In today’s world, red lipstick is not just a beauty choice; it’s a symbol of confidence, individuality and boldness. Whether it’s a corporate meeting or a social event, many women proudly wear it to express their personality. But this simple cosmetic item once carried a dark, unfair image. It wasn’t always welcomed the way it is today.
Red lipstick has faced judgment, social rejection, and even dangerous misunderstandings in the past. Women were not just criticised for wearing it—they were shamed, labelled, and even divorced. The shade that now stands for freedom and self-expression once stood for rebellion and shame. Let’s explore how this dramatic shift happened and why it matters even today.
Women Were Once Divorced for Wearing Red Lipstick
Yes, you read that right. In earlier times, especially in Western countries, women who wore red lipstick were seen with suspicion. A strange belief was widespread: women wearing red lipstick had magical powers or were connected to evil forces. Some even believed these women could manipulate men emotionally, trapping them into love or marriage through the ‘power’ of the lipstick.
Because of such baseless ideas, many women were unfairly targeted. Some even faced divorce simply because they chose to wear red lipstick. This was not based on any real reason or fact—just age-old rumours and deep-rooted social bias.
Red Lipstick Once Meant You Were a Witch or Worse
In old Western societies, red lipstick was not just seen as seductive—it was considered dangerous. Many thought women who wore it had evil intentions. They were seen as witches or women involved in dark practices. These ideas were pushed by those who feared women who expressed themselves boldly.
In reality, the lipstick was just makeup, but society made it a symbol of fear. These myths created real harm. Women were judged, avoided, and even punished for using a basic cosmetic item.
A Painful Beginning: How Ancient Lipsticks Were Made
Today, applying lipstick is safe and easy. But thousands of years ago, the process was harmful and even dangerous. The first known lipstick makers were the ancient Sumerians, nearly 5000 years ago. Their lipstick was made by grinding gemstones and mixing them with natural oils or wax. This mixture gave colour, but the rough texture often caused cuts and bleeding on the lips.
Later in Egypt, women used crushed insects to make red colour for their lips. The colour came from a bug called cochineal. While the results were beautiful, the idea of using insects and facing painful side effects makes us realise how much women went through just to express beauty or individuality.
The Link Between Red Lipstick and Sex Work
In past centuries, red lipstick was often linked to prostitution. Women working in this field were expected to wear it as part of their job. This added more stigma to the lipstick. Ordinary women avoided red shades because society would quickly judge them or assume they were involved in such work.
Because of this social tagging, many women stayed away from red lipstick. It wasn’t about choice—it was about survival. No one wanted to be treated unfairly just for wearing a colour.
Queen Elizabeth I and the Fatal Obsession
Even royalty wasn’t safe from the risks of early makeup. Queen Elizabeth I of England loved red lipstick. But during her time, cosmetics were made with dangerous chemicals. One of the ingredients used in her lipstick was cinebar, a compound that contains mercury.
Cinebar gave the lipstick a rich, blood-red shade. The queen wore it almost daily. But over time, the mercury began to affect her health. Her skin turned pale, her memory weakened, and her body became frail. It is believed that this toxic ingredient may have contributed to her health decline. Though there’s no full proof, the story shows how harmful cosmetics could be in the past.
The Fight for Freedom Through a Lipstick Shade
As time moved forward, women started breaking free from these old thoughts. In the 20th century, red lipstick became a part of the women’s rights movement. During World War II, it was used as a symbol of strength. Female soldiers and nurses wore it proudly to show they were as strong and important as men.
In recent years, red lipstick has become a sign of empowerment. From celebrities to working professionals, women use it to show confidence. It’s no longer about attracting someone or pleasing society—it’s about being bold and unapologetically oneself.
Lipstick and Its Place in Indian Culture
In India, red lipstick was once also seen with raised eyebrows. It was often connected with ‘modern’ or ‘too bold’ behaviour. Many middle-class women were judged for using bright shades. Families would say, “What will people think?” or “She’s trying to show off.” This social pressure made many women stick to dull colours, even if they liked something brighter.
Thankfully, this mindset is slowly changing. With women leading in every field—from politics to entertainment—red lipstick has become part of their everyday style. It shows that Indian women are now proud to choose what suits them, without worrying about outdated social views.
A Silent Struggle Behind the Red Colour
The red lipstick in your makeup kit has seen centuries of resistance. It’s more than a colour—it’s a reminder of the silent battles women fought for basic freedom. A small cosmetic product once caused women to lose relationships, social respect and even health.
Today, it represents the exact opposite. It’s about choice, freedom, and strength. But history reminds us how far society has gone to control women’s expression—and how far women have come to reclaim it.
