Which ingredient was commonly used in the Victorian age to add color to the face?

The ingredient commonly used in the Victorian age to add color to the face is pink and orange crushed geranium petals. During this period, cosmetic practices often leaned towards using natural materials that could provide color without the use of synthetic chemicals. Geranium petals were chosen because they could impart beautiful pink and orange hues, which aligned with the beauty standards of the time that favored a rosy complexion.

Using plant-based materials for cosmetics was not only more accessible to the general population but also aligned with the growing interest in natural beauty products. This trend reflected the Victorian value placed on purity and femininity, where a flushed appearance was often sought after to convey health and vitality.

In contrast, while crushed beetles could theoretically provide a red dye, they were less commonly used in facial cosmetics at the time compared to plant-based options. Berry juices and ground spices were also utilized, but the specific colors and aesthetic desired by Victorian women made crushed geranium petals a preferred choice for enhancing facial beauty.