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Cosmetics () are substances used to enhance or protect the appearance or odor of the human body. Cosmetics include skin-care creams, lotions, powders, perfumes, lipsticks, fingernail and toenail polishes, eye and facial makeup, permanent waves, hair colors, hair sprays and gels, deodorants, baby products, bath oils, bubble baths, bath salts, butters and many other types of products. Their use is widespread, especially among women in Western countries. A subset of cosmetics is called "make-up," which refers primarily to colored products intended to alter the user’s appearance. The manufacture of cosmetics is currently dominated by a small number of multinational corporations that originated in the early 20th century, but the distribution and sale of cosmetics is spread among a wide range of different businesses. The U.S. FDA which regulates cosmetics in the United States defines cosmetics as: "intended to be applied to the human body for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance without affecting the body's structure or functions." This broad definition includes, as well, any material intended for use as a component of a cosmetic product. The FDA specifically excludes Soap from this particular category.Lewis, Carol. FDA. "Clearing up Cosmetic Confusion." 2000. May 14, 2007. {Link without Title}


HISTORY

painting of a woman applying cosmetics to her face]]

See Also: History of cosmetics



The first archaeological evidence of cosmetics usage is found in describes various beauty treatments.

In the western world, the advent of cosmetics was in the middle ages, although typically restricted to use within the upper classes.

Cosmetic use was frowned upon at some points in history. For example, in the 1800s , make-up was used primarily by Prostitutes , and Queen Victoria publicly declared makeup improper, vulgar, and acceptable for use by actors, only. Adolf Hitler told women that face painting was for clowns and not for the women of the Master Race.

By the middle of the 20th Century , cosmetics were in widespread use in nearly all societies around the world.


INDUSTRY TODAY

The worldwide annual expenditures for cosmetics is estimated at U.S. $18 billion.1 Of the major firms, the oldest and the largest is L'Oréal , which was founded by Eugene Schueller in 1909 as the French Harmless Hair Colouring Company (now owned by Liliane Bettencourt 27.5% and Nestlé 26.4%, with the remaining 46.1% are publicly traded). The market was developed in the USA during the 1910s by Elizabeth Arden , Helena Rubinstein , and Max Factor . These firms were joined by Revlon just before World War II and Estée Lauder just after.


CRITICISM AND CONTROVERSY

The popularity of cosmetics in the 20th century has increased rapidly. Especially in the United States, cosmetics are being used by girls at a younger and younger age. Many companies have catered to this expanding market by introducing more flavored lipsticks and glosses, cosmetics packaged in glittery, sparkly packaging and marketing and advertising using young Models . The social consequences of younger and younger beautification has had much attention in the media over the last few years.

Criticism of cosmetics has come from a variety of sources, including Feminist s, Animal Rights Activists , Books , and public interest groups. There is a growing awareness and preference for cosmetics that are without any toxic ingredients, especially those derived from Petroleum , SLS , and Paraben s.