Blog divain.

Discover the benefits of aloe vera for your hair
Jan 28, 2025Lucía Poyo Vallina
Is aloe vera good for your hair? Characteristics and how to use it

Thanks to its versatility and its characteristics, aloe vera is one of the most sought-after plants in the world of medicine and cosmetics. Its healing qualities offer endless benefits, both for skin care and for the body. In this DIVAIN article we explain to you what the qualities of aloe vera for your hair are, how you should apply it and if it really is as good as they say. What is aloe vera? Aloe vera is a medicinal plant with long and spiny leaves with antiviral and healing properties, characterized mainly by its benefits for health and beauty. It contains a gel inside, known as "aloe", that is rich in minerals, vitamins, amino acids and fatty acids that helps treat skin problems, wounds, burns, etc ... Since ancient times this plant was used by Greeks, Romans and Egyptians, both to treat health problems and for personal care. Today, it is one of the most used ingredients for the manufacture of beauty products in the world of cosmetics. Benefits and qualities of aloe vera for your hair Aloe vera is mostly used for the skin, but also for certain hair treatments, as it helps to hydrate, strengthen and improve hair health. Here we will give a detailed explanation of all the benefits and properties of aloe vera for your hair. Deep cleaning This is the reason why many cosmetic manufacturers choose to use aloe vera as the main ingredient in the formulas of their shampoos and hair products. Thanks to its composition, it penetrates the scalp easily dragging impurities and fat that is accumulated in the follicles, to the outside. Shiny and soft Aloe vera is a plant that contains minerals, vitamins and amino acids that help nourish and revitalize damaged hair, giving it a much shinier and softer appearance. A conditioner with aloe vera gel will allow you to shine with hair that is full of vitality and strength. Rejuvenates hair Aloe Vera provides elasticity and rejuvenates hair. This is why aloe vera is perfect for curly hair, as it helps define your curls well and keep them hydrated and soft. Less hair loss Another one of the qualities of aloe vera is that it repairs dead skin cells on the scalp and promotes blood circulation in the follicles. In this way it prevents its fall and helps it to grow healthy and strong. Anticaspa An aloe vera hair mask will not only remove dandruff, it will help prevent it. In addition, it will also help prevent an itchy scalp. Relaxing Thanks to its anesthetizing qualities, you will feel like you’re in a state of complete tranquility after washing your hair with any product that contains aloe vera. The anthraquinones in aloe vera help eliminate muscle tension in your head. We recommend that if you want to enjoy this effect, give your hair a gentle massage with the shampoo or conditioner that contains this ingredient. How to apply pure aloe vera on my hair Of course, you can buy any product on the market for hair that contains aloe vera in its formula, but we recommend that if you want to take full advantage of the benefits of aloe vera, apply a mask of pure aloe vera on your hair. Here are 3 ideas: Honey mask: take a couple of aloe vera leaves and extract the inner gel of its leaves. Put them in the blender along with a teaspoon of honey. Apply the mixture on your hair (from the scalp to the ends) and leave it on for 20-30 minutes. Then remove with water and enjoy soft, strong and shiny hair. Ideal for very dry hair with split ends. Coconut oil mask: Another option to make your hair look healthy is to mix the pulp of aloe vera with coconut oil. Mix 4 tablespoons of aloe with 3 tablespoons of oil until you get a homogeneous mass. You can apply it once a week or every 15 days depending on the needs of your hair. Anti-hair loss mask: finally, if you want to make an end to hair loss, we recommend that you mix the following ingredients: 4 tablespoons of aloe vera with a beaten egg or with 1 tablespoon of castor oil. And remember, aloe vera is a plant that does not require much care, so you can plant it without any problems, in your garden or on your balcony. All the benefits you will get for your health will be totally worth it!

Jan 28, 2025Lucía Poyo Vallina

Is aloe vera good for your hair? Characteristics and how to use it

Thanks to its versatility and its characteristics, aloe vera is one of the most sought-after plants in the world of medicine and cosmetics. Its healing qualities offer endless benefits, both for skin care and for the body. In this DIVAIN article we explain to you what the qualities of aloe vera for your hair are, how you should apply it and if it really is as good as they say. What is aloe vera? Aloe vera is a medicinal plant with long and spiny leaves with antiviral and healing properties, characterized mainly by its benefits for health and beauty. It contains a gel inside, known as "aloe", that is rich in minerals, vitamins, amino acids and fatty acids that helps treat skin problems, wounds, burns, etc ... Since ancient times this plant was used by Greeks, Romans and Egyptians, both to treat health problems and for personal care. Today, it is one of the most used ingredients for the manufacture of beauty products in the world of cosmetics. Benefits and qualities of aloe vera for your hair Aloe vera is mostly used for the skin, but also for certain hair treatments, as it helps to hydrate, strengthen and improve hair health. Here we will give a detailed explanation of all the benefits and properties of aloe vera for your hair. Deep cleaning This is the reason why many cosmetic manufacturers choose to use aloe vera as the main ingredient in the formulas of their shampoos and hair products. Thanks to its composition, it penetrates the scalp easily dragging impurities and fat that is accumulated in the follicles, to the outside. Shiny and soft Aloe vera is a plant that contains minerals, vitamins and amino acids that help nourish and revitalize damaged hair, giving it a much shinier and softer appearance. A conditioner with aloe vera gel will allow you to shine with hair that is full of vitality and strength. Rejuvenates hair Aloe Vera provides elasticity and rejuvenates hair. This is why aloe vera is perfect for curly hair, as it helps define your curls well and keep them hydrated and soft. Less hair loss Another one of the qualities of aloe vera is that it repairs dead skin cells on the scalp and promotes blood circulation in the follicles. In this way it prevents its fall and helps it to grow healthy and strong. Anticaspa An aloe vera hair mask will not only remove dandruff, it will help prevent it. In addition, it will also help prevent an itchy scalp. Relaxing Thanks to its anesthetizing qualities, you will feel like you’re in a state of complete tranquility after washing your hair with any product that contains aloe vera. The anthraquinones in aloe vera help eliminate muscle tension in your head. We recommend that if you want to enjoy this effect, give your hair a gentle massage with the shampoo or conditioner that contains this ingredient. How to apply pure aloe vera on my hair Of course, you can buy any product on the market for hair that contains aloe vera in its formula, but we recommend that if you want to take full advantage of the benefits of aloe vera, apply a mask of pure aloe vera on your hair. Here are 3 ideas: Honey mask: take a couple of aloe vera leaves and extract the inner gel of its leaves. Put them in the blender along with a teaspoon of honey. Apply the mixture on your hair (from the scalp to the ends) and leave it on for 20-30 minutes. Then remove with water and enjoy soft, strong and shiny hair. Ideal for very dry hair with split ends. Coconut oil mask: Another option to make your hair look healthy is to mix the pulp of aloe vera with coconut oil. Mix 4 tablespoons of aloe with 3 tablespoons of oil until you get a homogeneous mass. You can apply it once a week or every 15 days depending on the needs of your hair. Anti-hair loss mask: finally, if you want to make an end to hair loss, we recommend that you mix the following ingredients: 4 tablespoons of aloe vera with a beaten egg or with 1 tablespoon of castor oil. And remember, aloe vera is a plant that does not require much care, so you can plant it without any problems, in your garden or on your balcony. All the benefits you will get for your health will be totally worth it!

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Tricks to apply the dark circles concealer and how to choose it
Jan 28, 2025Lucía Poyo Vallina
Tricks to apply dark circles concealer well

Dark circles concealer is one of the most used cosmetics to camouflage the imperfections of the face. Not only does it hide dark circles, it also helps cover acne, blemishes and redness. However, to make good use of this beauty product it is necessary to choose the one that best suits your skin and to know how to apply it. Here below we leave you a few tricks on how to apply the concealer of dark circles so that you learn how to use this makeup essential correctly. How to choose dark circles concealer First of all, you should choose the concealer that best matches your skin tone. According to experts, it is recommended that you choose a concealer medium tone below your skin tone. If you go too light, this can cause the famous “panda eyes” effect to appear. If the dark circles are not very visible, the best tone is natural beige, although sometimes using only your makeup base can be enough to cover them. On the other hand, if they are more pronounced, we recommend that you apply a salmon tone before the corrector. There are multi-color concealers that have other uses in addition to covering dark circles. The green ones are perfect for rosacea or pimples, while the yellow and orange are ideal for covering veins, bluish dark circles, bruises or freckles. If you want to cover scars or dark spots, it is best to choose a salmon-colored concealer. In addition to the tone, it is important that when choosing your concealer for dark circles you look at its coverage. The more visible your dark circles are, the higher the coverage of your concealer should be. Also, make sure the texture is light so it doesn't get damaged or cracked over time. How to apply dark circles concealer Dark circles concealer is one of the beauty essentials to erase the signs of fatigue from the eyes and hide other skin imperfections. Therefore, here we leave you some tricks to apply dark circles concealer properly and get the most out of it. Take note! Hydration: Especially if you are going to use it for the eye contour, it is important that before its application you deeply hydrate the area so that it is more elastic and avoid cracking or wrinkles being marked. Order: According to professionals in the world of cosmetics there is no order to apply the concealer. So you can use it before or after your makeup foundation. Although it is recommended not to apply foundation around the eye so as not to overload this area. By the way! Do not forget that here you will find the best Low Cost makeup foundation. Quantity: It is important that you do not abuse the concealer of dark circles when you put on makeup. We recommend that you apply a small amount and later add more if necessary. Where to apply it: just above the darkest area of ​​the eye cup. Although there are correctors that can be used to hide other imperfections such as spots, pimples or redness. How to apply it: You can use the tip of your finger to apply it with small touches or choose to blend it with a brush or sponge. The important thing is that it ends up camouflaging well with your skin tone. Extend the duration: We recommend that after using the concealer for dark circles, use a little translucent lifting-effect powder to provide luminosity and prolong its duration. Errors to avoid when using concealer Many times mistakes are made when using the concealer of dark circles that can spoil the makeup and make the signs of aging or fine lines stand out even more. Be attentive to these most common mistakes to avoid them the next time you apply this "must" of cosmetics for women. Don't spread the concealer to cover dark circles because the area around the eyes is quite delicate. As we have said before, it is best to apply it with small taps for a perfect finish. If you are going to apply the concealer in other areas that are not dark circles, such as a pimple, it is best to apply only one point on the inflamed area and another on the pimple. Another of the most common mistakes is choosing the wrong color. If you choose a tone that is too light, you will create the so-called “raccoon effect” or “panda eyes”. In addition. If you choose a very dark tone, you will only make the dark circles stand out even more. Do not abuse the product.If you apply too much, this can make wrinkles or fine lines become more marked, since the area around the eyes, being thinner, absorbs less. If you see that the dark circles are still visible, you can apply one more coat when at least 10 minutes have passed since the first. Do not hydrate. The first thing you should do is apply your usual moisturizer so that the skin is supple and the concealer does not crack. Take a look at our post about the best face creams with hyaluronic acid and discover its incredible benefits for the skin. Dark circles concealer is an ally of beauty that if you do not know how to use it well, it can become your worst enemy. But do not panic, because with these tips and tricks that we have given you, you will know how to get the most out of this basic makeup;)

Jan 28, 2025Lucía Poyo Vallina

Tricks to apply dark circles concealer well

Dark circles concealer is one of the most used cosmetics to camouflage the imperfections of the face. Not only does it hide dark circles, it also helps cover acne, blemishes and redness. However, to make good use of this beauty product it is necessary to choose the one that best suits your skin and to know how to apply it. Here below we leave you a few tricks on how to apply the concealer of dark circles so that you learn how to use this makeup essential correctly. How to choose dark circles concealer First of all, you should choose the concealer that best matches your skin tone. According to experts, it is recommended that you choose a concealer medium tone below your skin tone. If you go too light, this can cause the famous “panda eyes” effect to appear. If the dark circles are not very visible, the best tone is natural beige, although sometimes using only your makeup base can be enough to cover them. On the other hand, if they are more pronounced, we recommend that you apply a salmon tone before the corrector. There are multi-color concealers that have other uses in addition to covering dark circles. The green ones are perfect for rosacea or pimples, while the yellow and orange are ideal for covering veins, bluish dark circles, bruises or freckles. If you want to cover scars or dark spots, it is best to choose a salmon-colored concealer. In addition to the tone, it is important that when choosing your concealer for dark circles you look at its coverage. The more visible your dark circles are, the higher the coverage of your concealer should be. Also, make sure the texture is light so it doesn't get damaged or cracked over time. How to apply dark circles concealer Dark circles concealer is one of the beauty essentials to erase the signs of fatigue from the eyes and hide other skin imperfections. Therefore, here we leave you some tricks to apply dark circles concealer properly and get the most out of it. Take note! Hydration: Especially if you are going to use it for the eye contour, it is important that before its application you deeply hydrate the area so that it is more elastic and avoid cracking or wrinkles being marked. Order: According to professionals in the world of cosmetics there is no order to apply the concealer. So you can use it before or after your makeup foundation. Although it is recommended not to apply foundation around the eye so as not to overload this area. By the way! Do not forget that here you will find the best Low Cost makeup foundation. Quantity: It is important that you do not abuse the concealer of dark circles when you put on makeup. We recommend that you apply a small amount and later add more if necessary. Where to apply it: just above the darkest area of ​​the eye cup. Although there are correctors that can be used to hide other imperfections such as spots, pimples or redness. How to apply it: You can use the tip of your finger to apply it with small touches or choose to blend it with a brush or sponge. The important thing is that it ends up camouflaging well with your skin tone. Extend the duration: We recommend that after using the concealer for dark circles, use a little translucent lifting-effect powder to provide luminosity and prolong its duration. Errors to avoid when using concealer Many times mistakes are made when using the concealer of dark circles that can spoil the makeup and make the signs of aging or fine lines stand out even more. Be attentive to these most common mistakes to avoid them the next time you apply this "must" of cosmetics for women. Don't spread the concealer to cover dark circles because the area around the eyes is quite delicate. As we have said before, it is best to apply it with small taps for a perfect finish. If you are going to apply the concealer in other areas that are not dark circles, such as a pimple, it is best to apply only one point on the inflamed area and another on the pimple. Another of the most common mistakes is choosing the wrong color. If you choose a tone that is too light, you will create the so-called “raccoon effect” or “panda eyes”. In addition. If you choose a very dark tone, you will only make the dark circles stand out even more. Do not abuse the product.If you apply too much, this can make wrinkles or fine lines become more marked, since the area around the eyes, being thinner, absorbs less. If you see that the dark circles are still visible, you can apply one more coat when at least 10 minutes have passed since the first. Do not hydrate. The first thing you should do is apply your usual moisturizer so that the skin is supple and the concealer does not crack. Take a look at our post about the best face creams with hyaluronic acid and discover its incredible benefits for the skin. Dark circles concealer is an ally of beauty that if you do not know how to use it well, it can become your worst enemy. But do not panic, because with these tips and tricks that we have given you, you will know how to get the most out of this basic makeup;)

Read more
The importance of hydration in skin care
Jan 28, 2025Lidia Mucientes
The importance of hydration in skin care

Taking care of our skin is essential to keep it healthy and radiant. One of the most important aspects of skincare is hydration. In this article, we will explain why it is crucial to keep your skin well-hydrated, both facially and bodily, and give you some tips on how to choose the right products to achieve this.

Jan 28, 2025Lidia Mucientes

The importance of hydration in skin care

Taking care of our skin is essential to keep it healthy and radiant. One of the most important aspects of skincare is hydration. In this article, we will explain why it is crucial to keep your skin well-hydrated, both facially and bodily, and give you some tips on how to choose the right products to achieve this.

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Makeup
Jan 21, 2025Milagros Oria Prieto
The fascinating journey of makeup throughout history

Makeup has been a loyal companion to humanity, evolving over time and adapting to the cultural, religious, and social currents of each era. From ancient rituals to the latest digital trends, the history of makeup reflects the evolution of beauty and identity across the centuries. We invite you to embark on a journey through the different stages of makeup history, exploring how it has evolved and impacted people's lives over time. We highlight a series of influential women from each era: The Egyptian pharaoh Cleopatra. The Iraqi priestess Enheduanna. The Roman empress Livia Drusilla. The French philosopher Christine de Pizan. The Italian businesswoman Isabella de' Medici. The German painter Anna Rosina de Gasc. The British scientists Mary Anning and Mary Buckland. The French artist Josephine Baker. The Spanish revolutionary Clara Campoamor. The American journalist Oprah Winfrey. The American model Kim Kardashian. Makeup in ancient civilizations Ancient Egypt: rituals and symbolism of makeup along the Nile Ancient Egypt is one of the earliest places where makeup acquired deep significance. It was not only used for beautification but also as a spiritual tool and protection. This ritual was not merely an aesthetic practice but was also laden with religious and social meaning. Both men and women used cosmetics; their skin was smeared with perfumed oils, and their eyes were lined with kohl, a mixture of minerals like galena. For the Egyptians, kohl had spiritual connotations and was believed to provide divine protection against the "evil eye." They also used natural pigments to color their lips and cheeks, with tones obtained from minerals like iron oxide. Mesopotamia and Persia: early innovations and their impact Makeup was a widespread practice among both men and women, with a focus on beauty and protection. In Mesopotamia, fine mineral powders were used to adorn the face, and kohl was applied to the eyes to enhance the gaze and as an amulet. Women also used perfumed oils and ointments to care for their skin and hair, reflecting a strong interest in hygiene and personal appearance. In Persia, makeup played a similar role, with an emphasis on elegance and social status. Persians used facial powders to smooth the skin and natural dyes to highlight lips and cheeks. Both empires shared a belief in the power of makeup to attract beauty and repel negative influences. Greece and Rome: aesthetics and health in ancient beauty Makeup was a symbol of status and refinement. Roman women, in particular, were famous for their elaborate beauty rituals, including facial masks made from honey and natural oils. However, makeup also had its detractors, and in certain periods of Roman history, its excessive use was frowned upon by moralists. Nevertheless, the makeup techniques of these civilizations laid the groundwork for what was to come in later centuries. Transformations in the middle ages and the Renaissance The darkness of the middle ages: rejection and resurgence of makeup During the Middle Ages, makeup fell out of favor in much of Europe, associated with vanity and sin. The Catholic Church disapproved of its use, linking it to lust and deception. Despite these restrictions, noblewomen continued to use powders to lighten their skin, a sign of status and purity at that time. They used flour powders and other minerals to whiten their faces, despite the health risks. Blush and lipstick were used sparingly, made from plants like saffron and alkanet root. Eye makeup was less common due to its association with vanity. However, in some regions, women darkened their eyebrows and eyelashes with charcoal or soot. Renaissance: the rebirth of beauty and cosmetic excess In the Renaissance, makeup experienced a resurgence, reflecting the growing interest in beauty, art, and fashion. Pale skin remained an ideal associated with purity and high social status. To achieve this, women used white lead powders, despite their toxicity. A subtle blush was applied to the cheeks, made from natural pigments like carmine, to give a healthy appearance. Lips were highlighted with soft shades of red or pink, while eyebrow care was essential; many women plucked their eyebrows completely or thinned them drastically, then drew them to achieve an ideal shape. The use of perfumes and aromatic oils was also popular, not only to beautify but to mask odors. Makeup in this era combined art with sophistication, seeking a balance between natural beauty and elegance. The 18th and 19th centuries: from aristocracy to the industrial revolution Rococo and excessive beauty: influence of the french nobility In the 18th century, under the influence of the French court, makeup became a true obsession. Women (and some men) wore heavy layers of white powder and exaggerated rouge. Makeup was a public statement, especially with the use of strategically placed beauty marks on the face to highlight flirtation and conceal imperfections. Eyebrows were thinned and darkened to give more expression to the gaze. This elaborate makeup, along with exuberant hairstyles, reflected the opulence and playful spirit of the time. The Victorian era: morality, modesty, and the struggle against makeup The Victorian era brought a drastic change. Queen Victoria openly disapproved of makeup, seeing it as a vulgar tool of the lower classes. Despite this, social pressure to maintain a neat and healthy appearance meant that makeup continued to be used, albeit more subtly and privately. Blush was used very sparingly, utilizing homemade remedies or discreet products made from beets or rose petals, and only to give a touch of healthy color. The emphasis was on the appearance of purity and virtue, so makeup was minimalist. However, cosmetic care and beauty products were common, but always applied in a way that seemed natural and effortless. The 20th century: the age of makeup innovation 1920-1940: Flappers and Hollywood Glamour The 20th century saw the birth of modern makeup as we know it today. The makeup of flappers in the 1920s broke with traditional norms, reflecting a new era of freedom and boldness. These young, modern women adopted a daring style with intensely red lips, smoky eyes, and thin, arched eyebrows. The use of dark lipstick and black eyeliner became iconic, creating a dramatic and seductive look that defied traditional norms. This style was greatly influenced by Hollywood cinema, which began to popularize cosmetics on an unprecedented scale. The glamour of Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s took makeup to new heights, popularizing the image of movie stars as symbols of sophistication and elegance. Perfect skin, well-defined red lips, and long, curled lashes became the beauty standard. This style, inspired by screen divas, greatly influenced makeup trends, making glamour an aspirational ideal for many women. 1950-1970: the explosion of color and women's liberation In the 1960s and 1970s, makeup experienced an explosion of color, reflecting the spirit of change and women's liberation. These decades saw women breaking away from traditional molds, adopting bold and creative styles that expressed their individuality and freedom. Eyes became the main focus, with vibrant eyeshadows in shades like blue, green, and purple, combined with thick eyeliner and false lashes that accentuated the gaze. Lips also filled with color, from nude tones to the most intense reds and pinks. The pop culture and fashion of the time, influenced by movements like mod and hippie, encouraged unprecedented experimentation with makeup. This era marked a moment when women began to use makeup not only to enhance their beauty but also as a form of self-expression and empowerment. 1980-2000: the era of extravagance and globalization From 1980 to the present, makeup has become a symbol of creativity and cultural diversity. The 1980s were characterized by maximalism, with intense and contrasting colors, bright eyeshadows, bold lips, and strong contours. This decade embraced excess, reflecting a spirit of boldness and self-expression. With globalization, makeup trends began to blend and spread rapidly through mass media, creating a melting pot of styles. From natural looks to more elaborate ones, everyone can find inspiration from any corner of the world. The influence of social media and influencers has democratized access to products and techniques, making makeup a tool for empowerment and a platform for diversity and inclusion, where each individual defines their own beauty. 21st century trends: makeup in the digital era 2000-2020: from natural to experimental, makeup on social media The 21st century has witnessed the digital revolution, which has transformed how we consume and relate to makeup. Social media, in particular, has played a crucial role in popularizing new trends. From the contouring popularized by Kim Kardashian to the natural beauty looks promoted by influencers, makeup has become greatly democratized and diversified. Today, makeup has become a form of artistic and personal expression, reflecting each person's diversity and individuality. With the evolution of trends and the inclusion of innovative technologies, such as long-lasting products and high-quality formulas, makeup offers a wider range of options to suit all styles and preferences. From elegant minimalism to the most daring and colorful creations, today's makeup celebrates creative freedom and authenticity. Moreover, the growing awareness of sustainability and ethics in production has led to an increase in the use of cruelty-free and eco-friendly products. In short, modern makeup not only enhances outer beauty but also empowers people to feel confident and authentic in their own skin.

Jan 21, 2025Milagros Oria Prieto

The fascinating journey of makeup throughout history

Makeup has been a loyal companion to humanity, evolving over time and adapting to the cultural, religious, and social currents of each era. From ancient rituals to the latest digital trends, the history of makeup reflects the evolution of beauty and identity across the centuries. We invite you to embark on a journey through the different stages of makeup history, exploring how it has evolved and impacted people's lives over time. We highlight a series of influential women from each era: The Egyptian pharaoh Cleopatra. The Iraqi priestess Enheduanna. The Roman empress Livia Drusilla. The French philosopher Christine de Pizan. The Italian businesswoman Isabella de' Medici. The German painter Anna Rosina de Gasc. The British scientists Mary Anning and Mary Buckland. The French artist Josephine Baker. The Spanish revolutionary Clara Campoamor. The American journalist Oprah Winfrey. The American model Kim Kardashian. Makeup in ancient civilizations Ancient Egypt: rituals and symbolism of makeup along the Nile Ancient Egypt is one of the earliest places where makeup acquired deep significance. It was not only used for beautification but also as a spiritual tool and protection. This ritual was not merely an aesthetic practice but was also laden with religious and social meaning. Both men and women used cosmetics; their skin was smeared with perfumed oils, and their eyes were lined with kohl, a mixture of minerals like galena. For the Egyptians, kohl had spiritual connotations and was believed to provide divine protection against the "evil eye." They also used natural pigments to color their lips and cheeks, with tones obtained from minerals like iron oxide. Mesopotamia and Persia: early innovations and their impact Makeup was a widespread practice among both men and women, with a focus on beauty and protection. In Mesopotamia, fine mineral powders were used to adorn the face, and kohl was applied to the eyes to enhance the gaze and as an amulet. Women also used perfumed oils and ointments to care for their skin and hair, reflecting a strong interest in hygiene and personal appearance. In Persia, makeup played a similar role, with an emphasis on elegance and social status. Persians used facial powders to smooth the skin and natural dyes to highlight lips and cheeks. Both empires shared a belief in the power of makeup to attract beauty and repel negative influences. Greece and Rome: aesthetics and health in ancient beauty Makeup was a symbol of status and refinement. Roman women, in particular, were famous for their elaborate beauty rituals, including facial masks made from honey and natural oils. However, makeup also had its detractors, and in certain periods of Roman history, its excessive use was frowned upon by moralists. Nevertheless, the makeup techniques of these civilizations laid the groundwork for what was to come in later centuries. Transformations in the middle ages and the Renaissance The darkness of the middle ages: rejection and resurgence of makeup During the Middle Ages, makeup fell out of favor in much of Europe, associated with vanity and sin. The Catholic Church disapproved of its use, linking it to lust and deception. Despite these restrictions, noblewomen continued to use powders to lighten their skin, a sign of status and purity at that time. They used flour powders and other minerals to whiten their faces, despite the health risks. Blush and lipstick were used sparingly, made from plants like saffron and alkanet root. Eye makeup was less common due to its association with vanity. However, in some regions, women darkened their eyebrows and eyelashes with charcoal or soot. Renaissance: the rebirth of beauty and cosmetic excess In the Renaissance, makeup experienced a resurgence, reflecting the growing interest in beauty, art, and fashion. Pale skin remained an ideal associated with purity and high social status. To achieve this, women used white lead powders, despite their toxicity. A subtle blush was applied to the cheeks, made from natural pigments like carmine, to give a healthy appearance. Lips were highlighted with soft shades of red or pink, while eyebrow care was essential; many women plucked their eyebrows completely or thinned them drastically, then drew them to achieve an ideal shape. The use of perfumes and aromatic oils was also popular, not only to beautify but to mask odors. Makeup in this era combined art with sophistication, seeking a balance between natural beauty and elegance. The 18th and 19th centuries: from aristocracy to the industrial revolution Rococo and excessive beauty: influence of the french nobility In the 18th century, under the influence of the French court, makeup became a true obsession. Women (and some men) wore heavy layers of white powder and exaggerated rouge. Makeup was a public statement, especially with the use of strategically placed beauty marks on the face to highlight flirtation and conceal imperfections. Eyebrows were thinned and darkened to give more expression to the gaze. This elaborate makeup, along with exuberant hairstyles, reflected the opulence and playful spirit of the time. The Victorian era: morality, modesty, and the struggle against makeup The Victorian era brought a drastic change. Queen Victoria openly disapproved of makeup, seeing it as a vulgar tool of the lower classes. Despite this, social pressure to maintain a neat and healthy appearance meant that makeup continued to be used, albeit more subtly and privately. Blush was used very sparingly, utilizing homemade remedies or discreet products made from beets or rose petals, and only to give a touch of healthy color. The emphasis was on the appearance of purity and virtue, so makeup was minimalist. However, cosmetic care and beauty products were common, but always applied in a way that seemed natural and effortless. The 20th century: the age of makeup innovation 1920-1940: Flappers and Hollywood Glamour The 20th century saw the birth of modern makeup as we know it today. The makeup of flappers in the 1920s broke with traditional norms, reflecting a new era of freedom and boldness. These young, modern women adopted a daring style with intensely red lips, smoky eyes, and thin, arched eyebrows. The use of dark lipstick and black eyeliner became iconic, creating a dramatic and seductive look that defied traditional norms. This style was greatly influenced by Hollywood cinema, which began to popularize cosmetics on an unprecedented scale. The glamour of Hollywood in the 1930s and 1940s took makeup to new heights, popularizing the image of movie stars as symbols of sophistication and elegance. Perfect skin, well-defined red lips, and long, curled lashes became the beauty standard. This style, inspired by screen divas, greatly influenced makeup trends, making glamour an aspirational ideal for many women. 1950-1970: the explosion of color and women's liberation In the 1960s and 1970s, makeup experienced an explosion of color, reflecting the spirit of change and women's liberation. These decades saw women breaking away from traditional molds, adopting bold and creative styles that expressed their individuality and freedom. Eyes became the main focus, with vibrant eyeshadows in shades like blue, green, and purple, combined with thick eyeliner and false lashes that accentuated the gaze. Lips also filled with color, from nude tones to the most intense reds and pinks. The pop culture and fashion of the time, influenced by movements like mod and hippie, encouraged unprecedented experimentation with makeup. This era marked a moment when women began to use makeup not only to enhance their beauty but also as a form of self-expression and empowerment. 1980-2000: the era of extravagance and globalization From 1980 to the present, makeup has become a symbol of creativity and cultural diversity. The 1980s were characterized by maximalism, with intense and contrasting colors, bright eyeshadows, bold lips, and strong contours. This decade embraced excess, reflecting a spirit of boldness and self-expression. With globalization, makeup trends began to blend and spread rapidly through mass media, creating a melting pot of styles. From natural looks to more elaborate ones, everyone can find inspiration from any corner of the world. The influence of social media and influencers has democratized access to products and techniques, making makeup a tool for empowerment and a platform for diversity and inclusion, where each individual defines their own beauty. 21st century trends: makeup in the digital era 2000-2020: from natural to experimental, makeup on social media The 21st century has witnessed the digital revolution, which has transformed how we consume and relate to makeup. Social media, in particular, has played a crucial role in popularizing new trends. From the contouring popularized by Kim Kardashian to the natural beauty looks promoted by influencers, makeup has become greatly democratized and diversified. Today, makeup has become a form of artistic and personal expression, reflecting each person's diversity and individuality. With the evolution of trends and the inclusion of innovative technologies, such as long-lasting products and high-quality formulas, makeup offers a wider range of options to suit all styles and preferences. From elegant minimalism to the most daring and colorful creations, today's makeup celebrates creative freedom and authenticity. Moreover, the growing awareness of sustainability and ethics in production has led to an increase in the use of cruelty-free and eco-friendly products. In short, modern makeup not only enhances outer beauty but also empowers people to feel confident and authentic in their own skin.

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