by Barbara Mitchell

Created on: March 10, 2008

Down through the ages both men and women have used cosmetics to make themselves more attractive. The ancient Egyptians are well known for their use of cosmetic products, ranging from oils used to protect their skin to kohl, a preparation used to darken their eyes.

Today's cosmetics industry has made great strides in developing products that we can use to effectively enhance our appearance. Many products on today's market are designed to hydrate, protect, and cover the skin. Many others are designed to glamorize. Brushes and other applicators have been designed to make it easy to apply these products.

Air Stocking

The original product line offers a spray foundation made from fine silk particles to give your legs a flawless look. The makers say it will not rub off on clothing and is waterproof. The product line also includes body make-up which helps in covering minor skin flaws. Many imitators have come on the market.

Bare Minerals

This line of "natural" cosmetics was started in 1976 by Bare Escentuals. They offer foundation, cheek and eye color products made from crushed minerals that are free from chemicals, talc, preservatives, and perfumes. The Bare Minerals line has expanded to include skin preparation formulas, lip products, mascara, and even make-up brushes.

Beauty

This is defined as the qualities in a person that give pleasure to the senses. There is inner beauty that comes from within a person and extends from their thoughts and attitudes toward themselves and others, and there is outer beauty which can be enhanced through the use of cosmetics.

Cosmetics Mixers

This term refers not only to the hardware used to blend cosmetics, but also to the ingredients added to cosmetics to blend them smoothly. Many ingredients added to cosmetics for a variety of reasons may be hazardous to your health. You may want to avoid products with the following ingredients: Methylparaben, Propylene Glycol, Stearalkonium Chloride, and Triethanolamine, to name just a few.

Dermablend

This leg and body creme comes in 16 shades and covers unsightly spider and varicose veins, tattoos, bruises, stretch marks, and scars. The company also offers a face creme to cover skin flaws, a redness concealer, a loose powder to set make-up, and powder and foundation brushes for precision product application.

Eyelashes

There are some exciting eyelash products on the market that range from "at home" eyelash extension kits to fabulous faux lashes that last for 3 - 5 uses. You can also find eyelash serum products that help your eyelashes look healthier, longer, and fuller over time.

Foundation Brushes

These can be made from synthetic or natural bristles. Either brush type provides a smoother application than a sponge and is more sterile than using your fingers. Look for a kabuki brush to give you full coverage when applying foundation, whether it be liquid, solid, or mineral powder.

Make-up Brushes

Your choices are synthetic and natural bristles and can be used with everything from eyeliner to foundation. Invest in the best quality product you can afford. The investment will pay off in how flawless your make-up looks. If you can't afford a full set, buy one or two brushes at a time.

Mineral Make-up

A wonderful product for a natural look that applies almost effortlessly. Made from crushed minerals, it's easy on your skin and looks fantastic. If product quality is more important to you than cost, then look for one of the name brands in finer department stores or online.

Powder Foundations

Some of the newer mineral foundations offer sheer, flawless coverage that also provide a natural look to your make-up. Powder foundations help to minimize pores and are also useful for covering oily skin.

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