People use cosmetics to keep clean and enhance their beauty. These products range from lipstick and nail polish to deodorant, perfume, hairspray, shampoo, shower gel, hair dyes, most soaps, and some cleansing wipes. It is important to use cosmetics products safely.

The National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) reminds you to get the facts before using cosmetics products.

General Tips

Follow these safety guidelines when using cosmetics products of any type:

• Read the label. Follow all directions and attention all warnings.
• Wash your hands before you use the product.
• Do not share makeup.
• Keep the containers clean and tightly closed when not in use and protect them from temperature extremes.
• Throw away cosmetics if there are changes in color or smell.
• Use aerosols or sprays cans in well-ventilated areas. Do not use them while you are smoking or near an open flame. It could start a fire.

Eye Make-Up Tips

There are special safety guidelines for using cosmetics in the eye area. Be sure to keep these practices in mind:

• Do not use cosmetics near your eyes unless they are meant for your eyes. For example, do not use lip liner on your eyes.
• Do not add saliva or water to mascara. You could add germs.
• Throw away your eye makeup if you get an eye infection. The makeup could have become contaminated.

Understanding Cosmetic Labels

Being familiar with the product you are using is important. Be sure to read the entire label, including the list of ingredients, warnings, and tips on how to use the product safely. Also, be aware of the following terms that you may see on the label:

Hypoallergenic: Do not assume that the product will not cause allergic reactions.

Organic or Natural: The source of the ingredients does not determine how safe it is. Do not assume that these products are safer than products made with ingredients from other sources.

Expiration Dates: A cosmetic product may go bad if you store it the wrong way — for example, in a place that is too warm or too moist. Marking the container with the date you open a cosmetic may help you keep track of the age of your cosmetics.

Be cautious when buying cosmetic products from unfamiliar sources such as online shops. Products that promise quick, miraculous, results or make exaggerate claims such as skin whitening within a short period of time may contain potent ingredients that may harm you. National Medicines Regulatory Authority (NMRA) publishes the list of registered cosmetic products on their website (www.nmra.gov.lk) time to time.