From Being Linked With Sex Work To Turning Into An Everyday Practice, Here’s The History Of Makeup

Needless to mention, makeup has become an essential element of our lives. From basic things like a liner and kohl to tricky products like contour and airbrushes, different makeup products have become an integral factor of our routine because they are available everywhere and we see almost everyone using them.

However, did you know that makeup once became illegal because of sex workers?

That’s correct! The cosmetics that we wear on our faces now might seem like a normal thing, but back in time, it was illegal and considered ‘bad’ to use for ‘honorable women’. While the times have changed now, makeup products went through a tumultuous period in the past.

In China, during 3000 BC, individuals adorned their fingernails with a combination of substances such as gum arabic, gelatine, beeswax and egg white. The gold, silver, black and red shades signified one’s social status and commoners were prohibited from adorning their nails with vibrant colors. 

However, as time changed, people across genders started adorning their nails with different colors and flaunt them.

Nothing screams boldness and sexiness more than the iconic red lipstick. From bright red hues to subtle maroon shades, these lipsticks are a mix of sensuality and fierceness. Interestingly, it was the sex workers who made them so famous.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, red lipstick was associated with women actors and courtesans, and was considered scandalous or provocative. However, it became notable when sex workers started using the shade during the 20th century.

Interestingly, a law was enacted that imposed penalties on sex workers for not wearing red lipstick, as it was believed that they were distinguishing them from other women to conceal their true profession.

The Red Light Secrets: Museum Of Prostitution Amsterdam features a detailed recreation of a room like a licensed brothel. Amongst several other things like condoms and lubes, one can see red lipstick imprints on the bedsheet as a mark of boldness in bed. 

Earlier, rouge or blushes were used alongside face powder to achieve a paler complexion and showcase a high social status. However, over time, rouge started to be associated with sex workers. Later, it made a comeback in the 20th century and became extremely popular amongst women. The blush’s sensual yet bright undertones transcend its historical association with sex work.

Even though the blush dates back centuries, in current times, it has become more than just a cosmetic product and has an essential place in the ever-evolving beauty industry.

In the past, bold and extravagant things like eyeliner and eye makeup were often associated with women from certain social backgrounds. After being linked to negative connotations and careers like sex work, several parents used to remove makeup from their daughters’ faces, back in that time.

In the 1910s and 1920s, there was a technique called lash beading, which gave similar effects like mascara. In this technique, beads were applied to an individual’s lashes, to get fuller, darker and longer lashes. This technique was associated with sex workers. On the other hand, ‘respectable’ women used to wear minimal makeup. Thus, the application of makeup on the eyes was considered unconventional in those times because it was mainly used by women, who in the eyes of the world, were to be respected less. 

However, now the times are changing. Makeup is now used as a form of expression for individuals and has become a means to define their unique identities.

In 2020, Heaux Cosmetics launched a line of makeup specifically tailored for sex workers, known as “sex-proof makeup”. This innovative makeup range is formulated to provide extended wear, ensuring it remains intact for extended periods.

The collection boasts a diverse selection of approximately 25 products, featuring items such as long-lasting lipstick, smudge-resistant eyeliner and crease-free eyeshadow. Notably, these products are also fragrance-free.

In Amsterdam, Netherlands, prostitution is legal in the De Wallen area, also called the red-light district. The area has legal window brothels, sex clubs and escort agencies, and are considered a form of entertainment. Needless to mention, surrounded by the neon-lit red-light district, this street is quite famous for its nightlife, and trust me, the road offers more than just sex. 

When I was planning to go to this street, I was a little skeptical because of pre-conceived notions that I now realise were biased. However, when went I to this vibrant place, I noticed that most of the sex workers, standing in the windows, sported brilliant makeup on their faces and looked absolutely savage along with their entire bold attire. From sleek eyeliners and bold lips to heavy blushers, they proudly showcased their makeup and it felt nothing but empowering. Interestingly, ever since the district was built around 1385, it has been known for the women inhabiting its streets.

There are several iconic makeup products that have become extremely famous in the recent past – be it foundation, concealers or mascaras. Even though it’s still considered a little controversial and bold to wear makeup in some areas across the world, it’s interesting how people, especially sex workers, are breaking barriers and wearing makeup with utter pride and confidence like they always have been.

From being illegal and not considered right for ‘gentle’ women to now being used across the world in almost every household, makeup has come a long way and is still as legendary and badass as it always has been.