You should approach using cosmetics with caution. You're putting beauty creams, lotions, and powders product over your skin and near your eyes. Most women think nothing of the possible undetected allergic reactions and aging problems that come with using cosmetics on both their faces and bodies.

To help alleviate consumers' concerns though, many products have the term 'hypoallergenic' on the packages. Cosmetic companies market these products to you as if, just because it is "hypoallergenic," then there is no need to worry about skin problems. The truth is that there is no standardized test or method that can back up a claim like this. Some cosmetic companies do extensive testing, but there's no assurance that their test subjects will have your allergic reactions.

Also be wary of products that state "Dermatologist Approved" or "Allergy Tested." These marketing labels do not offer any guarantee that your skin will not have adverse reactions from the cosmetics. And of course, the word "natural" is another great way to pull in the consumer into a mindset of false safety.

Below are some helpful guidelines for safe cosmetic use:

1. Always wash your hands and face before applying cosmetics.

2. Eye cosmetics should be thrown away after 6 months.

3. Mascara should be thrown away after 3 months.

4. Do not use the samples of cosmetics that are open when you visit the store. One survey conducted found that almost 6% were infected with contaminants like fungus.

5. Any makeup that smells funny or has lost its constancy should be thrown away.

6. If you discover and eye infection, do not use makeup. Also, throw away all makeup that you used prior the infection. They may be now be contaminated.