Etymology
The term 'Cosmetic' was derived from the ancient Greek word Cosmos - pronounced as kosmetike (the art of dressing and ornamentation)

What are Cosmetics?
According to the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940:
1[2 [(aaa)] "cosmetic" means any article intended to be rubbed, poured, sprinkled or sprayed on, or introduced into, or otherwise applied to, the human body or any part thereof for cleansing, beautifying, promoting attractiveness, or altering the appearance, and includes any article intended for use as a component of cosmetic 3* * *;]
1 Ins. by Act 21 of 1962, s. 4 (w.e.f. 27-7-1964).
2 Cl. (aa) relettered by Act 13 of 1964, s. 2 (w.e.f. 15-9-1964).
3 omitted by Act 68 of 1982, s.3, certain words.

Types of Cosmetics
Basically all the products that modify the natural appearance of a person for beautification or preservation purposes come under the category of cosmetics. They mostly clean, nourish, protect, or color parts of the body that are conspicuous to others such as the skin, hair, eyes, lips, teeth, and nails. Cosmetics can be classified on the basis of the nature of the preparation (powders, creams, lotions, sprays, gels, oils, shampoos, soaps), area of application (hair color, lipstick, nail polish, eye liner, face scrub), and mode of action (deodorants, perfumes, sun-screens, moisturizers). These may contain natural or synthetic ingredients. Herbal cosmetics are extremely popular these days as they are safer and rarely trigger any adverse or allergic reactions.

An Overview of Cosmetics
From time immemorial or rather to be more precise, since the very dawn of civilization, humans have always felt that innate urge to adorn themselves in order to make a statement amongst their peers and to impress or lure their prospective mate. Although the ancient Asians, Romans, and Greeks were known to use cosmetics, archaeological evidences reveal that the Egyptians were the first to use them. Generations have changed but the urge still remains and has in fact grown by leaps and bounds to such an extent that now, cosmetology has almost assumed the dimensions of a revolution or a movement. Today, a deep sense of appearance consciousness prevails with people becoming very particular about the way they present themselves in accordance with the ambience, audience, and occasion. Cosmetics are no longer limited only to the rich and the famous, neither are they the prerogative of solely the women. Even the guy next door has metamorphosed into a metrosexual man who is keenly keeping himself abreast of changing trends.