While this time period spanned hundreds of years, finding sources for cosmetics is difficult. Before the invention of the printing press, all books had to be written by hand-- an arduous process! This meant that only a few things were written down, and even fewer have survived.

Beauty, health and cleanliness have been praised at all times and places (only the details of what is required for "beauty", "health" and "cleanliness" change). During some parts of this time period, bright white skin and bright red lips were popular, whereas at other times, a more natural look was "in". Unfortunately, the ingredient most used to achieve the pale white look was white lead-- not something you want to put on your face!

According to a 12th century text,

"the face ought to be adorned, [because] if its adornment is done beautifully, it embellishes even ugly women."¹

Notes:

¹ The Trotula, 12th-century manuscripts edited and translated by Monica H. Green, page 117

Image is late 14th century