Cosmetology comes from the Greek word “kosmētikos” which means “skilled in adornment.” In modern day use, it refers to a field of study of cosmetics and their use. While the term “cosmetics” is now used broadly to refer to makeup, it is actually anything that beautifies and improves a person’s physical characteristics and features. As such, the cosmetology profession includes not only makeup but beautifying the hair, skin and even nails.