Lilli Kelly’s makeup time machine
Our beauty editor takes a trip back in time to uncover our ancestor’s cosmetics tricks.
Makeup and cosmetics are one of the earliest known forms of ritual in human culture. The ritualistic act of application is imbedded in every global culture. It is fascinating to think that, at least seven thousand years ago, there were ancient Egyptians applying a version of eyeshadow not too dissimilar to that of today. Our ancestors were resourceful with their ingredients and used a remarkable array of natural cosmetics. Let’s step back in time and delve into the world of ancient makeup.
Queen Nefertiti the epitome of beauty in ancient Egypt and her name translates roughly to ‘the beautiful one has arrived’. Nefertiti used her beauty tactically to aid her power over Egypt, using makeup and fashion as a tool to symbolise her prowess.
Archaeological chemists who examined the Egyptian mummies noted that her signature black cat eye was laced with toxic lead-based chemicals. However, this inky paste in fact protected eyes from the sun and boosted the ability to fight off infections. Black kohl mixed with animal fat was used to create the iconic liner shape that still influences eye makeup today.
To recreate this super powerful eye today, try Ibiza girl Charlotte Tilbury’s Rock’n’kohl pencil.
This rock, when ground into a pigment, has been used in cosmetics for thousands of years in civilisations across the globe. In fact, it is still used today - any terracotta shades you see on the market will still contain red iron oxide as a key ingredient. The pigment was originally used as a blush, creating a warm rust shade when applied to boost a healthy glow. It was also used as a lipstick when mixed with animal fats or oils.
A modern-day dupe for this beautiful shade would be Raisin Blush from Mac or Lisa Eldridge’s lipstick in the glorious Velvet Cinnabar shade.
This distinctive aquamarine coloured stone has been used since 33000-1900BC and was famously loved by Queen Cleopatra to create her iconic blue eyeshadow. The stone was ground down to make the finest and most expensive of all blue pigments. This precious stone was also held in high spiritual regard by the royal ancient Egyptians, believed to open up the third eye chakra and create a bridge to the spirit world. Ancient make-up often held a deeper meaning, empowering the wearer both internally and externally.
Embody Queen Cleo herself with Cozzette’s pigment-rich shadow in Lapis and channel your inner Egyptian Queen.
A full and shapely brow has always been a symbol of wealth, and the Egyptians created an ingenious way to fill out theirs using burnt almonds. After burning, they would use the point of the almond to create super strong dark and angular brows. My favourite brow product to replace your trusty almonds is the micro-stroke Anastasia Beverly Hills Brow Pen.
These unfortunate desert creatures had their crystalline wings plucked to add sparkle to the eyes of the Egyptians, who would crush and grind the wings to create an iridescent glitter. The little guys do have the most stunning holographic colour, however to recreate that special two-tone look I prefer to leave the bugs alone and use the Karla Cosmetics Multi Chrome Eyeshadow in the dreamy shade, Birdsong.
I hope you enjoyed this little time capsule as much as I did! Kisses, Lilli x
