In this Article

• Introduction to cosmetic allergies
• What are the symptoms of a cosmetic reaction?
• What causes cosmetic reactions?
• How common are reactions to cosmetics?
• What should I do if I have an allergic reaction?
• How are allergic reactions diagnosed?
• How are cosmetic reactions treated?
• What can I do to prevent cosmetic reactions?
• Making sense of product labels
• More safety tips
• Pictures of Common Allergy Triggers - Slideshow
• Cosmetic Allergies Glossary
• Cosmetic Allergies Index

More safety tips:

• Always use good personal hygiene. Be sure to clean your hands and face before applying make-up.



• Never share make-up.



• If you want to test a product in the store, ask for a new, unused applicator, and ask the salesperson to wipe the opening of the tester with alcohol.



• Keep cosmetic containers tightly closed, except when being used. Keep containers free of dust and dirt.



• Keep cosmetics away from heat and out of direct sunlight.



• Do not use eye make-up if you have an eye infection, such as conjunctivitis. Discard those products and use new ones when your infection is gone.



• Discard products if the color changes or they develop an odor. This may mean the preservatives in the products are no longer able to fight bacteria.



• If the consistency of a product changes, do not add water. Discard the product.



• Clean cosmetic brushes and applicators frequently.

Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine.

Edited by Michael W. Smith, MD, November 1, 2006.

Portions of this page © The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2004

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