History of Waterproof Mascara

Waterproof mascara originally caused an allergic reaction in many women.

Waterproof mascara hit cosmetic counters in 1938 but it all ended in tears; its chemical content and unpleasant smell made it unbearable for users. It became more user-friendly in the 1960s and has since become an indispensable beauty product.

Formula

According to the Fashion Magazine website, the first waterproof mascara formulated in 1938 contained a blend of 50-percent turpentine. Unsurprisingly, the mascara had a nasty smell and caused skin allergies.

Improvements

Until the 1950s, mascaras had a petroleum base. Synthetic formulas replaced them in the 1950s and 1960, which led to the development of more eye-friendly waterproof mascaras. A safe, waterproof tube-dispensed mascara became available in the early 1960s. Women could apply the mascara without eye irritation, enabling them to imitate the model Twiggy's uber lashes.

Function

Waterproof mascara gave woman the freedom to cry or walk in the rain without smudging their mascara and losing their lovely long eyelashes.

References

• Fashion Magazine: Technology: The History of Mascara