Cleopatra's nasty beauty secret

Cleopatra's Power Was Painted Red
Cleopatra wasn’t just a political powerhouse. She was a beauty icon whose image has lasted millennia. But the red that tinted her lips? It came from crushed insects. And it was no accident. In Ancient Egypt, cosmetics weren’t just vanity—they were status, power, protection, and even divine favor.

The Carmine Beetle: Crimson From Nature
The red pigment came from carmine beetles (also known as cochineal). These insects produce a potent red dye when crushed—a dye that would later become known as carmine. Cleopatra’s attendants would gather these beetles, dry them, and crush them into powder.

Carmine is still used today in some cosmetics, foods, and textiles. It goes by names like E120 or Natural Red 4. So Cleopatra's routine is more relatable (and still relevant) than you think.

Why Add Ant Eggs?
Historians believe ant eggs were used as a binding agent, helping the crushed pigment stick to the lips in the form of a smooth, paste-like cosmetic. It also may have added a unique sheen or texture. This combination of natural color + egg protein was the ancient equivalent of long-lasting lip gloss.

Makeup That Meant Something
In Ancient Egypt, red lips were a power move. They signified vitality, fertility, and were thought to channel divine power. Pharaohs and queens wore makeup as a way of communicating with the gods and asserting dominance.

So when Cleopatra layered on her beetle-and-egg blend, she wasn’t just getting dolled up. She was weaponizing beauty.

Modern Parallels: Bugs in Your Makeup Today?
Many people don’t realize that some modern beauty products still use carmine dye, harvested in similar ways. Even popular lipstick brands today may contain pigments derived from insects. Vegan alternatives are on the rise, but Cleopatra's legacy continues.

👋 Who's This Video For?
History lovers who want the real, gross, fascinating stuff they didn’t teach in school
Beauty fans curious about the roots of their rituals
Anyone into weird facts, bugs, and ancient culture
Claymation and animation fans
Followers of @thatclaydudetv and weird explainer YouTube

🌟 Credits
Written & Directed by: @thatclaydudetv
Smithsonian Magazine
The Vintage News
National Geographic
Ancient Egyptian Cosmetics Archives

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