An ally of femininity and the favorite makeup product of French women, between 800 and 900 million lipsticks are sold worldwide every year, or 27 every second. It’s no surprise that lipstick is a symbol of vitality and endurance.
Vermilion, magenta, blue, and even plum, lipstick has adapted to the changing lifestyles of women. A marker of its time, each shade refers to a specific era and has a more or less erotic symbolism.
In turn an emblem of the high nobility, a scarlet mark of sin and a symbol of resistance to oppression, it has become an essential part of elegance and seduction.
Throughout history, men and women have sought to distinguish themselves and seduce others through makeup. Hindus, for example, used betel nut to darken their lips and teeth from very early on.
This product, which was long available for a few euros or dollars, has become a luxury item thanks to luxury brands such as Dior and Hermès, with Guerlain’s KissKiss Gold and Diamond model selling for up to $62,000.
From the royal court to Hollywood
Contrary to popular belief, the history of lipstick predates the Egyptians and dates back to the Sumerians.
Click here to read the entire article in Luxus Plus Magazine.
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