The origins of appearance enhancement date back to ancient civilizations, where beauty and physical appearance were highly valued and cultivated through various means.
- Ancient Egypt : Egyptians were among the first to practice elaborate beauty rituals. They used cosmetics like kohl to line eyes for both aesthetic and protective purposes against sun glare. Women especially had intricate makeup collections. Additionally, Egyptians performed reconstructive procedures after death during mummification to preserve the deceased's appearance for the afterlife
- Ancient India : Around 600 BCE, the Indian surgeon Sushruta pioneered surgical techniques such as rhinoplasty (nose reconstruction), skin grafts, and ear reconstruction. He is considered the father of plastic surgery, and his work influenced cosmetic practices for centuries
- Ancient Rome and Greece : Romans were obsessed with physical appearance and had accessible treatments for improving scars and other aesthetic concerns, even among lower classes. Both men and women used cosmetics, hair dyes, and teeth whitening products. Greeks and Romans also engaged in elaborate hairstyles and cosmetic use as part of their beauty culture
- Middle Ages to Renaissance : Cosmetic surgery declined during the Middle Ages due to religious condemnation but revived during the Renaissance when art and science celebrated human beauty again. Barber-surgeons performed reconstructive and cosmetic procedures alongside grooming services
- Evolutionary and Sociocultural Perspectives : Appearance enhancement is also understood through evolutionary psychology as a form of sexual selection, where individuals use cosmetics, clothing, and other enhancements to increase attractiveness and competitive ability in mating. For example, high-heeled shoes and corsets historically accentuated features preferred by potential mates, such as height and body shape, even at the cost of comfort
- Modern Era : Cosmetic surgery and non-surgical enhancements like dermal fillers and Botox have rapidly advanced since the early 20th century, especially after the World Wars, when reconstructive surgery gained prominence. The beauty industry today is a global, multi-billion-dollar enterprise with continuous innovation in safer and more effective treatments
In summary, appearance enhancement has deep historical roots spanning surgical, cosmetic, and cultural practices aimed at improving or preserving physical attractiveness across many civilizations and continues to evolve with advances in medical and cosmetic technology
