Ladies' Room

Make-up health hazards

Nine out of ten women are putting their health and looks at risk by applying make-up that is past its use-by date.

Most are unaware that their lipstick or mascara can be the home of millions of bacteria, which can cause infections when the make-up is applied.

Many others deliberately hang on to their favourite products for longer than they should because the product has been discontinued and they will not be able to get a replacement.

Experts from the College of Optometrists found that despite recommendations to throw away mascara after three to six months, 92 per cent of women admitted to keeping it for longer.

Nearly two-thirds questioned were using eye make-up that was more than two years old.

Use-by dates for beauty products

3-6 months: Mascara
6-8 months: Liquid foundation, cream foundation, concealer, cleanser and moisturiser.
1 year: Pressed powder, loose powder, shimmer powder, eye shadow, blush, lip gloss, lipstick and toner.
18 months: Eye liner and lip liner.

The worst offenders were women in their late 30s and early 40s, with one in five using eye make-up that is more than five years old.

Rushing to apply a quick coat of mascara on the train or bus when running late is another make up danger.

Scratching the eye with a mascara wand is a common injury from make-up and can lead to eye infections.