The Max Factor Museum is located at Highland & Hollywood Boulevard right next to Mel’s Diner, still dazzling with decadence, and pretty in pink since 1928. The building was designed by famed architect S. Charles Lee in Hollywood Regency / Art Deco style Aside from aiding in the transformation of Norma Jeane to Marilyn Monroe, Max Factor has made so many contributions to the world of beauty, with his innovative inventions and cutting edge cosmetics. Immigrating from Russia to Hollywood in 1904, the Factor family saw the opportunities in the growing film industry, and began offering made-to-order wigs, and theatrical cosmetics. In 1918, he developed “Color Harmony,” which was a range of face powders that allowed him to customize any color for any actress. He was also responsible for many of the distinguishable characteristics of many stars, such as Clara Bow’s heart shaped lips and Jean Harlow’s signature Platinum blonde. As Technicolor film developed, he then created his “pan-cake” series, as film stars were very unhappy with how they were looking in color, refusing to appear on screen. Pan-cake concealed all skin imperfections under a transparent matte finish. Lastly, Max Factor is responsible for coining the term “Make-up,” as if to make up, and create a new face. It took nine years to restore the Max Factor Building to its original splendor, with it’s rose-colored lobby of lavish marble, re-invented historical chandeliers, pastel hues, antique furniture, and trompe l’oeil, finished with faux 22 karat gold and silver leafing and gilt. (Source)
