History of Makeup / Cosmetics

The first archaeological evidence of cosmetics usage is found in Ancient Egypt around 4000BC. The Ancient Greeks and Romans also used cosmetics. The Romans and Ancient Egyptians used cosmetics containing mecury and often lead.
In the western world, the advent of cosmetics was in the middle ages, although typically restricted to use within the upper classes.
Cosmetic use was frowned upon at some points in history. For example, in the 1800's, Queen Victoria publicly declared makeup improper, vulgar, and acceptable for use by actors, only. Adolf Hitler told women that face painting was for clowns and not for the women of the Master Race.
By the middle of the 20th Century, cosmetics were in widespread use in nearly all societies around the world.