Early Victorian Make up Ideals (1837 - 1860)

In the early years the victorians were not big fans of using cosmetics and instead used discreet methods in order to maintain 'natural beauty'. In an article found in Godey's Lady's book (1830-1898), the editor Sarah Josepha Hale shared some of her beauty tips with her readers, reporting that every night she applied brown paper soaked in vinegar to her temples. This remained on her face all night in order to keep the skin around the eyes and smooth any wrinkles that may appear. 

However another article found on cosmetics in The Penny Magazine (1838), reports a different view to cosmetics, suggesting to its readers that they should "impart a red colour to the cheeks" and "to whiten the others parts of the skin and neck".

(Fashions in MakeUp from ancient to modern times - Author: Richard Corson)

'the secret picture' (1843)
Sitter: Queen Victoria (age 24)
Artist: Franz Xaver Winterhalter

This portrait was painted for the eyes of her husband Albert  only as a present for his 24th birthday. The Queen was quoted as saying that the portrait was "‘my darling Albert’s favourite picture’. - quote from http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1220740/Victoria-beauty-queen-The-picture-gave-Albert.html