| 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
toe nail polish, eye and facial makeup, permanent waves, colored contact
lenses, 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. Many manufacturers distinguish
between decorative cosmetics and care cosmetics.
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 category. |
