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This/That: Makeup Through the Ages: From War Paint to Beauty Industry


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This essay traces the history of makeup, showing how it was once used universally by men and women across various cultures for diverse purposes, including religious rituals and social status. Over centuries, cultural shifts, particularly the rise of certain religious and philosophical ideals, along with the Industrial Revolution and evolving notions of masculinity, led to makeup becoming primarily associated with femininity. However, recent trends, including the influence of K-pop, social media, and gender-fluid identities, demonstrate a resurgence of makeup use by all genders, signaling a potential return to its historically inclusive nature. The essay explores the complex interplay between beauty standards, gender roles, and societal changes throughout history.
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Study Hall HQBy C. Lege