10 fun facts about mascara – check what you didn’t know!
We use it every day, therefore we should know everything about it. But is it true? Here are the most interesting facts about mascara that you might not know!
1. Mascara was invented by ancient Egyptians
The first attempts to paint eyelashes and highlight the look in a similar way it is done today took place in ancient Egypt. They used a mixture of soot, oil and egg white or a combination of water, honey and crocodile dung. It can be said that these are the prototypes of today’s mascaras.
2. The history of Maybelline
The first Maybelline mascara was invented at the beginning of the 19th century in Chicago. The story that accompanies the invention is today one of the most often told stories. According to it, a mixture of coal dust and petroleum jelly was created by T. L. Williams to help his sister win the heart of a beloved man. The name of the brand refers to the name of the girl (Maybel) and the main ingredient (Vaseline).
3. The most recognizable mascara in the world
The oldest mascara on the market is definitely Maybelline Great Lash Mascara. It originated in 1971 and it remains until today in almost unchanged form – with pink tube and a green cap. Apparently, for this reason, it is the most recognizable mascara in the world.
4. The first mascara to be waterproof and… flammable!
Generally, the first waterproof cosmetic was in fact mascara. Shortly after the mascaras were launched, the waterproof version appeared. It turned out to be a real hit that women fell in love with. Unfortunately, in over 50% it consisted of turpentine. Therefore, it was extremely flammable! Only a few years later, it was possible to find a safe replacement for this ingredients.
5. Why do women open their mouth when applying mascara?
It seems to be an unconditional reflex that many women have no influence on. Often we tend to wonder why we actually do it. The explanation is simple – it’s easier to stop blinking when the mouth is open, which results from a specific combination of muscles.
6. Mascara has a relatively short shelf life
Many women do not realize that mascaras have some expiration dates. It does not appear on the tube, because for all eyelash products it has been determined that it should be replaced every 3-6 months.
7. Mascara is far from being hygienic
There is a reason why mascara’s expiration date is that short. This is one of the least hygienic cosmetics or make-up. We use it almost every day and each time we use it, we collect a lot of dirt and bacteria. We don’t usually wash it after each use, so all these bacteria get into the tube, where they have perfect conditions for multiplication – warmth and moisture. That’s why the excessive use of one mascara can cause irritation, allergies and other undesirable effects.
8. Most mascaras contain mercury
Not many women realize that mascaras very often contain mercury – in harmless quantities. It’s a prohibited ingredient in all cosmetics except mascaras. The reason was, until recently, the lack of an alternative ingredient. The good news is that nowadays it’s possible to find a good mascara without mercury.
9. How much does the most expensive mascara cost?
The most expensive mascara is H. Couture Beauty Mascara, which costs as much as 14 million dollars. Where does the price come from? The packaging of this mascara is decorated with more than 2,500 diamonds.
10. The first coloured mascara was made by Revlon
Even though Maybelline and Rimmel are considered to be the leading brands on the market, Revlon introduced many solutions that are still used today. One of them is coloured mascara that appeared in 1960.
