Beware of Make-up Bacteria Risk

The average British woman's make-up bag is out of date by four years, new research has revealed. Eyeshadow, blusher and lipstick were found to be months - or even years - past their use by dates, after a study showed that make-up users were unaware that their products could be a magnet for germs.

The survey, which was carried out by Debenhams, revealed that most women did not know that all cosmetics are required to carry a symbol that indicates how long they can be safely kept. Eighty-nine per cent of the 1,000 women polled were unaware that such information exists, did not understand what the symbol means or were unable to read the tiny writing.

The consequence is a heightened risk of irritation and infection from make-up, perfume and skincare products used after the expiry date. While make-up products do contain ingredients that protect against infection, they lose effectiveness over time. Combined with frequent exposure to air creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.

Multi-use products, that can be used in several different ways, carry an even higher risk as they can spread germs from eyes to skin to lips. Sixty per cent of women also admitted to sharing make-up with friends and family, multiplying the chances of infection.

Sara Stern, Director of Cosmetics at Debenhams, said: 'British women are famously loyal to make up brands and products, however, their reluctance to throw away old products is a risky business.

'We wouldn't hesitate to chuck out mouldy or bacteria-ridden food and the same standards should apply to the lotions and potions that we put on our skin. Beauty is timeless but unfortunately, products are not.'

The study found that 68 per cent of women only replace make-up and skincare when they run out, however long that might take. Seventy-two per cent of those surveyed never wash their make up sponges or brushes, even though they should do at least once a week.

And 81 per cent go to sleep without removing their make up at least once a week. Bevis Man of the British Skin Foundation said: 'It's not always obvious when make-up has passed its prime, so it may not occur to people to replace their products.

'It is best to err on the side of caution and if a product looks or smells strange, it is worth throwing it away.

'Cost is probably a major factor in why people do not replace out-of-date cosmetics.

'However, products can dry out and become less effective as they age.

'Your eyes are one area of your face you need to be particularly careful with, as eye infections can be painful and long-lasting.

'Make-up sponges are a particular haven for bacteria, especially if they are kept for a long period of time and are not washed.

'Again, it is best to keep them clean and replace them after a few months' use.'

As a result of its research, Debenhams is now exploring ways in which cosmetic use-by dates can be better communicated to customers. A nationwide 'make-up amnesty' is in the pipeline, and the retailer has also written to the Secretary of State for Health, Andy Burnham, to push for further legislation to cover the safety of consumers.

'Hopefully this call to action will encourage women to have a ruthless spring clean of their cosmetics collections,' added Ms Stern.KMPS