Mascara is a staple in many beauty routines today, but have you ever wondered about its origins? The journey of mascara is as captivating as the product itself. From ancient civilizations to the sophisticated formulations we use now, mascara has undergone significant transformations. This blog post explores the history of mascara, highlighting its evolution and the ingredients that have made it both a beauty essential and, at times, a source of irritation for sensitive eyes.
Ancient Beginnings: Egypt and Mesopotamia
The earliest known use of mascara dates back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia around 4000 BC. In Egypt, both men and women used a substance called kohl to darken their eyelashes, eyebrows, and eyelids. Kohl was made from a blend of ingredients such as galena (a type of lead ore), malachite, and charcoal, mixed with animal fat or oil to create a paste. This concoction was believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the eyes from the harsh desert sun.
However, these early formulations were not without their drawbacks. Ingredients like lead and copper were common in ancient kohl and could cause significant eye irritation and even poisoning. Despite the risks, the allure of enhanced eyes and the belief in the protective properties of kohl kept it in widespread use.
Victorian Era: The Birth of Modern Mascara
Fast forward to the 19th century, and we see the birth of modern mascara. In 1834, Eugène Rimmel, a French perfumer working in London, created one of the first commercial mascaras. Rimmel's formula was a mix of petroleum jelly and coal dust, which was applied with a brush. This early mascara was more refined than ancient kohl, but the use of coal dust still posed risks for sensitive eyes, causing potential irritation and discomfort.
The word "rimmel" still means "mascara" in several languages today, a testament to Eugène Rimmel's impact on the beauty industry.
20th Century Innovations: From Cake Mascara to Wands
The early 20th century saw significant innovations in mascara formulations and packaging. In 1915, T.L. Williams, an American chemist, created a new form of mascara for his sister, Maybel. He combined coal dust and petroleum jelly, which became the first "cake mascara." This product was applied with a damp brush and was sold under the brand name Maybelline, a blend of his sister's name and Vaseline.
By the 1950s, mascara in tube and wand form was introduced, making application more convenient and hygienic. Helena Rubinstein was a pioneer in this area, creating a mascara that could be applied directly from the tube using a brush. This innovation set the stage for the modern mascaras we use today.
Ingredients: A Journey from Harsh to Hypoallergenic
The evolution of mascara ingredients has been significant. Early mascaras contained ingredients like coal dust, lead, and turpentine, which could be highly irritating to the eyes. These formulations often caused redness, itching, and more severe reactions for those with sensitive eyes.
Today, mascara formulations are designed to be safer and more comfortable. Modern mascaras use a variety of waxes (such as beeswax and carnauba wax), pigments (like iron oxides), and polymers that create a film around each lash, enhancing length and volume. Additionally, many mascaras now include conditioning agents to nourish lashes.
For those with sensitive eyes, hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-tested mascaras are available although these terms are not regulated and don’t mean much just on their own. These products in general should avoid common irritants and use gentle ingredients to minimise the risk of irritation. OKKIYO's Prioriteyes Mascara has been created by ophthalmologist Dr Jacqueline Beltz specifically for sensitive eyes, and tested by an independent ophthalmologist to ensure that it is well tolerated, offering high performance without the discomfort.
The Emergence of Tubing Mascara
A notable innovation in the mascara world is tubing mascara. Unlike traditional mascaras that paint the lashes with pigment, tubing mascaras use polymers that wrap around each lash, creating a tube-like encasement. This type of mascara is known for its smudge-proof, flake-free wear and easy removal with warm water. The appearance of a tubing mascara is a bit less dramatic, but many enjoy this for everyday.
Conclusion
From its ancient origins to the advanced formulations of today, mascara has undergone a remarkable transformation. What started as a blend of potentially harmful substances has evolved into a sophisticated cosmetic designed for beauty and safety. Modern mascaras cater to a wide range of needs, including those of individuals with sensitive eyes, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the benefits of enhanced lashes without discomfort.
As we continue to innovate and improve mascara formulations, the future looks bright for this essential beauty product. At OKKIYO, we are proud to contribute to this legacy with Prioriteyes mascara designed to offer high performance and gentle care for sensitive eyes. Whether you're looking for volume, length, or a natural look, there's a mascara out there for you, and the journey to finding the perfect one is all part of the fun.
Explore our collection today and remember you can have sensitive eyes and great make up!