Ask A Scientist Chemistry Archive

Question:  What is make-up made of?
 burbank school

Answer:  Mostly solid and liquid foundations are made by a vanishing 
cream usually an oil-in-water emulsion containing some fatty acid (as
steric acid) and some coloring product.  Face powder is more complicated 
and made by a mixture of products: talc (to help to spread), chalk or 
kaolin (to give moisture absorbing qualities), magnesium stearate 
(gives adherence), zinc oxide and titanium oxide (to help cover the 
skin thorougly) and pigments (for colour).  Pancakes and blushes are 
similar but with some vanishing cream and compacted.  Mascara for the 
eyes is made with vanishing cream and pigments.  Eye shadows if in powder 
form similar to face powder; if in sticks or cream  similar to  lipstcks.  
These have a fatty base together with pigments. Of course these are the 
general ingredients and the different comercial products have different 
formulas sometimes with fancy names.  Many people are allergic to cosmetics 
and must be careful with the products they use, mostly with the ones that 
go near sensitive areas (lips and eyes). So, young ladies, if you want to 
be always pretty, use make up but always with care!
Mabel