I just watched a story on the news....a university did a study on makeup and creams at makeup counters and they were grossed out at the number of bacterias they found on the samples (eye shadow, lipstick, base, creams). I guess some women actually put the lipstick directly on their mouth, etc. They also found high numbers of e coli, which is from fecal matter, which means people aren't washing their hands after they use the bathroom and then touching the samples!!! I am so glad I do not like makeup! Just thought I would share. Sounds like you could catch a lot of gunk from the makeup counter!

By Karen~moderator on Monday, June 27, 2005 - 07:42 am:

I see people doing that all the time at makeup counters, Kim. I NEVER EVER try samples of makeup at makeup counters on my face or eyes or mouth. The ONLY place I try a color is on the top of my hand or the underside of my wrist. NO way would I put it near my face. And I always wash it off my hand afterwards. EWWWWWWWWWW!

By Children03 on Monday, June 27, 2005 - 08:46 am:

I wear makeup all of the time, but I NEVER try on any samples. I only wear what I buy brand new. That is so gross.

By Karen~moderator on Monday, June 27, 2005 - 09:37 am:

I see people putting the lipstick on their mouths, wiping it off, trying another color.... I have even seen people in places like CVS or WalMart tearing open the seals on lipsticks and trying the colors, then putting the tube back in the display. I've seen them open liquid foundation and try it too. It grosses me out every time. I only buy stuff that is sealed.

By Dawnk777 on Monday, June 27, 2005 - 10:50 am:

Ewwwwwww! I'm not much of a make-up person and I used to try stuff at the counter, but I haven't done that in a really long time! I guess I won't ever do it again.

By Bellajoe on Monday, June 27, 2005 - 11:12 am:

oh that's just gross.

I don't stop at the makeup counters at the mall. I only apply brand new makeup.