Out-of-date cosmetics link to eye infections

Mintel has warned that out-of-date cosmetics such as mascaras and eye pencils are putting women at risk of eye infections as only one in four takes any notice of use-by dates on make-up or toiletries.

The report described the out of date products as a perfect breeding ground for germs and bacteria and criticised popular cosmetics for their lack of information on use-by dates.

Mintel's senior beauty analyst Alexandra Richmond said: 'These latest findings highlight the lack of information available on cosmetic use-by dates.'

Manufacturers added Period After Opening symbols on packaging when the European Union brought in new rules four years ago, but many ignore these and continue to use mascaras and eye pencils after their six-month lifespan, said Mintel.