Components of Cosmetic Products

Study Notes

A cosmetic preparation consists of three components: an active ingredient, a base (or vehicle), and an additional substance.
The active ingredient is the main component that produces the main effect, and it may be an antibiotic medication, a substance that inhibits aging, or a substance that lightens dark lesions on the skin.
The base is the material that "carries" the active ingredient into the skin and ensures it remains chemically stable, penetrates the skin, and is released effectively.
The three elemental bases are fatty bases, aqueous (water) solutions, and powders.
Additional substances may include fragrances, dyes, and preservatives like benzoic acid, imidazolidinyl urea, and parabens.

The Catagen phase is a transitional phase that lasts 2-4 weeks, during which the hair stops growing.
The Telogen phase lasts 3-6 months, during which the mechanism responsible for hair growth is inactive.
The Exogen phase is when the hair is only loosely attached to the follicle and can be easily pulled out.

Ancient Egyptians used makeup to enhance their appearance, including eyeliner and eye-shadows in dark colors.
Cleopatra was known for her baths of milk and Nefertiti used eye liner made of kohl.
Ancient Sumerian men and women may have invented and worn lipstick around 5,000 years ago.
Cosmetics were mentioned in the Old Testament, such as in 2 Kings 30, where Jezebel painted her eyelids.
Roman women used to dye their hair darker with a mixture of boiled walnuts and leeks.