Bare Facts explores the application of science, design, manufacturing and marketing to
the real world of the cosmetics and toiletry industry.
The site is intended for use at:
Key Stage 3
Key Stage 4
- Design and Technology (Graphics Products) GCSE
- Design and Technology (Resistant Materials) GCSE
- Business Studies GCSE.
Bare Facts is also relevant for areas of:
- Hair and Beauty Studies BTEC
- Health and Social Care BTEC
- Engineering GCSE
- Applied Science GCSE
- Media Studies GCSE
- Manufacturing GCSE.
In the Key Stage 3 Science section we look at the science behind some popular cosmetics
and toiletry products – why we use them, what they are made from, and how they work.
In the Key Stage 4 Design and Technology (Graphics Products/ Resistant
Materials) GCSE Business Studies section we encourage students to consider the design,
manufacture and marketing of cosmetic products and toiletries.
Bare Facts enables students to work at their own pace, either online or by downloading
information from the site. There are downloadable fact sheets and worksheets for use in
class, for revision or as homework.
For each section, we have also included some fun practical activities that can be performed in
the classroom. These are also ideal for a science club, science fairs or open days.
The recipes in the classroom activities provide hands-on learning and experience of making
These recipes are not representative of commercially-made products. Those must comply with
stringent quality control requirements and mostly will contain preservatives or display a ‘best
Please ensure students do not ingest the ingredients and ask that all mixes are disposed of after
the lesson. They should not be kept for more than 24 hours or taken home for personal use.
Ask students to perform their own risk assessment on the activity sessions rather than providing
them with risk information.
Your students may ask you about animal testing of cosmetics. Reassure them that cosmetics
sold in Europe are not tested on animals. Students can research the EU ban on animal testing
for cosmetics using the following useful pages: