Cosmetics facts for kids
Cosmetics are products people use to change how their body looks. You might also hear them called makeup. People use cosmetics for many reasons. Sometimes it's to feel more confident. Other times, it's for fun or to fit a certain style.
In many parts of the world, women are the main users of cosmetics. However, men also use them, especially for stage shows, television, or movies. Cosmetics are a big part of the world of acting. All cosmetics are temporary. This means they need to be put on again after some time. Common cosmetics include lipstick, powders like blush, eye shadow, and lotions.
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Types of Cosmetics
Most cosmetic products are made to improve how the face looks. There are two main groups. One group helps to improve your skin's basic health. The other group includes the makeup you see on the skin.
Skin Care and Preparation
These products help clean your skin and get it ready for makeup. They also help keep your skin healthy.
- Cleansers: These wash away makeup and dirt from your skin.
- Toners: These help remove extra oil from your skin. They can also make pores look smaller.
- Moisturizers: These make your skin soft. They also help keep water in your skin.
- Primers: These prepare your skin's surface. They help makeup go on smoothly and last longer.
- Concealers: These hide small skin flaws. They can also slightly change your skin's color.
- Foundation: This product creates an even skin tone. It covers small flaws and helps face powder stay in place.
Makeup Products
These are the cosmetics that people actually see on your face. They can also be used on other parts of the body.
- Rouge or blusher: This is a reddish powder. It is often used to make cheekbones stand out. It can also give a more youthful look. Ancient Egyptians used blush a long time ago.
- Face powder: This powder is applied with a puff, brush, or sponge. It comes in many shades to match different skin tones.
- Lipstick: This is used to add color and definition to the lips.
- Eye makeup: This includes products like mascara, eyeliner, and eye shadow. They are used to highlight the eyes.
- Hand care: This includes products for manicures and nail polish.
History of Cosmetics
The word cosmetics comes from the Greek word kosmētikos. This word means "skilled in ordering or arranging."
We know that people used cosmetics in ancient Egypt and Greece. Archaeologists have found proof of this. Here are some examples of early cosmetics:
- Castor oil: Ancient Egyptians used this as a protective balm.
- Skin creams: Romans made these from beeswax, olive oil, and rosewater.
- Vaseline and lanolin: These were used in the 1800s.
- Nivea Creme: This was one of the first stable skin creams. It was made in 1911.
The Ancient Greeks also used cosmetics. Cosmetics are even mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible.
Related Topics
Images for kids
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An actor applying bold makeup for a stage performance
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Eyeshadow being applied
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Broadway actor Jim Brochu applies makeup before the opening night of a play
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Cosmetics at department store Farmers Centre Place in Hamilton, New Zealand
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Cosmetics at Life Pharmacy at Westfield Albany on the North Shore of Auckland, New Zealand
See also
In Spanish: Cosmético para niños
