Unearthing the Ancient Secret: The Mysterious Origins of the 4,000-Year-Old Lip Color from Iran
Feb 20
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An article in The Archeologist, March 2024, highlights a remarkable 4,000-year-old beauty lip color discovered in Iran, captivating historians, archaeologists, and beauty enthusiasts alike. This groundbreaking discovery was enabled by the 2001 flooding of the Halil River Valley. Unearthed from a stone vessel, this ancient artifact unveils a sophisticated landscape of cosmetic practices. The deep red mixture, abundant in minerals like hematite, manganite, and braunite, combined with vegetable-based ingredients, redefines our comprehension of beauty and self-care in ancient times.
The article in The Archeologist states:
The lipstick vial, crafted from chlorite stone, stands as a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of ancient artisans. Measuring approximately two inches tall by three-quarters of an inch wide, it bears the hallmarks of meticulous handiwork, a testament to the reverence accorded to beauty and adornment in ancient civilizations.
4,000-year-old Lip Color: Ingredients that Tell a Story
This ancient lip color primarily consists of hematite, manganite, and braunite—minerals renowned for their deep red colors. Each component has a story to tell.
Hematite
Hematite, an iron oxide mineral, has been cherished for its rich color for centuries. Used in both powders and cosmetics, hematite's presence in the lip color indicates that ancient Iranians were skilled at sourcing natural materials. For example, hematite paint was also used in cave paintings, suggesting a broad cultural appreciation for color.
Manganite and Braunite
Both manganite and braunite are manganese oxides that deepen the rich hue. Manganese is historically linked to various health benefits, indicating that ancient societies recognized both cosmetic and medicinal uses. In fact, manganese has been valued for its role in reducing inflammation and aiding healing, connecting physical appearance with overall health.
Vegetable-Based Ingredients
The use of vegetable-based components illustrates the ingenuity of these ancient cultures. Ingredients such as plant oils and extracts not only provided color but also added moisturizing properties. This dual functionality mirrors the modern emphasis on cosmetic products that promote skin health while enhancing beauty.
Reference:
Iran, in. “The Archaeologist.” The Archaeologist, 13 Mar. 2024, www.thearchaeologist.org/blog/4000-year-old-lipstick-found-in-iran-may-be-the-oldest-in-the-world. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.
King, Hobart M. “Hematite: A Primary Ore of Iron and a Pigment Mineral.” Geology.com, 2019, geology.com/minerals/hematite.shtml.
Goodson, Amy. “10 Evidence-Based Benefits of Manganese.” Healthline, 31 Aug. 2018, www.healthline.com/nutrition/manganese-benefits.
““Skin Benefits of Vegetable Glycerin in Cosmetics | Comprehensive Guide.”” Rawsource, 3 Feb. 2025, rawsource.com/what-are-the-skin-benefits-of-vegetable-glycerin-in-cosmetic-products/. Accessed 22 Apr. 2025.
