The Meaning of “Cosmetics”

What does "cosmetics" mean?

To me, cosmetics means art. It can have a different meaning to everyone. To some people it means motivation, to others it means enhancements of their best features, and to others it could mean a security blanket; but I'm sure we can all agree that in general, cosmetics could mean beauty products and even an everyday need, like lipstick, eyeliner, eye shadows and lotions.

In the dictionary, a cosmetic is a substance or preparation that is applied on the hair, skin, eyes and nails. Used for beautifying, preserving, altering, cleansing and improving the appearance of the area that it is applied to.

Chemically, cosmetics are a mixture of ingredients, which most of the time include: water, colors, fragrances, moisturizers or preservatives. The process of making these typically requires mathematical knowledge, product knowledge, and sometimes even chemistry knowledge.

Cosmetics have been around for thousands of years, their popularity has always walked hand in hand with society. They were used by many ancient civilizations for beauty, skin improvement and altering appearance. The ingredients might not all be the same as the ones used today, but cosmetics have been part of human life throughout history.

Cosmetics are compounds used to change our appearance, self maintenance product or a fragrance. They enhance the satisfaction of that luscious red on your lips, the magical contour on your cheeks, and the beautifully aligned wings on your eyes; there are only but a few examples of the magic that cosmetics can create. Metaphorically speaking, cosmetics mean creation, but realistically, cosmetics mean a product applied to the body to restore and improve the person's appearance. Essentially, cosmetics are the magic, your brush is the wand, and your mirror is the screen to the canvas. We invite you to take a look at the cosmetics collections that we have to offer!

Author: Luis Guillen

Photography: Lily Guillen

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