Boom in Organic Cosmetics

Organic products are those made without being grown using chemicals and pesticides. The rise in usage of organic goods has gone up significantly in the United States in the last few years. Sales in natural cosmetics are marketed as made with plant or mineral ingredients. Within the past year, Americans have spent up to $150 million on the top natural personal care brands. In 2006, sales of these organic goods have reached $350 million. This number was $68 million dollars more then that of 2005. "We're seeing an increased consciousness that what you put on your body is as important as what goes in your body," said Jeremiah McElwee, the senior coordinator in charge of personal care at Whole Foods. It is warned, however, to double check any label before purchasing items marketed as "organic" and "natural." Just because something comes from a plant, doesn't always mean it's safe or healthy for you.


Make up and cosmetics have been a part of human life for thousands of years. People throughout history have put their health at risks with what they put on their bodies. Early cultures had developed cosmetics using arsenic, lead, mercury, and even leeches to achieve a certain look. The first records of make up come from Egypt, during the first Dynasty. A substance called unguent was used by both men and women to keep skin hydrated. Women also used kohl, or soot, to decorate their eyelids and eye lashes. By 1910, woman were using wax or petroleum jelly as form of mascara. Also in this time period, major make up companies today, including Maybelline, were being released in drug stores. As decades progressed, different trends have developed into the cosmetic culture we know today. Thankfully, cosmetics have come such a long way and the multi billion dollar industry must meet very strict regulations on what it can and cannot allow in its products for safety purposes.

WebMD: History of Make Up
Make Up Timeline
Natural Cosmetic Sales