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The majority of women are unaware of the fact that their make-up bag probably contains a cocktail of potentially harmful toxic chemicals. Individual items of make up do not show a sell by date' or a use by date' or in fact a Government health warning.

Is your make-up bag safe? I would guess not in most cases. Apart from the toxin issues, any item in your make-up bag that has not been used for six months should be binned, a dry eye pencil is just going to drag the delicate tissue around the eye and an old lipstick is going to bleed. Container lids have probably cracked spilling particles into your bag, these alone may not be harmful, but mixed together can cause potential risk of infection. Make up brushes and sponges should be washed thoroughly and regularly, especially those used around the eye, and if you have a brush that is shedding hairs, then it is definitely time to buy a new one.

When we shop for new make-up, are we really aware of the chemicals used to make it? Do we bother to read the back of a box? Not all items of make-up are presented and sold in a box, and not all manufacturers are prepared to give a substantial list of ingredients; a sales assistant is not equipped to tell you the amount of toxic chemicals you are purchasing that may cause health issues. For example: known ingredients such as dye, lead and harmful carcinogens (cancer producing substances) can cause skin rashes/allergies, eye infections apart from more serious ailments.

It is time for women to take responsibility and make safer choices. Natural and organic cosmetics and toiletries are in abundance in our shops today, such as aloe vera, natural olive oil and essential oils. We can choose fragrance free products and items without artificial colouring.

There are also many homemade alternatives, check the internet for recipes for use of yogurt or lemon juice for example, visit your local health and natural beauty shop for advice and ideas. Making your own products can be fun, especially for those who have children who like to experiment with Mom's make-up bag, let them get involved and make a smaller version for themselves. What better way to introduce youngsters into a safe beauty regime and personal grooming.

Learn more about this author, Veronica James.
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