Cosmetics Contaminated

Haven't most shoppers noticed how clean, shiny, and bright department store cosmetic counters are. And the consultant-employee dressed in clinic white.

It was surprising to learn that sometimes 100% of the counter samples were contaminated with bacteria. Some of it fecal. That belongs in the bathroom. Only the open containers were sampled and then tested by Physician-Professor Elizabeth Brooks, Rowan University.

Twenty brands of skin, eye, and lip products were tested over two year period. Professor Brooks also said none of this bacteria would kill you but could create problems like eye conjunctivitus, etc. What sounded worse to me was the E.Coli bug that could be traced to fecal matter. Seems some cosmetic samplers did not wash after using the bathroom. And those using the samples after them would likely become contaminated also.

Maybe the stores hearing of this problem will sanitize their samples. Wipe them with anti-bacterial swab after each use or something. What about individual samples? And people samping from these open and used containers should test on their hands instead of face. More people sampling cosmetics should avoid applying any of this near eyes, nose, or mouth.

There are many reports of Professor Brooks research. Click title for one.