We may not think of cosmetics as being perishable, but they are.  Just like food, pharmaceuticals and other compounds, cosmetics can become "spoiled" by bacterial contamination or through aging and exposure to sunlight.

Here are some simple safety precautions:

• Never share your cosmetics with another person.   You wouldn't share your toothbrush, would you?
• Don't use eye cosmetics if you have an eye infection and be sure to throw away all products you were using when you got the infection.
• Keep makeup out of the sun, which can break down preservatives.
• Never add liquid -- especially not saliva! --  to bring the product back to its original consistency.  You could introduce bacterial contamination that would quickly grow out of control. 
• Keep makeup containers tightly closed except when in use.
• If the color changes or an odor develops, throw it away!   This may be a sign that the preservatives have broken down.

Mascara tops the list of items you should be careful with.  One slip of the wand and you can scratch your cornea, possibly introducing a raging eye infection.  Avon recommends that you throw any unused mascara away three months after opening the package. 

Cosmetics Page

Has this happened to you?  Tell us if you've had a similar experience.  You will be helping yourself and others.