As early as 3500 BC, humans began applying colored minerals and plant pigments to their cheeks and lips for cosmetic purposes. The practice originated with the Sumerians and was subsequently adopted by the Egyptians, Syrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. Mixtures of colored wood, plant matter, fruit pulp, and lard were stored in small vials and used to enhance the lips. In ancient my country, toxic cinnabar was used to stain lips red. Later developments included colored grease sticks-made from beef tallow, wax, and oils-wrapped in thin paper; the outer layer of paper was peeled away before each use. These products were colloquially known as "red sausages." Historical records indicate that by 1895, a red lipstick known as "Pomade en Baton," containing beef tallow and beeswax, existed in France. At that time, lipsticks were typically liquid or paste-like and packaged in small boxes; formulations often relied on carmine (derived from cochineal insects) or alkaline carmine solutions. The late 19th-century development of organic dyes, the introduction of eosin (tetrabromofluorescein) between 1915 and 1920, and the 1929 invention of the swivel-up lipstick tube marked the beginning of modern lipstick formulation and production.

With the evolution of cosmetics, lipstick shades, formulations, and functions have undergone significant changes. Lipstick shades have become increasingly trend-driven, closely aligned with shifts in women's hairstyles, nail polish colors, and fashion. In particular, the recent use of various pearlescent powders and treated pigments has diversified color palettes and improved texture, making application more comfortable. Consistent with broader trends in cosmetics, lipstick continues to prioritize aesthetic appeal while incorporating moisturizing, nourishing, and sun-protection functions. The popularity of clear lipsticks has led to their adoption by some men, and the 1990s saw the emergence of volatile, transfer-resistant formulas. Advances in formulation, raw materials, and manufacturing processes continue to drive the growth of the lipstick industry.