cosmetic
noun [ C, usually plural ]
uk/kɒzˈmetɪk/ usa cream or other substance that you put on your skin, hair, etc. in order to improve its appearance:
Europe is the world's largest market for cosmetics.
cosmetics industry/retailer, etc. The cosmetics industry has remained strong during the recession.
cosmetic
adjective
uk/kɒzˈmetɪk/ usused to describe a small change, etc. that is made in order to make something seem better than it was before, and that does not really affect its basic character:
We are committed to addressing the root causes of our problems rather than making only short-term cosmetic changes.
relating to a substance or treatment that is used to improve someone's appearance:
The popularity of cosmetic surgery continues to soar.