Compact (cosmetics)

Vintage art deco compact, c. 1960s, made by Stratton of Birmingham

A compact is cosmetic product. It is usually contained in a small, round case, with two or all of the following: a mirror, pressed powder cake, or loose powder with a gauze sifter, and a powder puff. The term is an abbreviation for "compact powder". Eventually the more elaborate compact, the 'vanity case' became popular as it had more compartments for more makeup items.

Compacts prior to the 1960s are vintage and are very desirable as a collector's item. Made of many different materials and often depicting the era of when it was made. i.e.: Art Deco. Some of the early compact manufacturers include Stratton, Kigu, Le Rage, Mascot.