Author: Marcos C. Quintero

It’s hardly a surprise when we say that cosmetics are a large industry, but have you ever considered how makeup is made? In North America alone, approximately $35 billion per year on foundation, mascara, lipstick and all other types of makeup. Obviously, the art of artifice is good business. However, the popularity of the mercury and lead used in many products is the reason why the US Food and Drug Administration plays a role in the regulation of safety and purity of cosmetics. Nowadays, manufacturers are avoiding mercury and lead by utilising materials that are safe for human contact. The question remains; what constitutes safe makeup? To begin with, good makeup meets the consumers’ requirement for consistency. For instance, the final swipes of a lipstick tube should look as if they were the first swipes of the colour. Of course, customers will consider various factors when choosing their makeup. Does the makeup run? Is it a brand that lasts the full day or not? Can it look fresh for hours or will it wipe off on anything it contacts? To achieve the goals, manufacturers spend years developing carefully guarded formulas. They have also invested in manufacturing equipment that can produce well-blended and safe cosmetics with correct colour, consistency, stability, scent and combinations of ingredients. How is Mascara Developed? To increase the dramatic visibility of one’s eyes, mascara is utilised...