# cosmetics

/kɑzˈmɛtɪks/ (US) · /kɒzmˈɛtɪks/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cosmetics
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. makeup products

noun · CEFR B1

products like makeup, creams, or powders that you put on your skin or hair to look better.

For teachers: preparations applied externally to the skin, hair, or nails to enhance or alter the appearance. Plural-only in this general sense.

- She spent a lot of money on expensive cosmetics at the department store.
- The regulation of cosmetics ensures that the chemicals used in skin creams and hair dyes are safe for long-term daily application.

Usage: Always used in the plural form when referring to the products themselves.

### 2. superficial appearance

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

the way something looks on the outside, especially when the inside stays the same.

For teachers: the superficial aspects or outward appearance of a situation or object, often contrasted with its functional or structural reality.

- The company changed its logo, but it was just cosmetics; the service was still bad.
- The critics argued that the government's new policy was merely cosmetics designed to appease voters without addressing the underlying economic crisis.

Teaching tip: This sense is often used with a negative tone to suggest that a change is shallow or dishonest.

## Examples

- She spends a lot of money on high-quality cosmetics.
- The department store has a large section dedicated to organic cosmetics and skincare products.
- The regulation of cosmetics ensures that the chemicals used in makeup and lotions are safe for long-term contact with human skin.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.