In 1992, Cover Girl became the first major cosmetic company to sign a black model to an exclusive contract.

It has 17 of the world's top 20 cosmetic companies as clients.

In part, the cosmetic companies are hoping to tap into this tradition.

The cosmetic companies have something else they can play off.

For decades, cosmetic companies have manufactured face creams that offer hope in a jar.

That's another way to go; write to the cosmetic companies.

Many cosmetic companies claim to produce "all natural" and "organic" products.

Like most industries, cosmetic companies resist regulation by government agencies.

The cosmetic companies are not required to report injuries resulting from use of their products.

Supermarket chains, food producers and cosmetic companies have all been targets.