The Surprising—and Significant—History of Red Lipstick (2024)

FAQs

The Surprising—and Significant—History of Red Lipstick? ›

Many historians acknowledge ancient Sumerians (in 3500 BC in southern Mesopotamia) for inventing it by crushing red rocks into a powder to tint lips red. Others credit the ancient Egyptian elites, who mixed crushed insects into a vibrant paste of red waxes for Cleopatra, among others.

Red lipstick dates back farther than most people can even imagine. The first known red lipsticks were made by crushing gemstones and wearing them on the lips in Mesopotamia over 5,000 years ago. Later, lipsticks would be made from red algae and fish scales.

After she died, red lipstick was made illegal once again.. England, and many American states, both before and after the revolution, condemned wearing lipstick. This was done on the basis that it tricked men into marrying women, and women could even be tried for witchcraft for such an offense.

In the early 1940s, famous makeup artist, and women's activist, Elizabeth Arden was approached to create a lipstick specifically designed for women in service. In 1941 “Montezuma Red” was created. It was a bright, vibrant red, and perfectly matched to the red piping and chevrons on women's military uniforms.

Some women would wear bold, red lipstick to draw more attention to their cause. The red shade was feminine, yet bold and daring. It became a symbol of strength at a time when a true woman was defined as a submissive wife and a mother who is only concerned with family and home. It was a decades-long fight.

Red lip color gained popularity internationally as women's rights movements spread worldwide. As red lipstick symbolized American suffrage, its sway traveled across the pond and then some. British suffragette leader Emmeline Pankhurst donned a red lip, which helped spread the symbolic action among her fellow activists.

Most women in North Korea are only allowed to wear a light lip colour on their lips, but never red.

Marilyn Monroe, 1952: This sex symbol is the picture of seduction with glossy crimson lips. Madonna, 1985: During her "Like a Virgin" phase, Madonna's shockingly red lips added an ironic twist to her naughty Catholic look. Selena, 1994: The Latina beauty amped up her white Grammys ensemble with bold red lips.

What is Cleopatra lipstick? ›

Cleopatra was said to have used a lipstick that was a red color that was obtained by crushing carmine beetles and ants. An interesting fact about ancient Egyptian lipstick—and makeup, in general, was that it was believed to have healing powers.

Red lipstick has long been associated with power, confidence and femininity. When it comes to Latina women, red lipstick holds a special significance as it represents their vibrant culture and bold personalities.

Scientists say they have found the world's oldest lipstick in southern Iran Researchers in Italy say a deep red lip-paste discovered there is 5,000 years old. It's made of vegetable oils and waxes, and was likely worn by social elites as a display of superior status.

Early history

Women in the ancient Indus Valley civilization have used rectangular pieces of ochre with beveled ends as lipstick. The Kama Sutra describes lip coloring made of red lac and beeswax and method it was used. Ancient Egyptians wore lipstick to show social status rather than gender.

Now lipstick is fashionable in all shades and textures and it is widely known through the art of colour theory that lipstick can not only make you look better by neutralising and complimenting your skin or eye tone but also make you feel better.

Lipstick draws attention to the lips and makes them stand out. Lips are considered a sensual part of the body, and highlighting them can make women more attractive to the opposite sex. Some women may wear lipstick to feel better about their appearance.

It was an accessory that symbolized power during the Suffragettes movement, and still does today. Red lipstick is a cosmetic staple for many women, whether it's a go-to personal confidence booster or an easy night out accessory.

The Suffragettes used the color red in their clothing and makeup to make a statement and express their desire for equal rights. Red lipstick became an important symbol of female empowerment and strength during this time, as it was seen as a way for women to reclaim their femininity in a male-dominated society.

As a Latina woman, what do you feel is the cultural significance of wearing red lipstick? BCR:Cultural icons have worn red lips to signify power, femininity and confidence for generations.

In ancient China, lipstick was originally used for religious ceremony but increasingly became used for its cosmetic purposes as time went on. In prehistoric times in ancient China, lipstick was more akin to a lip balm that was used by both women and men. They were sourced from animal blood, minerals, and plant juices.