From bold brows to cut creases and contouring, no matter how minimal your daily makeup routine may be, it's more than likely that you employ techniques heavily influenced by the Drag community.
Indeed, while the peak popularity of makeup trends from 2014-2016—characterized by styles directly inspired by famous Drag Queens and shows like RuPaul's Drag Race—has waned, the methods we use, whether professionally or personally, are still deeply rooted in the Drag community. We owe them a great deal of gratitude and thanks!
Skeptical? Think Drag techniques aren't for you because you're not into heavy makeup? Not a fan of Drag. Stick around - you just might be surprised.
Please note: Some facts are related to just men in makeup as an origin and some are specifically Drag and I would like to note that in Drag - ANYONE can do Drag no matter your gender or sexual orientation. In this blog I just wanted to point out the connections between the makeup/beauty community and a daily routine for a sis female or male and the LGBTQIA+ and Drag community's influence on makeup/beauty.
Makeup was initially created for men. The earliest recorded mention of makeup dates back to Ancient Egyptian pharaohs between 3100-2907 BCE, who wore it to appear more intimidating and represent both male and female genders and/or become genderless like gods. Cosmetics are also referenced in the Old Testament of the Bible. It was not until around 6000 BCE that records of women specifically wearing makeup were found.
Overlining your lips slightly? That's a popular drag technique. The use of color to exaggerate the lip line for a fuller pout originated in the 1920s with Clara Bow, though some attribute it to Lucille Le Sueur in the 1930s. As Hollywood starlets adopted the style, the drag community has since embraced it to enhance femininity and create a more pronounced shape and it is used by almost every Drag performer.
Contouring one's face? This technique was employed in 16th-century theater during the Elizabethan Era, utilizing soot and white chalk to convey expressions and facial shapes to the audience. This method allowed the exclusively male actors to alter their appearance to resemble feminine features more closely, accentuating their lips and eyes to appear womanlier. It was a way for men to sculpt their faces to mimic female characters.
Revisiting ancient practices, it's noted that Pharaohs in 4000 BCE Egypt utilized natural fibers and resin to affix additional hairs, thereby extending their lashes to seem more formidable and attractive. It is believed that the earliest forms of lash extensions and false lashes were devised by men, for men, to enhance their allure.
The technique of 'Baking' in makeup involves applying thick layers of makeup and powder to areas of the face prone to sweating during performances, as well as layering makeup to sculpt the face into a new shape. This process starts with a wet layer of makeup, followed by packing on a substantial amount of powder with a puff, pressing it into the skin, and waiting for it to absorb all moisture. Once absorbed, the excess is brushed off with a fluffy brush, and colored powder products are applied on top. This method originates from Drag performers who need their makeup to remain matte and flawless for hours while dancing under bright lights, wearing tightly contoured outfits, and heavy wigs.
Drag and makeup are art forms; neither is wrong. Art, when it harms no one, is a beautiful manifestation of passion and a love for life. Neither judge on gender, sexual orientation or race. The beauty and makeup community alongside the Drag community are akin to siblings in existence. Considering the challenges the remarkable Drag community has faced and the richness they've brought to our world, it is only right that EVERYONE who reaps the benefits of their contributions in everyday life should offer them profound gratitude.
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