Cosmetics industry

Cosmetics industry refers to the industry that manufactures and distributes products that enhance or alter the appearance or fragrance of the body. Many of these products are designed for use on the face and hair. They include a wide range of products, such as lipstick, mascara, eye shadow, foundation, blush, highlighter, bronzer, primer, and several others.

The cosmetics industry is a subset of the larger beauty industry, which also includes services such as hair salons and spas. The global cosmetics industry is dominated by a small number of multinational corporations that originated in the early 20th century, but the rise of the internet has allowed for a proliferation of smaller, independent brands, often focused on niche markets.

History

The use of cosmetics dates back to ancient times, and the first records of cosmetics usage are found in Egypt around 3500 BC. The Ancient Egyptians used cosmetics not only for aesthetic purposes but also for health and protection against the hot sun.

In the 20th century, the popularity of cosmetics increased rapidly. Cosmetics are used by girls at increasingly young ages, especially in the Western world. The cosmetics industry exploded in the 21st century, also thanks to the influence of social media.

Market

The global cosmetics market was valued at $532.43 billion in 2017, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.14% from 2019 to 2025. The largest cosmetics market is in the United States, followed by Europe.

Regulation

The cosmetics industry is subject to extensive regulation, especially in the United States and Europe. In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates cosmetics under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FD&C Act) and the Fair Packaging and Labeling Act (FPLA).

Environmental Impact

The cosmetics industry has come under fire for its environmental impact, including its use of non-renewable resources, its impact on wildlife, and the environmental damage caused by its waste.

See Also

• Beauty industry
• Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• Ancient Egyptians