Does your makeup drawer house mascaras, eye shadows and foundations you bought in 2001? Are you still using hand-me-down personal care products, taking no notice of its expiration date? MSNBC reported on a recent study stating British women’s bag of personal cosmetic goods is four years out of date. Cosmetics are perishable; and cosmetic staples such as lipstick, foundation, concealer, eye shadow, etc. are provided a “period after opening” date. Problem is, most makeup users aren’t conscious of this date and run the risk of attracting germs that can be damaging to their health.

The expiration dated is signified by an open pot with the number of months of safe use written inside. According to the study, 89 percent of respondents stated they were unaware a “period after opening” date existed and didn’t understand the meaning of the open-pot symbol or were unable to read the writing.

Once users apply the product after the recommended date, they run the risk of irritation and infection, and a heighten risk of spreading germs. What’s more is many women share their cosmetic products with others, which creates an even higher risk of spreading infection and germs.

Clearly, prudence, caution and awareness are in need.