According to many classic Chinese books, poems, paintings and antiques, fashion-conscious women would wear the nectars distilled from many kinds of flowers such as lily, lotus and chrysanthemum. Every morning they would apply a few drops of the nectars, which would keep them smelling good the whole day.

Sachet

It was also common for high-ranking families to invite friends over to appreciate some special kinds of incenses. This kind of party was just as popular as the karaoke parties of today.

Ancient Chinese also made frequent use of scented cosmetics. Lipsticks were very popular among fashionable women as far back as 1,000 years ago. Made of wax, the lipsticks were scented and during the Tang Dynasty (618-907　A.D.), up to 12 scents were used. Like the ones today, they were used to protect the delicate skin of the lips. Lipsticks were also used by these women as a token of love.If they met a　man they liked, they would present him　with handkerchiefs carrying their red lip prints.

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