Using a series of printouts and short videos, we dove into the history of the use and pitfalls of cosmetic use through the ages. The use of crushed gemstones was examined regarding their use as lip color, in both sexes. The use of Ceruse, type of white lead during the renaissance was discussed as to its toxic affects by lead poisoning. Queen Elizabeth the first was used as an example of overuse of white lead, leading to major skin disease and the need to use more to cover the abnormality, probably leading to her death. Ancient Egyptians extracted red dye from the Fucus-Algin to be used on the face and lips. Unfortunately, the dye contained iodine and bromide salts which were absorbed into the dermal blood vessels and produced toxicity. Other early cosmetic developments were noted (some still in use) such as kohl, castor oil, rose water and lanolin. We will examine over the next few weeks the chemistry and toxicology of some of the major chemicals, both natural and synthetic, found in the classes of cosmetics.