Since ancient times, people have used cosmetics for a number of reasons. Cosmetics can help us make a visible statement about belonging to a group, or they can give us confidence and help us to feel better about our appearance. To be effective, cosmetics must blend art, culture and science. In this book, we'll examine what's behind the bright, colourful products that line the shelves of pharmacies and department stores -- and we'll have some fund along the way!