Mascara is a cosmetic commonly used to enhance the upper and lower eyelashes. It is used to darken, thicken, lengthen, and/or define the eyelashes. Normally in one of three forms—liquid, powder, or cream—the modern mascara product has various formulas; however, most contain the same basic components of pigments, oils, waxes, and preservatives. The most common form of mascara is a liquid in a tube with an application brush.
A mascara tube and a wand applicator
Mascara being applied
Max Factor cake mascara with brush, 1960
Max Factor waterproof mascara creme in a tube with a brush, 1960
Cosmetics are composed of mixtures of chemical compounds derived from either natural sources or synthetically created ones. Cosmetics have various purposes. Those designed for personal care and skin care can be used to cleanse or protect the body and skin. Cosmetics designed to enhance or alter one's appearance (makeup) can be used to conceal blemishes, enhance one's natural features, add color to a person's face, or change the appearance of the face entirely to resemble a different person, creature or object. Cosmetics can also be designed to add fragrance to the body.
Assorted cosmetics and tools
An actor applying bold makeup for a stage performance
Actor Marcus Stewart wearing bold face makeup in the play Oresteia by Aeschylus (2019)
A bust of the Egyptian queen Nefertiti showing the use of eye liner made of kohl
