Issue link: https://www.ascpskindeepdigital.com/i/1403510
72 ASCP Skin Deep September/October 2021 The Original Beauty Enthusiasts by Mary Barthelme Abel Skin care appears to have been started by ancient Egyptians more than 6,000 years ago ANCIENT EGYPTIANS HAD A WELL-DOCUMENTED beauty regimen. Natural ingredients—i.e., cosmetics—were first used as protection from the elements, like the sun and insects. Makeup was also used to honor gods and goddesses. Some of those natural makeup ingredients included khol, used as an eyeliner; eyeshadow made from powdered malachite and oil; and blush and lipstick made from finely ground red ochre. In terms of skin care, ancient Egyptians used castor, sesame, and moringa oils to fight wrinkles and preserve their youth. They also made a soap paste out of clay and olive oil to cleanse their skin. And Egyptian women incorporated honey and milk masks into their beauty regimens to moisturize their skin, and they took milk baths and used dead sea salts to exfoliate, rejuvenate, and heal their skin. Even hair removal—specifically sugaring—was important to ancient Egyptians. Skin care was a major part of Egyptians' daily lives, as beauty was a sign of holiness. They believed cleanliness was necessary for good health and to ward off evil. They also believed taking care of one's body was a sign of humility. We may no longer see our beauty routines as a sign of holiness, but there is something mystical about taking care of—and feeling good about—ourselves. And we have the ancient Egyptians to thank for that. SKIN HISTORY