Etymological and historical aspects of Cosmetology and its meaning

Abstract

At different times in human history, the physical aspect or appearance has been considered necessary for social, work and love success, and is an ally of good self-esteem. The concept of beauty is a kind of fashion that changes with the passage of time and depends largely on cultural and religious traditions, as well as cosmetics, treatments and techniques used to beautify the human being. This review article describes the etymological and historical aspects of cosmetology and its meaning. Starts with a brief analysis of the etymology of the word “cosmetology”, followed by the definition of the word from different theoretical perspectives; culminating with a description of the history of cosmetology in different eras, namely, egyptian, Greek, roman, middle ages, of the XIX and XX centuries and from the present. The analysis shows that,” Kosmetos “and” logia “are two Greek terms that, when joined together, reach a concrete meaning, referring to” beauty “and” study"; so cosmetology is the study of beauty; and it is located within the health sciences. History indicates that, for skin care and physical improvement, different civilizations have used natural products extracted from minerals, animals and plants, as well as products of chemical synthesis. It is concluded that, although cosmetology is the science or art of beautifying people, it is not simply limited to it, it also includes skin care, the prevention of diseases related to it, and the use of treatments and non-invasive techniques to correct imperfections, aggressions and alleviate some dermatological, body and skin pathologies.