makeup in east asia Matte lips, smokey eyeshadow and bronzing have long dominated the Western makeup industry, but recent years have seen the emergence of Asian makeup and skincare in America. Products by companies popular in East Asia, such as Etude House and Shiseido, have become more prevalent in the United States, as seen by the increase in Asian brand stores and online shopping websites like Memebox. Although traces of Western influence can be found in modern styles, the fundamental beauty standards of China, Korea and Japan are deeply rooted in traditional aesthetic ideals. Korean wedding makeup consists of three colors: white, black, and red. White makeup is placed on one's face and neck; clear and fair skin was traditionally a trademark of wealthy, elite women. Charcoal is mixed with water to draw natural, black brows, accentuating dark hair and pupils, and red from safflower powder and oil is used ostensibly on the lips and cheeks. During weddings, three red circles, approximately two to three centimeters in diameter, are placed on both cheeks and on the center of the forehead to represent fortune and good luck. The hair is typically parted in the middle and braided down the back, then twisted into a simple bun; however, one's age and social status can affect the choice in hairstyle. Much like traditional makeup in Korea, makeup in the Chinese Tang dynasty consisted entirely of white, black and red hues. Eyebrows were thin and dark, and red powder was used extensively on the eyes, cheeks and lips. The red was applied to flair out from the corners of one's eyes like eyeshadow, but was also placed on the bottom of the eyes as well. Because small lips were a symbol of beauty, foundation covered the entirely of one's lips, and lipstick was drawn only on the center of the lips to make them appear smaller. Blush was applied from under the eyes and down to the lips, and a red print, made to resemble flower petals, was drawn on the center of the forehead between the eyes. Hair was placed in elaborate buns along with extravagant jewels and accessories; the higher the social status, the more elaborate the hair.
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fine arts
One of the most iconic looks in Japanese culture is the geisha makeup. The geishas — women who are trained extensively in traditional arts such as tea-making and dance — served predominantly as female entertainers to male audiences since their emergence in the 18th century.
