Modern makeup was developed by ancient Chinese 1,000 years ago: research

A recent study has unveiled the origins of the cosmetics industry, tracing it back to ancient China over 1,000 years ago.

Archaeologists discovered that during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 BC), a wide range of makeup products was developed.

A study published in the journal 'Archaeological and Anthropological Sciences' revealed the widespread use of makeup products among both the wealthy and non-elite classes of the Tang Dynasty.

The study examined thousands of tombs in Xi'an, the dynasty's capital, and discovered that the Chinese not only invented but also refined cosmetic recipes.

One notable example is a moisturiser made from ruminant fat, or sheep's fat, with added oil from the cabbage family. The blend allowed for easier application on skin during northern China's harsh winters.

"This shows how the formulation of the moisturiser was optimised," the study noted.

Archaeologists also found evidence of coloured cosmetics, including organic remains in shell containers composed of vegetable oils, insect, and plant extracts. 

Another skincare product likely consisted of a mixture of tree resin and vegetable oil, the study said.

The research indicated that Tang Dynasty people used products similar to modern lipstick and blusher. 

“A piece of graphite ore was used as an eyebrow cosmetic and a mixture of cinnabar and animal glue was used as a lipstick or blusher."

However, some products also contained toxic minerals like mercury, according to research.

“The findings suggest that the cosmetics were diverse and made from a wide range of raw materials, including plants, animals and minerals, during the Tang dynasty in China."