ABSTRACT

Cosmetics, also known as makeup or make-up, are care substances used to enhance the appearance or odour of the human body. They are generally mixtures of chemical compounds, some being derived from natural sources (such as coconut oil) and many being synthetics (Günther Schneider, Sven Gohla, Jörg Schreibe,2005). Whether it’s for putting on a show or just to play dress up, we have all used or seen it being used at least once in our lives. Makeup, which includes eye shadow, liquid foundation, lipstick, or mascara, is used by both genders, but is predominantly used by more females than males. Makeup can easily alter a woman’s appearance and this is why it’s exceedingly popular among today’s younger generation. Makeup communication on the body can do wonders for women, but if not handled properly makeup can pose a threat to their health. Cosmetics being a skin lightening agents have been used to lighten skin colour for decades (Nnoruka & Okoye, 2006). It has been a common practice throughout the world, especially in the sub-Saharan Africa, starting in dark-skinned women, but recently spreading to fair-skinned women to tone their skin colour (de Souza, 2008). The use of lightening agents is very common in Asia and Africa, because having fair skin is linked to beauty and high social class. In Africa, the use of cosmetic lightener agents has been a long-standing practice that chiefly aims to change one’s skin colour and is a socially acceptable habit(de Souza,2008) It is common among both men and women.