to color them.

During the Renaissance centuries, very important books were written, such as "Experiments" by Catalina de Sforza, where multiple recipes for cosmetics, perfumes, makeup and beauty were compiled. In Paris, the first beauty institute was opened, marking great advances towards the industrialization of makeup.

I hope you liked this blog and remember that "beauty and intelligence are two jewels that, when combined, create an incomparable treasure." See you in the next blog. Remember to leave a like, comment, and follow me on social networks.