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Exploring the World of Cosmetics

Cosmetics are products that people use to enhance beauty, conceal flaws or otherwise alter their appearances. Cosmetics come in a variety of forms, such as powders, lotions, creams and polishes, and include eye shadows, lipsticks, foundation, eye and lip liners and nail polish.

The History of Cosmetics
Although we typically associate cosmetics with women, both men and women have used cosmetics throughout history. For example, people living in ancient times in the area that we now refer to as the Middle East used cosmetics, as did upper class people living in the Western world in medieval times. Archaeological evidence dating back to 4,000 B.C. suggests that Romans and Egyptians used cosmetics containing mercury and, often, lead.

By the time of World War II, nearly all classes of people in all societies used some form of cosmetics. Today, cosmetics constitute a multibillion-dollar industry, complete with big-name players and small, independent companies.

Safe Cosmetics
People often wonder about the safety of cosmetics. However, the Food and Drug Administration highly regulates the ingredients used in cosmetics produced in the U.S. Other countries also have regulatory agencies to control what substances can be used in cosmetics. Due to these tight controls, consumers can be confident that the cosmetics that they are buying are safe to use.

There are few known problems concerning the use of cosmetics. While there are people who have allergic reactions to some of the ingredients used in certain cosmetics, most people won't experience negative reactions if they use them properly.

Natural Cosmetics
In recent years, natural cosmetics have become a hot trend. In order for cosmetics to be considered natural cosmetics, they must meet the following criteria:

• be made from all-natural ingredients
• contain no genetically altered ingredients
• contain no petroleum-based or synthetic ingredients
• not be tested on animals.
  

Ideally, the packaging for natural cosmetics should be ecologically conscious.

Mineral Cosmetics
Mineral cosmetics are a subset of natural cosmetics that have become increasingly popular in recent years. Mineral cosmetics are comprised of naturally occurring minerals, such as titanium dioxide, mica powder, serecite and iron.

Here's a list of some of the benefits of mineral cosmetics:

• Look and feel natural.
• Won't harm sensitive skin types.
• Are long lasting.
• Contain no harmful ingredients.
• Are anti-inflammatory.
• Do not contain preservatives, because they don't contain moisture.
• Are a natural sunscreen.

Some people who are used to traditional cosmetics may find it difficult to apply mineral cosmetics at first. A salesperson at your makeup counter should be able to provide you with advice on applying mineral-based products.

Anti-Aging Cosmetics
Many women and men in today's society are looking for ways to curb the effects of aging on the skin. To meet this need, the cosmetic industry has formulated hundreds of anti-aging cosmetics. With so many products on the market, though, making a decision on which anti-aging cosmetics to buy can be overwhelming.

When purchasing anti-aging cosmetics, consider three things:

• Age: Although it's never too early to start using anti-aging cosmetics, you'll want to buy a product that targets your specific needs, which will change as you age. For example, a woman in her thirties may want to prevent wrinkles while one in her fifties may want to decrease the appearance of wrinkles.
  
  
• Cost: Different ingredients are used in different anti-aging products. How much money you are willing to spend will affect what anti-aging cosmetics you will want to buy.
  
  
• Skin Type: Some of the ingredients used in anti-aging cosmetics can be too harsh for sensitive skin. Be sure to talk to your dermatologist about which anti-aging cosmetics are best for you.