Indigenous (local) cosmetics - JSS1 Home Economics Lesson Note
This are naturally occurring local cosmetics. Some of them where used in he past to improve appearance. Some are still in use today. They include;
- Eye make-up “tiro” (Yoruba) or “tanjere” (Igbo): This can be grounded into powder. It is applied as eyeliner using a special thin stick reserved for the purpose.
- Cam wood powder “uhe” (Igbo) or “oshun” (Yoruba): This is a red wood which can be thoroughly ground into a fine powder. It can also be made into a paste by mixing the powder with little water and palm oil. It can be used on the face or entire body. It is said to have a smoothing effect on the skin.
- Body paint “uri” or “uli” (igbo): This is a special body paint made from the bark, seeds or roots of certain trees. It also has some medical effects.
- “lali” or”lalle” (Hausa): This is a special make-up from leaves of a special tree. The leaves are ground into paste and mixed with lemon or lime juice. It is commonly used by ladies in the Northern parts of Nigeria to paint their fingers and toe nails as the outline of the hands and feet.
- “Nsu” (Igbo) or “Efun” (Yoruba): This is a local chalk. It can be ground into powder and applied on the face and body.