The main purpose of this book is to inform laypeople and the professional public about the possibilities offered by cosmetic ingredients of natural origin, to present findings from the latest research and to describe traditional practices. The book does not describe diseases and symptoms, and is not intended for self-treatment. Some (skin, hair) diseases should not be subject to self-treatment, as only trained medical practitioners may make the proper diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment after thorough examination. Typographical errors may appear in the book, despite a thorough review. The authors, editors and publisher shall not be held liable for any damage arising from the use of this book.

The pursuit of a natural way of life is one of the ideals of modern society. Cosmetics represent just one area where this tendency can be strongly felt. It is evident in both a sharp increase in the use of natural cosmetics and in an ever growing awareness of our relationship with nature, which can be seen at the individual level and at the level of society as a whole. This book aims to build and establish a concept of modern cosmetics that derives from these values. Our concept is based on the meshing of the physiological needs of the skin, ecologically and physiologically acceptable cosmetic ingredients, and modern approaches of cosmetology. Textbook on Cosmetics is a book about natural cosmetic ingredients that are gentle to the skin. It is a book of traditional and contemporary knowledge that is supplemented in certain sections by the authors’ critical point of view. Finally, its well-articulated content weaves a rich web of picturesque images of the natural world and original portraits of cosmetics. We invite you to discover this world.