The hidden health hazards in our bags

17:37 26 February 2010

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 at Debenhams found that despite recommendations to throw away mascara after four to six months, 89 per cent of women admitted to keeping such items for longer.

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

Use-by dates for beauty products

4-6 months: Mascara
6-8 months: Liquid foundation, cream foundation, concealer, cleanser and moisturiser
18-24 months: Pressed powder, loose powder, shimmer powder, eye shadow, blush, lip gloss, lipstick and toner
18 months: Eye liner and lip liner
36 months: Perfume

Despite the recomendations, many women are keeping their lipstick up to 10 years.

a further 68% say they replace make-up or skin products onl when they run out, and 72% admit to never washing their make-up sponges or brushes.

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.

Spokeman for Debenhams, Sara Stein said "Beauty is timeless, but unfortunately productsare not.'