Cosmetics were first used in Ancient Rome for ritual purposes but went on to become part of daily life for women, the wealthy and the prostitutes in particular. Fashionable and highly expensive cosmetics were imported from Gaul, Germany, and China, where cosmetics enjoyed a co-location in popularity, which spawned cheaper knock-offs for the poorer women. Due to weather conditions and poor composition, make up had to be reapplied several times a day which meant many working-class women did not have the time to wear it or the slaves to constantly reapply it.

Perfume was also used to a great extent by the wealthy Ancient Roman women. As women who smelled good were perceived to be healthy, it was a common currency amongst the upper-class females. The stench of the cosmetics also stimulated the need for perfume to cover it up. A small quantity of men also used cosmetics, cross-dressers in particular, though generally it was perceived to be improper and effeminate. Though lead was known to be poisonous, it continued to be used.