I know that last week was supposed to be cosmetic week on the Quest, but my little Xacto knife mishap put me back a few days. I did think it was important to include today's topic to provide some motivation to throw out any cosmetics that might be worse than gross, but truly dangerous to your health.
Cosmetics can get seriously contaminated in any number of ways:
- Adding water to products to bring back the original consistency. The Medical College of Wisconsin's web site notes that this "could introduce bacteria that can easily grow out of control."
- Using old applicators with new products. The University of Illinois at Chicago Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences specifically warns against this practice, explaining that "the applicator will transfer bacteria to the new cosmetic."
- Keeping and using makeup after an eye infection. According to the American Optometric Association, "Bacterial Conjunctivitis is an infection most often caused by staphylococcal or streptococcal bacteria [and] can also occur by . . .use of contaminated eye makeup and facial lotions." In other words, if you do come down with an eye infection, throw out your eye makeup. All of it. Really. This isn't something you want to mess around with.
- Sharing cosmetics. This is probably the biggest no-no listed among the many sites I researched. One of the biggest risks of sharing lip gloss, for instance, appears to be "invasive meningoccal disease" (meningitis) according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health, as well as rheumatic fever. Likewise, the Australian Herpes Management Forum notes that there is a "moderate" chance of getting herpes from lipstick or lip gloss with someone who has a cold sore. Consumer Reports also notes that "if you come in contact with another person's germs" by sharing mascara, "you could wind up with conjunctivitis or some other infection."
- Improper storage. The Consumer Reports article specifically warns against storing mascara above 85 degrees Fahrenheit and to not "leave it in your car for long periods. Temperatures can soar in a vehicle, making it easier for bacteria to grow." The Medical College of Wisconsin also mentions that, "Light and heat can degrade preservatives."
- Improper technique. Because every exposure cosmetics have to air has the introduces pathogens, cbn.com warns to "Never pump your mascara; air just pushes back into the tube."
- Sometimes it's the manufacturer's fault. According to the FDA, "most cases of contamination are due to manufacturers using poorly designed, ineffective preservative systems and not testing the stability of the preservatives during the product's customary shelf life and under normal use conditions."
Although as the FDA notes, "Cosmetics are not expected to be totally free of microorganisms when first used or to remain free during consumer use," the problem with keeping cosmetics past their prime (see yesterday's post on Expiration Dates for Makeup) is that continued use over time invites contamination. "Every time you open a bottle of foundation or case of eye shadow, microorganisms in the air have an opportunity to rush in," is how the FDA puts it. "Preservatives degrade over time and may no longer be able to fight bacteria," is what the Medical College of Wisconsin has to say on the subject. What this all points to is the old adage: when in doubt, throw it out.
