Cosmetic History and Makeup Studies Network

The Cosmetic History and Makeup Studies Network is an interdisciplinary and international research group that connects researchers working on the history and study of makeup and beauty culture across different societies and time periods.

Founded in 2021 by co-convenors, Lucy Jane Santos and Hillary Belzer the network acts as a point of contact for anyone with an academic interest in cosmetic history and beauty culture.

The network advocates and offers a platform for research that is both critical of beauty studies and recognises its nuanced history and continued potential as a tool for systematic change. Work that centres diverse voices and experiences in its exploration of beauty, that engages with the history of beauty techniques and cosmetics across multiple fields, and that applies innovative methodological approaches to the field is encouraged.

Our members consist of academics, independent scholars, postgraduates but we welcome anyone with a serious interest in understanding the role of cosmetics in history and contemporary culture.

If you would like to join this network please email cosmetichistorynetwork@gmail.com with details of your interest in the topic.