Cosmetics are they really safe? This is a question any lay man would pose. But in general terms we know that cosmetics are not very safe. Everyday these Tele actresses cover themselves with layers of make up. The common ideology is to look good and get the makeover done which would make the other person to be the best. In this glamour world people have to constantly show their potentiality to be the best and feel the best. They are every minute performing and showing their talent as they aim to reach the skies. The common notion is that do not use any body elses lipstick which can spread germs. But people know about it and still desperately want to use it. But is this thing really of so much importance? Well lets find answers to this question as to whether are cosmetics really safe as we think it to be. 

Cosmetics can become unsafe if:
· Sharing makeup can also lead to serious problems. Cosmetics become contaminated with bacteria the brush or applicator sponges picks up from the skin--and if you moisten brushes with saliva, the problem is much more severe. Washing your hands before using makeup will help prevent exposing the makeup to bacteria.

· Artificial nails can be a source of problems, especially when not applied correctly. Artificial nails must be completely sealed because any space between the natural nail and the artificial nail gives fungal infection an opportunity to begin. Such infections can lead to permanent nail loss.

· Sleeping while wearing eye makeup can cause problems, too. If mascara flakes into your eyes while you sleep, you might awaken with itching, bloodshot eyes, and possibly infections or eye scratches. To avoid eye infections or injury, remove all makeup before going to bed.

· Serious problems from cosmetic use are rare, but sometimes problems arise with specific products. For example, FDA warned consumers about the danger of using aerosol hairspray near heat, fire, or while smoking. Until hairspray is fully dry, it can ignite and cause serious burns. Injuries and deaths have occurred from fires related to aerosol hairsprays.

· Another problem can occur with aerosol sprays or powders; If they are inhaled, they can cause lung damage.

Everyday products such as shampoo, deodorant and make-up contain chemicals linked to cancer, birth defects and other serious health consequences. Why? Because cosmetics manufacturers are allowed to use almost any chemical as an ingredient without government approval.

Cosmetics should be made with safe, non-toxic ingredients. Some leading companies agree. So far, more than 175 companies have signed the Compact for Safe Cosmetics, a pledge to make safe products. Now its time for all major manufacturers to do the same. A report released last year by the Environmental Working Group, a nonprofit environmental research organization, found that phthalates -- chemicals used in beauty products such as nail polish and fragrances -- caused birth defects in animals. But dont toss your cosmetics just yet. "Theres absolutely no evidence that these chemicals harm humans," says Parents adviser Hilda Hutcherson, an ob-gyn in New York City. The FDA agrees, stating in its report that "there is no reason for consumers to be alarmed at the use of cosmetics containing phthalates." Still, exercise caution. "Avoid overexposure to these products," Dr. Hutcherson says. "Dont douse your body in perfume several times a day." For a list of products that dont contain phthalates, log on to www.ewg.org/cosmetics/phthalatefree.php.

You should also avoid any beauty product or acne cream that contains Retin-A or other vitamin A derivatives, such as Accutane. And steer clear of antiaging products with high levels of vitamins K and E. While they are probably fine in small doses, many of these products havent been tested for use during pregnancy.

Checklist for Buying Cosmetics
Consider the following questions when purchasing cosmetic products
1. Are the ingredients listed?
2. Are the ingredients simple and natural - avoiding unnecessary synthetic chemical additives?
3. Is this product cruelty-free - not tested on animals?
4. Does this product avoid wasteful packaging?
5. Is this product sold in a container that can be refilled/reused, or only recycled?
6. Is this product reasonable priced or are you paying for excessive packaging and advertising?
7. Is this product safe to use or does it have cautions and warning about harmful effects? 8. Do you really need this product?