A HISTORY OF COSMETICS FROM ANCIENT TIMES "A woman without paint
is like food without salt." - Roman philosopher, Plautus
Civilizations have used forms of cosmetics -- though not always
recognizable to cosmetics users today -- for centuries in
religious rituals, to enhance beauty, and to promote good
health. Cosmetic usage throughout history can be indicative of a
civilization's practical concerns, such as protection from the
sun; class system; or of its conventions of beauty. The timeline
below represents a brief history of cosmetics usage, beginning
with the Ancient Egyptians in 10,000 BCE up through the
beginning of the 20th Century. COSMETICS IN THE ANCIENT WORLD
10,000 BCE:Men and women in Egypt use scented oils and ointments
to clean and soften their skin and mask body odor. Cosmetics are
an integral part of Egyptian hygiene and health. Oils and creams
are used for protection against the hot Egyptian sun and dry
winds. Myrrh, thyme, marjoram, chamomile, lavender, lily,
peppermint, rosemary, cedar, rose,