Ancient Egyptian Beautification Practices: Production, Application, and Importance

• Main Author: Maupin, Taylor
• Published: Digital Commons @ East Tennessee State University 2021
• Subjects: Ancient Egypt; cosmetic production; kohl; cosmetics; Arts and Culture; History; Commercialization
• Online Access: https://dc.etsu.edu/asrf/2021/presentations/55

Ancient Egypt is renowned for its extensive use of beauty products, but the image of Ancient Egypt modern media presents to consumers today barely expresses the importance of these products and practices. This paper details the production, application process, and function of these products and describes their importance in relation to modern society. The four functions of cosmetics (Religion, Aesthetics, Status, Health) are used to examine why beauty rituals are important to the Egyptian society, and modern beauty trends are contrasted with those of Ancient Egypt. Culture and industry movements and their catalysts explain the connection between past and present beauty ideals and standards. Overall, this paper determines Ancient Egypt’s profound impact on the modern beauty culture.