The sales of cosmetics and makeup amass over $20 billion dollars in sales each year. Women have used cosmetics and makeup to adorn and improve their looks since ancient times but it was not until the early part of the 20th century that makeup was received well in the United States. After WWI makeup and cosmetics became popular since many women had disposable incomes from jobs that were normally held by men. With the popularity of movies and movie stars, the makeup and cosmetic industry took off and it shows no signs of slowing down any time soon. Makeup and cosmetics can help a woman look and feel better about herself and they are also just plain fun to use.

Look into any woman’s purse or bag and you will probably see at least a tube or two of lipstick or lip gloss. Behind each lipstick, powder and foundation is years of research and trade secrets. The United States has very strict laws governing the purity and ingredients that can be used in cosmetics that are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. For example coal tar can not be used in mascara in the United States, but may be used in other countries. Scientists at cosmetics companies spend many hours researching new formulas and their safety before your favorite makeup hits the shelves.

Basic Ingredients of Cosmetics and Makeup
One of the main ingredients in cosmetics and makeup is castor oil. Castor oil is considered non-comedogenic, in other words it does not clog your pores. It is then blended with other oils and pigments to create a wide variety of cosmetics. Manufacturers keep their cosmetic formulas closely guarded secrets, but there are some common ingredients used. Castor oil, talc, emollients and pigment are the basic ingredients for most cosmetics.

Max Factor’s pan cake makeup became popular in the 1940′s and used talc as its based as opposed to oil and is applied with a wet sponge. This gave women a lightweight foundation that could be used in layers to achieve the amount of coverage they desired. Liquid foundation became popular in the 1960′s and today both types come in a variety of formulas tailored to skin types and shades. Water based foundation helps to control oil and is popular with women who are prone to breakouts. Sunscreen has been added to help protect women’s skin from sun damage and many foundations contain anti-aging compounds. New mineral makeup formulas contain natural minerals as their base and are becoming more popular as women look for natural ingredients in their cosmetics.

Most foundations except mineral foundations are emulsions of water and oil based ingredients. These ingredients must be mixed thoroughly so that they do not separate or breakdown once they are packaged. Each manufacturer has their own specific method but the basic process is similar for all types of foundation.

Powder based cosmetics such as face powder, blush and eye shadow have a talc base and are mixed with pigments to achieve the rich colors that are available. Mica is used to give frosty eye shadow and blush its glittery appearance. Cream eye shadows are also available that have a castor oil base. Powder eye shadow and blush are mixed with talc, stabilizers and pigments and then set into their containers for marketing. Extra additives such as moisturizers, anti-aging and anti-caking ingredients are also added to most brands.

Lipstick is normally a castor oil based product. Emollients and pigment are added and blended to ensure that the lipstick remains stable. Lip gloss is lighter and thinner than lipstick and is also blended to create an emulsion. Lip powders are applied to the lips and then a clear lipstick or lip gloss is applied to set the powder and add shine. Lip stains are available that are very thin and actually stain your lips. You can then apply lip gloss for an extra bit of shine or leave your lips looking more natural and bare. Most lip products contain sunscreen and moisturizers.

Manufacturers have a wide variety of ingredients to choose from when creating makeup and cosmetics. There are hundreds of products for you to choose from tailored specifically for you skin type and skin tone. Some women have brands and products they swear by and will not use anything else, while other women are more adventurous and enjoy trying out new products and colors. Cosmetics and makeup are made under strict regulations and the manufacturing plants must meet strict codes for cleanliness. With the popularity of makeup and cosmetics, the industry is constantly developing new products for us to try and enjoy.