According to most experts in the field, cosmetics or makeup originated in the Middle East.  Documents from a number of early cultures mention the use of cosmetics frequently.

Wikipedia notes:  "The first archaeological evidence of cosmetics usage is found in Ancient Egypt around 4000 BC.  The Ancient Greeks and Romans also used cosmetics. The Romans and Ancient Egyptians, not realizing their dangerous properties, used cosmetics containing mercury and white lead.  Fragrances, particularly frankincense and myrrh are mentioned in the Judeo-Christian Bible: Exodus 30: 34, Gospel of Matthew 2:11. Ancient Egyptians had a wide extent of make-up utensils. One of them is kohl, which was used to outline the eyes. It is made up of lead, copper, burned almonds, soot, and other ingredients. It was believed that eye make-up could ward off evil spirits and improve the sight. Even the poor wore eye make-up in ancient Egypt."

When archeologists began opening ancient tombs in Egypt during the 19th century, makeup cosmetics were found in containers that allowed them to remain fragrant and usable thousands of years after being placed in a tomb.

It is well known that in the Roman Empire a pale complexion was very desirable, and "pastes" of natural materials such as honey or eggs were commonly used.  Minerals such as white lead or chalk were applied to enhance the look of paleness.

Makeup was used and applied by both men and women in ancient times.  Eye shadow and eyelash makeup was commonly used.  A variety of materials such as carbon, paints, and ointments were applied to give that certain desired appearance.

According to Wikipedia:  "In the Middle Ages, Renaissance and up until the Industrial Revolution, the lower classes had to work outside, in agricultural jobs. The typically light-colored European skin was darkened by exposure to the sun. The higher class a person was, the more leisure time he or she had to spend indoors, which kept the skin pale. Thus, the highest classed of European society, able to spend all of their time protected from the sun, frequently had the lightest-looking skin. As a result, European men and women often attempted to lighten their skin directly, or used white powder on their skin to look more aristocratic.  A variety of products were used, including white lead paint which, as if the toxic lead wasn't bad enough, notoriously also contained arsenic."

Women of the 17th century tended to generally reduce the amount of makeup used, then as time moved on they began to use heavier makeups.

From the late 1600s forward, makeup began to get heavier again, and the social art of communicating by use of facial "beauty patches" was developed by women of the time.

During the 18th century makeup became even heavier, resulting in more medical problems from use of makeups containing mercury, sulfer, and lead.  During this period the use of makeups containing very dangerous chemicals such as nightshade, belladonna, and arsenic was also common.

Commercially produced makeup began to appear during the 19th century, and cold cream use became common.  However, the use of makeup containing dangerous chemicals continued.

The cosmetic industry and medical profession began working together in the 20th century to produce cosmetics that were considered safe.  Cosmetic sales were an important part of the economy as women would not be without their makeup.

In America the event of two World Wars gave women greater independence, and their use of makeup and cosmetics of all types increased as they moved into much wider social circles.

Today the makeup and cosmetic industry offers a huge range of mineral makeup products for both men and women, and this industry is a significant contributor to the economy.