10 Things Every Woman Should Know Before Buying Cosmetics

It is a common misconception that all cosmetics are safety-tested by the government before hitting the shelves. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the law does not require cosmetic products and ingredients (except color additives) to have FDA approval before they go on the market [2].

In contrast, the European Union has banned or restricted over 1,300 chemicals in cosmetics, while the U.S. has prohibited or restricted only a handful, such as mercury compounds, chloroform, and methylene chloride [2]. Knowing where your product is formulated can give you a clearer picture of the safety standards it met.

Marketing terms can be intentionally vague. Many women reach for “hypoallergenic” products assuming they won’t cause a reaction, but the FDA does not define this term. Manufacturers can label a product “hypoallergenic” without submitting any substantiating data to the government [1].

Similarly, the term “natural” is not formally regulated. A product can be labeled natural even if it contains a significant amount of synthetic preservatives. If you prioritize clean beauty, check out our guide on The Top Benefits of Using Organic Cosmetics to understand what “organic” certifications actually mean under USDA standards.

The way a product is intended to be used determines its legal classification.

• Cosmetics: Products intended to cleanse or beautify (e.g., lipstick, perfume).

• Drugs: Products intended to treat or prevent disease or change the structure/function of the body [4].

Items like sunscreen, anti-dandruff shampoo, and acne treatments are classified as drugs (or both a drug and a cosmetic). This is why Why You Should Invest in High-Quality Cosmetics is often a matter of safety; professional-grade products typically go through more rigorous testing than budget-friendly “over-the-counter” alternatives.

The eye area is the most delicate part of the face and the most prone to infection.

• Discarding Mascara: You should throw away mascara every two to four months after opening [3].

• Never Add Saliva: Adding water or saliva to “revive” dried-up mascara introduces bacteria and overwhelms the product’s preservatives.

• Prohibited Ingredients: Ingredients like “Kohl” often contain heavy metals like lead and are not approved for use in the U.S. [3].

Labels often highlight trendy ingredients like “Hyaluronic Acid” or “Vitamin C” on the front of the box. However, the order of the ingredient list on the back is what matters. Ingredients are listed in descending order of weight. If the “hero ingredient” is listed after the preservative (usually Phenoxyethanol), it likely exists in a concentration of less than 1%, which may be too low to be effective.

Unlike food, the law does not require cosmetics to have a printed expiration date [5]. However, products do degrade. Look for the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol—a small open jar icon with a number like “12M” (12 months) or “6M”—to know how long the product is safe to use once unsealed [5]. Storing makeup in hot, humid bathrooms can significantly shorten this lifespan.

If you have sensitive skin, be wary of the word “Fragrance” or “Parfum” on a label. Due to trade secret laws, companies are not required to disclose the specific chemicals used to create a scent. A single “fragrance” label can represent dozens of undisclosed chemicals that are common triggers for contact dermatitis [1].

Buying from unauthorized third-party sellers (like some listings on Amazon or eBay) carries significant risks. Counterfeit makeup often tests positive for high levels of bacteria, arsenic, and even animal feces. Always purchase directly from the brand’s website or authorized retailers like Sephora, Ulta, or major department stores.

The FDA has warned that permanent eyelash or eyebrow tints can cause serious eye injuries and even blindness if used incorrectly [3]. While professional-use-only silver nitrate tints are available, they are restricted to trained technicians and are not meant for residential use [1].

To avoid a full-face reaction, always perform a patch test on a small area of skin (like the inner forearm) 24 to 48 hours before applying a new product to your face. Watch for redness, itching, or burning. If a reaction occurs, the FDA recommends stopping use immediately and reporting the adverse event through their MedWatch portal [1].

• Check Regulatory Standards: Be aware that the FDA does not pre-approve cosmetics; the burden of safety falls on the manufacturer.
• Be Scent-Sincere: Avoid “Fragrance” if you have sensitive skin, as it is a legal loophole for undisclosed chemicals.
• Watch the Clock: Use the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol rather than a printed date to track freshness.
• Safety First: Never share makeup or add liquids to extend the life of eye products.

Action Plan for Your Next Purchase

1. Read the Back, Not the Front: Ignore “natural” or “hypoallergenic” claims and read the actual ingredient list in order.
2. Verify the Seller: Ensure you are buying from an authorized retailer to avoid dangerous counterfeits.
3. Perform a 48-Hour Patch Test: Especially for products containing actives like Retinol, Vitamin C, or AHA/BHAs.
4. Audit Your Current Stash: Toss any mascara older than 3 months and any creams that have changed color or smell.

Understanding the science and regulation behind your beauty routine is the best way to ensure your skin stays healthy and your money is well spent. Modern cosmetics have come a long way—even expanding to new demographics as seen in the History and Evolution of Men’s Cosmetics—but the core principles of safety and transparency remain the most important tools for any consumer.