How widely did women use make-up in ancient Rome and what evidence exists? In this pioneering study, the author draws on literary, non-literary, visual, and archaeological evidence to show the importance of cosmetics and perfumes for health, ideas of beauty, social status, as a demonstration of wealth and luxury, and as an expression of gender within the Roman Empire. Covering the 300 years from the writings of Ovid to the Price Edict of Diocletian in AD 301, the study acts as a survey of the perception and reality behind the use of cosmetics and perfumes under the Roman Empire.