Cosmetics

Cosmetics refers to substances used for improving as well as protecting the physical appearance, usually the face. ’Cosmetics’ is a broad term and includes products for skin-care, nail-care, body-care, make-up, beautifying agents, etc. Cosmetics are used for cleansing, moisturising, re-hydrating, soothing and beautifying skin. Some of the cosmetic products include creams, powders, perfumes, lotions, eye-liner, mascara, hair colours, etc. The usage of cosmetics dates back to nearly 4000 BC in Egypt. During the course of history, use of cosmetics was considered derogatory. However, by mid-twentieth century, cosmetic usage became common across almost all the societies.

Make-up is a section of cosmetics. There are several cosmetic products available for face, eyes, nails, toes and body. The product line-up of cosmetics for face includes powder, foundation, blusher, lipsticks and lip liners among other products. The nail polishes are used to paint nails on one’s hands and toes. One can find bronzers these days, which are used for imparting a sultry and sun-kissed look to the body. Some of the brands specialising in cosmetics include L'OrÈal, Mac, Maybelline, Avon, Max Factor, etc. Apart from cosmetic products, certain procedures like cosmetic surgery and cosmetic dentistry may enhance the physical appearances.