Friday, December 18, 2009

Makeup History: Behind the Beauty of a Geisha

Makeup History: Behind the Beauty of a Geisha


The beautiful Geisha women are from the ‘Edo’ era dated to about 400 years ago in Japan. The name Geisha means a person who entertains or performs. They were trained from young girls and how to cater to the audience’s needs through their beauty, music, and talented dancing routines. Geisha’s were very educated so that when those from the west came, most could carry out a very intellectual conversation with them in English.

In becoming a Geisha, it takes five to six years and requires difficult training. Because of modern society amenities and changes, the number in those willing to become Geisha’s have decreased.

The process in becoming a Geisha, if accepted, would require a young girl to go through an apprenticeship that involves living with a head Geisha. During this time, the trainee must help with the chores of the house, learn customs and social skills, and take music and dance lessons. After about six months, the trainee Geisha is called a maiko girl, and accompanies a Geisha on her appointments in order to become acquainted with customers. At about age 20, the maiko must make the decision to become a full Geisha or not. If a girl wishes to marry she cannot become a Geisha.

Today in Japanese hotels and restaurants Geisha entertain at banquets and socialize with guests. The costs for the services of a Geisha vary depending on the number the food, beverages, and the entertainment. The role of the Geisha in Japanese society is a source of much curiosity for tourists. To tap into that curiosity, visitors can go to shops where they can dress in traditional Geisha Kimonos, have Geisha make up applied and then have a souvenir photo taken.

The traditional attire of Geisha women would consist of wooden shoes, kimonos, and the perfect makeup look. The colors they applied for makeup that they were highly known for was the white painted face, the slick black linings on their eyebrows and eyes, and the bold red lips. They occasionally had pink cheeks and eye shadows as well. If wanting to replicate their desired look, you may easily do so by using Mahya Cosmetics. The colors we have similar to those they use are: “Swan Lake” (for the white), “Gothic” (matte black), and “Moulin Rouge” (for the red lips).

Keep updated with our daily blog as we continue to post many interesting facts about makeup, beauty, and more. This is just one of our special editions for our Makeup History Collection. Send us what looks you have created with our products and get a chance to show your talent on our website.



1 comment:

Jessie said...

Most hostels have linen and pillows.

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