Cosmetics

Cosmetics or makeup are substances to enhance the beauty of the human body, apart from simple cleaning. Their use is widespread, especially among women in Western countries.

Purpose

The primary goal for makeup is to make the wearer more attractive. For most women that involves simulating the appearance of health and youth. Foundation is worn to present the (idealized) appearance of the smooth, unblemished skin of youth. Eyeshadow, eyeliner, and mascara is worn to make the eyes appear larger, and thus more youthful. Blush is worn to mimic the appearance of young skin flushed after exercise. Lipstick makes lips look larger, hides imperfections, and can make lips look more like the lips of a younger person, with thinner skin.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

One sociological theory of makeup (among other things) claims that the role of modern cosmetics is not just to simulate youthfulness and health, but also, to an extent, sexual arousal. Wide eyes, flushed cheeks, and red lips can all be indicators of arousal, although most women would probably call this style of makeup "looking sexy"

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

More general than enhancing beauty, the change of physical appearance is achieved by specialized forms of cosmetics (stage makeup), used to present actors in roles in the theatre and in screen productions. A wide variety of effects are possible and may go so far as to make the actor appear completely nonhuman through the use of prosthetic appliances. Makeup is also used to train medical professionals to recognize and treat injuries (moulage)and clinically to hide scars and blemishes that might otherwise impair social interaction.

Related Topics:
Physical appearance - Actor - Theatre - Prosthetic - Moulage

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Makeup may also be used to make one self look older. Young girls often try this at a young age with their mother's makeup. As they get older they realize that it is more to their advantage to look younger and sexier. Halloween is a time when any one young or old, male or female may use makeup and not feel out of place.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~