History of CosmeticsThe first archaeological evidence of cosmetics usage is found in Ancient Egypt around 4000 BC. The Ancient Greeks and Romans also used cosmetics. The Romans and Ancient Egyptians used cosmetics containing poisonous mercury and often lead. The land of Palestine was influenced by cosmetics as recorded in the Old Testament—2 Kings 9:30 where Jezebel painted her eyes—approximately 840 BC. The Biblical book of Esther describes various beauty treatments as well.In the western world, the advent of cosmetics was in the middle ages, although typically restricted to use within the upper classes.Cosmetic use was frowned upon at some points in history. For example, in the 1800s, make-up was used primarily by prostitutes, and Queen Victoria publicly declared makeup improper, vulgar, and acceptable only for use by actors.  Adolf Hitler told women that face painting was for clowns and not for the women of the Master Race By the middle of the 20th century, cosmetics were in widespread use in nearly all societies around the world.Cosmetics have been in use for thousands of years. They also attached silk or leather with adhesive to cover a blemish. The absence of regulation of the manufacture and use of cosmetics has led to negative side effects, deformities, blindness, and even death through the ages. Examples of this were the prevalent use of ceruse, or white lead, to cover the face during the Renaissance, and blindness caused by the mascara Lash Lure during the early 1900s.Industry TodayThe worldwide annual expenditures for cosmetics is estimated at U.S. $18 billion.[3] Of the major firms, the oldest and the largest is L'Oréal, which was founded by Eugene Schueller in 1909 as the French Harmless Hair Colouring Company (now owned by Liliane Bettencourt 27.5% and Nestlé 26.4%, with the remaining 46.1% are publicly traded). The market was developed in the USA during the 1910s by Elizabeth Arden, Helena Rubinstein, and Max Factor. These firms were joined by Revlon just before World War II and Estée Lauder just after.Like most industry, cosmetic companies resist regulation by government agencies like the FDA, and have lobbied against this throughout the years.Criticism and controversyDuring the 20th century, the popularity of cosmetics increased rapidly. Especially in the United States, cosmetics are used by girls at an increasingly young age. Many companies have catered to this expanding market by introducing more flavored lipsticks and glosses, cosmetics packaged in glittery, sparkly packaging and marketing and advertising using young models. The social consequences of younger and younger beautification has had much attention in the media over the last few years.Criticism of cosmetics has come from a variety of sources, including feminists, animal rights activists, books, and public interest groups. There is a growing awareness and preference for cosmetics that are without any toxic ingredients, especially those derived from petroleum, SLS, and parabens.[4]Numerous published reports have raised concern over the safety of a few surfactants. SLS causes a number of skin issues including dermatitis.[5][6][7][8][9]Parabens can cause skin irritation and contact dermatitis in individuals with paraben allergies, a small percentage of the general population.[10] Animal experiments have shown that parabens have a weak estrogenic activity, acting as xenoestrogens.[11]Prolonged use of makeup has also been linked to thinning eyelashes[12]Synthetic fragrances are widely used in consumers products. Studies concluded from patch testing show synthetic fragrances are made of many ingredients which cause allergic reactions.[13]Makeup TypesLipstick, lip gloss, lip liner, lip plumper, lip balm, lip luster, lip conditioner and lip boosters.[1]Foundation, used to color the face and conceal flaws to produce an impression of health and youth. Usually a liquid, cream, powder or mousse.[1]Powder, or face illuminator used to set the foundation, giving a matte finish.Rouge, blush or blusher, cheek stain used to color the cheeks and emphasize the cheekbones. This comes in powder, cream and gel forms.[1]Bronzer, used to create a more tanned or sun-kissed look.[1]Mascara and lash extender, lash conditioner used to enhance the eyelashes. Can be of different colors and even waterproof. [1]Eye liner and eye shadow, eye shimmer and glitter eye pencils as well as different color pencils used to color and emphasize the eyelids (larger eyes are a sign of youth).[1]Eyebrow pencils, creams, waxes, gels and powders are used to fill in and define the brows.[1]Nail polish, used to color the fingernails and toenails.[1]Concealer, a type of thick opaque makeup used to cover pimples, various spots and inconsistencies in the skin.[1]Also included in the general category of cosmetics are skin care products. These include creams and lotions to moisturize the face and body, sunscreens to protect the skin from damaging UV radiation, and treatment products to repair or hide skin imperfections (acne, wrinkles, dark circles under eyes, etc.). Cosmetics can also be described by the form of the product, as well as the area for application. Cosmetics can be liquid or cream emulsions; powders, both pressed and loose; dispersions; and anhydrous creams or sticks.Special Effects Cosmetic contact lensesIn addition to over-the-counter cosmetic products, recent years have seen an increasing market for prescription or surgical cosmetic procedures. These range from temporary enhancements, such as cosmetic colored contact lenses, to major cosmetic surgery.Many techniques, such as microdermabrasion and physical or chemical peels, remove the oldest, top layers of skin cells. The younger layers of skin left behind appear more plump, youthful, and soft. Permanent application of pigments (tattooing) is also used cosmetically.While there is assurance from the largest cosmetic companies that their various ingredients are safe, there is a growing preference for cosmetics that are without any "synthetic" ingredients, especially those derived from petroleum. Once a niche market, certified organic products are becoming more mainstream.Ingredients' listings in cosmetics are highly regulated in many countries. The testing of cosmetic products on animals is a subject of some controversy. It is now illegal in the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, and Belgium, and a ban across the European U