Beauty
Popular 1960s beauty products that everyone had in their medicine cabinet
Oh, yeah! I had these!
Elijah Chan
06.28.24

The 1960s were a decade of striking fashion statements, transformative makeup trends, and a cultural pivot toward personal expression.

This era was marked by iconic figures like Twiggy, Brigitte Bardot, and Jackie Kennedy.

These women collectively redefined beauty standards and inspired a wave of new beauty trends.

The beauty industry witnessed an explosion of innovative products and practices, laying the foundation for many of the routines and items we still cherish today.

YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier

Skincare became a crucial part of daily routines, with a variety of products gaining popularity.

Lux Soap stood out for its luxurious feel and endorsements from Hollywood stars.

This made it a must-have in many households. Noxzema Cleansing Cream, originally a sunburn remedy, became renowned for its cooling and deep cleansing properties, offering relief and rejuvenation.

Pond’s Angel Face Cleansing Lotion provided a gentle solution for removing makeup and impurities, while Dove Beauty Bar, introduced in 1957, offered a moisturizing alternative to harsh soaps, thanks to its cream-infused formula.

YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier

Avon Cleansing Creams were celebrated for their affordability and accessibility.

These creams contributed to Avon’s extensive skincare line that reached a wide audience.

Sea Breeze Astringent, with its strong medicinal scent, was effective in controlling oil and preventing acne, a common concern among beauty enthusiasts.

Clinique’s Clarifying Lotion, part of the brand’s three-step skincare system, was praised for exfoliating and improving skin texture, helping to maintain a clear complexion.

YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier

Moisturizers were equally important, with Pond’s Cold Cream leading the way as a dual-purpose makeup remover and moisturizer.

Nivea Cream, known for its thick and emollient formula, provided long-lasting moisture.

It was a staple in many beauty arsenals. Elizabeth Arden’s 8-Hour Cream was a versatile product used not only as a moisturizer but also as a skin protectant, addressing a variety of skin concerns.

Oil of Olay Beauty Fluid offered a lightweight, non-greasy option, providing hydration without a heavy residue.

YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier

Avon’s Rich Moisture Cream catered to all skin types, delivering deep hydration.

Lancome’s Nutrix, available since the 1930s, continued to be a go-to for sensitive and dry skin.

This highlighted its enduring popularity.

Revlon’s Eterna 27, an anti-aging moisturizer featuring Progenitin, was marketed heavily for its rejuvenating properties, appealing to those seeking youthful skin.

YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier

Makeup saw revolutionary changes with products like Max Factor Pancake Makeup.

This offered full coverage with a matte finish, known for its lasting power.

Revlon’s Touch and Glow provided a lightweight foundation with a natural finish, while Covergirl Clean Makeup introduced an easy-to-apply liquid formula.

Elizabeth Arden’s Flawless Finish Foundation offered buildable coverage, and Merle Norman’s Powder Base was celebrated for creating a smooth, even skin tone.

YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier

Setting makeup became a refined art with products like Coty Airspun Loose Face Powder.

This powder was known for its fine texture and floral scent, ensuring a flawless finish.

Yardley Loose Face Powder also gained popularity for its finely milled texture.

Eye makeup trends embraced boldness, with liquid eyeliners allowing for precise, striking lines.

Eyeshadow palettes featuring vibrant colors like blues, greens, and silvers became must-haves, while mascaras from brands like Maybelline and Helena Rubinstein offered dramatic, long lashes.

YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier

Blush and lipstick trends favored natural and bold looks.

Cream blushes in rosy pinks and corals provided a natural flush.

These shades complemented the bold lipstick choices of the era.

Red, pink, and coral lipsticks were the go-to shades, heavily influenced by Revlon’s Fire and Ice campaign, which celebrated glamorous red lips.

Perfumes like Chanel No. 5 remained timeless, while Estee Lauder’s Youth Dew revolutionized the industry as both a bath oil and a fragrance.

Diorissimo was known for its delicate lily-of-the-valley scent.

YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier
Source:
YouTube Screenshot - Laura Jane Atelier

Hair care also saw significant innovation.

Hairspray, particularly Aquanet, was essential for maintaining elaborate hairstyles.

Popular shampoos and conditioners from brands like Breck and Clairol Herbal Essences promised clean, shiny hair.

Weekly deep conditioning treatments using hot oil or mayonnaise were recommended to keep hair soft and shiny.

The 1960s, with its innovative beauty products and emphasis on personal expression, significantly influenced the diverse beauty landscape we see today.

This era’s legacy in fashion, makeup, and skincare continues to inspire and shape modern beauty trends.

Watch the full video below.

Please SHARE this with your friends and family.

Article Sources:
To learn more read our Editorial Standards.
Advertisement