Skin
In Ancient Greece, pale skin was a sign of prestige and beauty. It meant women (and men) didn’t have to work for long hours in the fields to support themselves. They were wealthy enough, and their skin was proof of it.
But not everyone was born with porcelain skin. So, to lighten it, women painted their faces with white lead, a toxic substance that sadly shortened their already short lives. If lead wasn’t available, they’d turn to chalk. It was only a last resort, as chalk wears off very quickly and easily.
This paint needed a smooth foundation. So, women slathered creams made with honey all over their faces to keep it moisturized. If they wanted a shinier, glowier look, they’d add a few drops of olive oil.
Makeup
Ancient Greek women, just like us, loved their cosmetics. But they were so expensive, only the rich could afford them! And when they put them on, they were hardly visible. The no-makeup makeup look was all the rage. Natural beauty (achieved with unnatural means) was the ideal.
Lips and cheeks were gently brightened with red-coloured pastes. Lipsticks were made with red iron oxide and ochre clays, or olive oil with beeswax. Olive oil was an essential ingredients of eyeshadows as well. It w