Expand: date=May 2007

Cosmetics in a variety of forms date back to early civilizations, with the need to improve ones personal appearance being an important factor in attracting a mate. Over the years the ingredients have changed dramatically as we discovered how to manufacture our own scents and cosmetic formulae. The realisation of the dangers of many common ingredients also greatly impacted the growing industry.Fact: date=April 2007

Ancient Egyptian aristocracy made use of minerals to provide colour and definition to their facial features. During the era of the Greek Empire it was common to use face paints, while the Romans indulged in baths containing oil-based perfume.Fact: date=April 2007

Common ingredients

Castor oil and its derivatives are found in many cosmetics as it is "non-comedogenic" (does not exacerbate or contribute to acne).International Caster Oil Association. "ICOA Technical Bulletins - Effect on Skin". Accessed 27 January 2007.

Cerebrosides (cells from the nervous systems of cattle or swine) were once used in some high-end skin-care products to increase moisture retention and to create a smooth skin surface,Adams, Cecil. 31 March 2000. "Does lipstick contain fish scales?". Accessed 24 January 2007. however the BSE controversy has put an end to this practice.Fact: date=April 2007

In many countries colours in cosmetics are listed as colour index numbers. C.I. numbers are allocated by the Society of Dyers and Colourists. The scheme covers colours used in food, personal care products, cosmetics, household products and fabric dyeing. So, for example you will not normally see tartrazine listed in lipstick ingredients, but it may be there listed as C.I. 19140. Erythrosine will be listed as C.I. 45430, and so on. In US and Canada colors are listed as FD & C colors. tartrazine (E012) is FD & C Yellow 5 and erythrosine (E127) is FD & C Red 3.

Visual effects

Strong red colours for eye products have been produced using the dye carmine, made from carminic acid extracted form the crushed bodies of the cochineal insect. Fact: date=April 2007 Carmine was once the only bright red color permitted by the FDA for use around the eye.Fact: date=April 2007

Facial cosmetics

The Romans and ancient Egyptians used cosmetics containing mercury.Fact: date=April 2007

Foundation

Women of Roman Britain used a foundation made from animal fat, starch and tin oxide.BBC News. 3 November 2004. "Roman cosmetic secrets revealed". Accessed 27 January 2007.