Health Tip: Cosmetics May Have Side Effects

(HealthDay News) — Cosmetic products often contain fragrances and preservatives, which could cause skin problems and other side effects among some users.

The Womenshealth.gov website offers these suggestions for safer use of cosmetics:

  • Never apply cosmetics when driving.
  • Never share cosmetics with another person.
  • Store cosmetics out of direct sunlight, away from heat and with caps tightly closed.
  • Skip makeup when you have an eye infection, and throw away old cosmetics if you’ve developed an infection.
  • Don’t add liquid to any cosmetic, unless so-directed on the label.
  • Throw out cosmetics if the color changes or they develop an odor.
  • Don’t use aerosol sprays around fire, and take care not to breathe deeply around aerosol sprays or powders.
  • Avoid additives that aren’t approved for use in a particular cosmetic.