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Out-of-date cosmetics can be 'haven of germs'

Every woman has a pile of cosmetics in her drawer that she sometimes uses, thus putting their health at risk by using beauty products that are past shelf life.

Every woman has a pile of cosmetics in her drawer that she sometimes uses, thus putting their health at risk by using beauty products that are past shelf life.

According to a recent survey of 1,000 females aged between 18 to 70 years, 68 percent of the females only replaced cosmetic products when they ran out of some cosmetics than replacing the old ones that are past shelf life.

Over time, beauty products can become bacteria ridden which can be transferred to the face, and can lead to irritation, or even serious infection.

Girls do not throw out the old cosmetics
A large number of females, 89 percent were not aware that beauty products such as eye shadow, blusher, lipstick, lip gloss, eyebrow pencils, and perfume do have a period after opening symbol, which displays how many months a product would last.

The survey found either they didn’t understand what the symbol meant or were unable to read the often-tiny writing. And were often reluctant to throw these old products away and hold on to them up to 15 years past the recommended use-by dates.

Director of Cosmetics at Debenhams, British department store, United Kingdom, Sara Stern, lead author of the survey said, that old lipstick, mascara and eye pencils could be a 'haven of germs.'

Stern added, “We wouldn't hesitate to chuck out mouldy or bacteria-ridden food and the same standards should apply to the lotions and potions and that we put on our skin. Beauty is timeless but unfortunately, products are not. "

Another 60 percent of women shared make-up with family and friends, which was an open invitation to infections. A further 72 percent never washed make up brushes or sponges although it is recommended to do so once a week.

A lipstick has a recommended life of up to two years, but women hold them to as long as ten years. Using expired lipsticks can make lips dry, irritated, and blistered.

Mr. Bevis Man, from the British Skin Foundation, said, “Make-up sponges are a particular haven for bacteria, especially if they are kept for a long period of time and are not washed. Again, it is best to keep them clean and replace them after a few months' use."

Cosmetic Lifespan
• Concealer : Up to 12 months
• Powder : 2 years
• Cream & gel cleansers : 1 year
• Pencil eye liner : Last up to 3 years
• Lipstick/ Lipgloss : 1 to 2 years
• Nail Polish : Up to 12 months
• Perfume : Up to 3 years
• Sponges : Wash weekly and discard monthly
• Brushes : Wash weekly in a mild detergent
• Eyebrow pencil : 18 months
• Eyeshadow : Last up to 2 years

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