Old Makeup Can Cause Serious Eye Infections

Cosmetics designed to give women an eye-opening appearance can harbor bacteria, which can cause serious eye infections.

"Eyelashes naturally have bacteria on them and as soon as you use a makeup brush on the eyelash or eyelid, the brush is contaminated," says Dr. Alice Matoba, associate professor of ophthalmology at Baylor College of Medicine and attending physician at The Methodist Hospital.

Over time, this leads to a buildup of bacteria in the cosmetics container, increasing the chance for an eye infection or an allergic reaction with each use of the product.

"Particles of makeup can land in the eyes and cause redness and irritation," says Dr. Matoba. "More serious, potentially sight-threatening infections can result if the surface of the eye is scratched with a contaminated brush or makeup pencil."

Most cosmetics have long shelf lives, but since they can be contaminated with bacteria after only one use, it is a good idea to keep track of how long you have been using products such as mascara and eyeliners.

"While there are no guidelines for cosmetics use, risk of infection can be reduced if you change them out every three to four months," says Dr. Matoba.

Also, avoid sharing cosmetics with other people.

- From Baylor College of Medicine

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Courtesy of Texas Medical Center News

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©2006 Texas Medical Center

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E-Mail: tmcinfo@texmedctr.tmc.edu
URL: http://www.tmc.edu/health_briefs/11_01_97-makeup.html