Cosmetics in the Modern World

Cosmetics in the Modern World

Human beings are biologically programmed to respond to signs of good health in other people, most notably the way that the person looks. The appearance of the face and body tell other people how healthy the person is, how well-suited their genetics are, whether they are well-nourished, and whether they are diligent and consistent about their care for their own body.

Centuries ago, beauty treatments and cosmetic procedures were very limited and eventually a point was reached when a man or woman simply had to grow old gracefully, resigning themselves to the appearance of age-related marks upon their face or body. Today, however, a vast number of beauty treatments and cosmetic procedures exist that can arrest this process, returning a person to their former glory or correcting flaws, both real and perceived.

Beauty treatments for the masses

A number of beauty treatments have made their way from the doctor’s office or spa to the local pharmacy or salon, making them available to the average person for a much lower cost than previously available. While many of these beauty treatments are seen as for “women-only”, many men are beginning to embrace them. For example, facials and hair removal are not just for women anymore; many men are appreciating the positive results that regular facial treatments can have on their sensitive, often-shaved skin. Hair removal, including waxing, electrolysis and laser processes, are also increasing in popularity with men as they follow the urban trends for a hairless chest, back and even arms and legs.

Many women and men see cosmetic surgery as a last resort. This may be because they fear going “under the knife”, as it were, or because it is perceived as an exercise in vanity rather than a necessity. Whatever the reason, finding ways to accomplish the results of cosmetic surgery without the actual surgery has resulted in the surge in non-invasive cosmetic procedures.

Non-invasive cosmetic procedures, including Botox, dermal fillers and other skin-smoothing treatments, provide the person receiving them with the same effects that a surgical face-lift would, restoring the face’s smoothness and the line-free look of youth. An advantage of these techniques is that the individual can customize the look; if only forehead creases or marionette lines need to go, then they can be targeted for treatment and the rest of the face left alone.

Choosing the right cosmetics for you

Once the decision has been made to seek some kind of beauty or cosmetic treatment, choosing the right one becomes the issue. Begin with some research; an online search for “skin care”, “beauty treatments” or “cosmetic treatments” will lead to a variety of prospective providers such as American Laser Skincare, as well as a wealth of information.

Once several possibilities have been identified, seek out reviews for those procedures, products or providers. These reviews may be found online, through consumer reporting outlets and, of course, through friends, family or co-workers who may have utilized the treatment or frequented the salon or other provider.