What is a Cosmetic? Concept and Classification of Cosmetics

A cosmetic is a product used in personal hygiene or to improve appearance. Especially of the face. The functions vary according to their classification. Especially cosmetics can stand intended to clean, perfume, protect, modify, maintain and correct physical aspects.

In short. Cosmetics refer to beauty. Though, It remains applied to the face or other parts of the body to beautify, and also their use remains mainly intended for women. For example, Cosmetics remain sold in creams, solutions, suspensions, gels, emulsions in water and also oils etc.

Among those that stand out are skin care creams, hair products, and also hygiene products.

History of Cosmetics

When we talk about what a comic is. However, We should not ignore its history. Cosmetics has an ancient tradition. History reminds us of Cleopatra and Nefertiti as great experts in the art of beauty. Still, it was not until the seventeenth century that the term ” cosmetic ” appeared, which means “related to ornamentation.”

However, in the 16th century, it was earlier when the cosmetic boom arose in Italy, where the monks of the Basilica of Santa Maria Novella created the first laboratory where cosmetics and also medicines remained made.

Cosmetics Today

At present, the world of cosmetics has evolved a lot and also continues to advance at great speed thanks to the introduction of new technologies. Cosmetics no longer have to do only with aesthetics. The health of the skin is an issue that consumers increasingly take into account when choosing their cosmetics.

New trends force cosmetic laboratories to update their products to meet new beauty models and consumer needs and also blend in with contemporary lifestyles. The current consumer is committed to comprehensive beauty, which not only considers the physical aspect.

Today, beauty is holistic, external and also internal, which implies that brands and also products grow and that we have many different cosmetic products on the market. These products are committed to beauty and skin health than the sensoriality in their textures, the experience, the care of the environment than the social conscience. Hence, New products appear constantly, so many. That on many occasions we can find that we do not know what their purpose is.

Therefore, Products or preparations intended for the prevention, diagnosis and also treatment of diseases are not considered cosmetics. Nor those designed to be ingested, inhaled, injected or implanted.

Patch Test: If you’re trying a new cosmetic product, especially one you’ve never used before, it’s a good idea to do a patch test first. Apply a small quantity of the product to a small area of your skin (such as the inside of your wrist) and watch for any adverse responses over the next 24 hours.

Some Tips Remember To Use Cosmetics Safely

• Check Ingredients

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for applying, using, and removing cosmetic items. Skin problems might result from overuse of products or failure to follow instructions.

• Reputed Brands

Purchase cosmetics from reputable brands with a record of creating safe, high-quality goods. Examine the brand’s reputation and customer feedback.

• Be Wary of Expired Cosmetics

Using expired cosmetics might cause skin irritation and infections. Examine the expiration date and eliminate items that have passed their expiration date.

• Maintain Good Hygiene

Make sure your hands and any equipment or applicators you use are clean before applying cosmetics. It aids in the prevention of contamination and the spread of microorganisms.

• Patchy Skin or Irritation

If you notice any redness, itching, burning, or other negative responses after using a cosmetic product, stop using it immediately. If the symptoms persist, consult a doctor.

Classification of Cosmetic and Personal Hygiene Products

Cosmetics can remain classified according to many parameters such as their presentation. Active ingredients or function. Or their use.

For example, A widely used classification would be:

Cosmetic Products For Babies-Children

1.- Shampoos
2.- Conditioners
3.- Lotions
4.- Oils
5.- Creams
6.- Talc
7.- Other children’s products

Cosmetic Products For The Eye Area

1. Eyebrow pencil, eyes
2.- Eyeliner
3.- Eyeshadows
4.- Eye makeup remover
5.- Mascara for eyelashes
6.- Other products for the eye area

Cosmetic Products For The Skin

1.- Blushes
2.- Face Powders
3.- Makeup Base (Liquid, Creamy)
4.- Face Correctors
5.- Products for Legs and Body
6.- Face Creams
7.- Face Lotions
8.- Hand Creams AND Body
9.- Lotions For Hands And Body
10.- Powders For The Feet
11.- Face Masks
12.- Other cosmetic products for the skin

Products For Oral And Dental Hygiene

1.- Tubes of toothpaste (All Kinds)
2.- Mouthwash-Mouthwash
3.- Other oral hygiene products

Shaving Products

1.- Shaving foams or gels
2.- Aftershave balms
3.- Aftershave lotions
4.- Aftershave creams or gels
5.- Other shaving products

Depilatory Products

1.- Depilatory Waxes
2.- Depilatory Creams
3.- Depilatory Oils
4.- Depilatory Gel

Cosmetic Products For The Lips

1.- Lipsticks
2.- Lip Gloss
3.- Lip Protectors
4.- Lip Liners
5.- Other lip care products

Cosmetic Products For Grooming And Body Hygiene

1.- Soaps and bath gels
2.- Talc
3.- Bath oils
4.- Bath tablets
5.- Bath salts
6.- Bubbles and bath gels
7.- Shampoos
8.- Wet Clothes And Towels
9.- Other body hygiene products

Deodorant And Anti-Transpirant Products

1.- Deodorants
2.- Deodorants and Antiperspirants
3.- Other deodorizing and antiperspirant products

Hair Cosmetic Products

1.- Hair dyes
2.- Shampoos
3.- Hair sprays
4.- Hair illuminator
5.- Conditioners
6.- Hair masks
7.- Hair bleaching agents
8.- Lacquers
9.- Gels
10.- Mousse-Foams

Cosmetic Products For Nails

1.- Enamel Base
2.- Cuticle softener
3.- Nail creams
4.- Enamel
5.- Enamel remover
6.- Nail oil
7.- Nail glitter
8.- Other nail products

Conclusion

Cosmetic safety depends on ingredients, usage, and individual skin type. Many products are safe when used as directed and formulated by reputable brands. However, personal reactions can vary, and it’s advisable to seek medical advice if concerns arise, especially if you have a history of skin conditions or allergies.