Cosmetic

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Cosmetic refers to substances or treatments applied to the body, especially the face, to improve its appearance. Cosmetics are typically used to enhance or alter the appearance of the face or body through the use of color, cleansing, moisturizing, and other techniques.

History[edit | edit source]

The use of cosmetics dates back to ancient times, with evidence of cosmetic use found in archaeological sites around the world. The ancient Egyptians, for example, used cosmetics for religious rituals as well as for aesthetic purposes. In the modern era, the cosmetic industry has grown into a multi-billion dollar global industry.

Types of Cosmetics[edit | edit source]

There are many different types of cosmetics, including:

  • Makeup: This includes products like foundation, mascara, lipstick, and eyeshadow that are used to enhance or change the appearance of the face.
  • Skin Care: These are products designed to improve the health and appearance of the skin. They include cleansers, moisturizers, and treatments for specific skin conditions.
  • Hair Care: These products are used to clean, condition, and style the hair. They include shampoos, conditioners, hair dyes, and styling products.
  • Fragrance: This category includes perfumes, colognes, and body sprays that are used to give the body a pleasant scent.
  • Nail Care: These products are used to care for and decorate the nails. They include nail polish, nail treatments, and tools for manicures and pedicures.

Safety and Regulation[edit | edit source]

In many countries, cosmetics are regulated to ensure their safety for use. In the United States, for example, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates cosmetics under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. The FDA does not require pre-market approval for cosmetics, but it does require that cosmetics be safe for use and properly labeled.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Cosmetic Resources
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