Did you know that by law, cosmetics are not required to have expiration dates? Just like food, makeup expires, but even if the cosmetic has a printed expiration date, according to the FDA the date should only be considered a “rule of thumb.”

Cosmetic safety - it's a serious issue. Since the day I opened my practice, I have educated patients about what harmful ingredients are lurking in cosmetics, and how to be an educated consumer. In previous blogs, I have provided lists of dangerous cosmetic ingredients to avoid, and of helpful and natural ingredients that really work.

Today I'm offering another tool in your cosmetic safety research arsenal. The Cosmetic Safety Database is a massive database of over 63,000 brand name products. You can search by product name, company name or an ingredient. It will give you a hazard ranking of 0-10, explaining what studies have shown regarding how the product or ingredient contributes to health issues, like cancer, allergies, or even developmental or reproductive issues. Using this database together with my lists, you will have the knowledge and power to make smart and safe decisions for you and your health.

Wondering when you should throw out your cosmetics and replace them with new ones? Experts advise the following timelines. (NOTE: These are general guidelines. Common sense dictates that any cosmetic that changes smell, color, or texture it should be discarded immediately.)

Cosmetics:

• Liquid Foundation, 3-6 months
• Cream foundation, 4-6 months
• Concealer, 6-8 months
• Powder, 1 year
• Mascara, 3 months
• Lip gloss & Lipstick, 1 year
• Eye/Lip Pencils, 1 year

Skincare

• Facial Cleansers & Moisturizers, 6 months
• Toners, 1 year
• Natural Cosmetics, 6 months (anything marketed as "all-natural")

Brushes / Tools

• Natural bristle brushes, wash monthly with mild soap or baby shampoo
• Synthetic brushes, wash 3-4 times a month with mild soap or baby shampoo
• Makeup sponges, wash after every use and dispose within a month

Read over my safe and unsafe cosmetic lists, print them out, and keep them in your purse or wallet. Take them with you as you shop. Research ever product before you buy it. Arm yourself with this knowledge to protect yourself from harmful toxins. Take this information and use it: knowledge = power.

 Categoried under:  Aesthetics Education, Aesthetics Safety, Women's Health