Indonesian BPOM (Badan Pengawas Obat dan Makana...)
FDA: Eye cosmetics are safe
2026-02-05
Most eye cosmetics are safe when used correctly. However, special attention is needed:Infection risk、Damage caused by application tools,as well asUsing unapproved colorants (pigment additives)。
Keep it clean!
Eye makeup products are generally safe when purchased, but improper use can allow dangerous bacteria or fungi to grow in them. Subsequent application around the eyes can then lead to infection. In rare cases, some women have experienced temporary or permanent blindness due to infections caused by eye makeup. Please see the "Safety Checklist" below for information on keeping eye makeup clean and preventing infection.
Sometimes, even new eye cosmetics can have contamination issues. The FDA has implemented regulations targeting cosmetics (including eye cosmetics) contaminated with harmful microorganisms.Import Alert。
Do not share! Do not exchange!
Never share or exchange eye makeup with others—not even your best friend. Their germs could be harmful to you. The risk of contamination may be even higher with "testers" in retail stores because many people use the same sample. If you must try cosmetics in a store, make sure to use [safe products/methods].One-time useApplication tools, such as clean cotton swabs.
Don't move!
Applying makeup in your car or on public transport may seem time-saving, but resist the temptation—even if you're not the driver. If the vehicle bumps, brakes suddenly, or there's a collision, you could injure your eyes with the mascara brush or other applicator (such as scratching your cornea). Even a minor abrasion can lead to a serious infection.
What's inside?
As with any consumer-facing cosmetic product, it is subject to the Fair Packaging and Labelling Act.FPLAThe relevant regulations implemented, eye cosmeticsIngredients must be listed on the label.If you want to avoid certain ingredients, or compare the ingredients of different brands, you can check the ingredient list.
If a cosmetic product sold to consumers does not have ingredient labeling, it will be considered...Misbranded labelingThis is illegal in interstate commerce. For some very small packages displayed in tightly separated shelves, there may be a tear-off ingredient label attached next to the shelf.
What color did you use?
In the United States,Color additivesThe use of pigments is strictly regulated. Many pigments are approved for use in general cosmetics, and...NoApproved for use around the eyes. The FDA's import alert for cosmetics containing illegal pigments lists several eye care products.
Stay away from kohl—and don't let your children come into contact with kohl!
One color additive that deserves particular attention iskohl(Also known as al-kahl, kajal, or surma). Kohl is used in some parts of the world to enhance the appearance of the eyes, but in the United States...Not approved for use in cosmeticsKohl is typically composed of heavy metal salts, such as antimony and lead. One might assume that kohl, given its traditional use in some areas, must be safe; however, there are reports of kohl being used in combination with...Childhood lead poisoningConnect them.
An FDA import alert lists three main reasons for detaining imported Kohl products:
Contains unsafe coloring additivesThis makes the product adulterated/unqualified.
Labeling false claimsThe product is "FDA Approved".
Ingredient labeling missing。
Some eye makeup labels use the word "kohl" only to refer to the shade number and do not necessarily mean the product contains actual kohl. If the product label is compliant, you can check whether the pigments listed on the label are on the FDA's list of pigments approved for use in cosmetics and confirm that they are indeed listed.Can be used in the eye area。
Want to dye your eyelashes?
Permanent eyelash and eyebrow dyes have caused serious eye damage, including blindness. The FDA has permitted the use of silver nitrate.As a pigment additive, usedFor coloring eyebrows and eyelashes in cosmetics intended for professional use only**.
Its usage restrictions include: in viscous gel products, the maximum silver nitrate content is [not specified].4% (by weight)Cosmetics containing silver nitrateNoApplicable toPeople under 16 years oldIt should not be applied more than1 minuteIn addition, these productsNoDistributed or sold directly to consumers. The FDA has also issued an import alert for eyelash and eyebrow dyes containing coal tar colors.
Want to use false eyelashes or eyelash extensions?
The FDA classifies false eyelashes, eyelash extensions (grafting/eyelash extensions), and their adhesives as cosmetics, and therefore must comply with cosmetic safety and labeling requirements. False eyelashes and eyelash extensions require adhesives for fixation. Please remember that the eyelids are very delicate, and allergic reactions, irritation, or other damage to the eye area can be particularly troublesome. Please check the ingredients before using these adhesives.
Adverse reactions occurred?
If consumers experience adverse reactions to eye makeup, they should first contact a medical professional. The FDA also encourages consumers to report adverse reactions to cosmetics.
Safety Checklist
If you use eye makeup, the FDA recommends following these safety tips:
If any eye cosmetic causes irritation, discontinue use immediately; if irritation persists, seek medical attention.
If you have an eye infection or inflammation around your eyes, avoid using eye makeup; wait for the affected area to heal. Discard all eye makeup you used during your infection.
Be aware that bacteria on your hands can cause infection if they get into your eyes; please wash your hands before use.
Make sure any tools that come into contact with the eye area are clean.
Don't share cosmetics; other people's bacteria may be harmful to you.
Do not allow cosmetics to accumulate dust or become contaminated with dirt/dirt; keep the containers clean.
Avoid using outdated eye makeup; manufacturers usually recommend using mascara after purchase.2–4 monthsthrow away.
Discard dried-out mascara; do not dilute it with saliva or water. Oral bacteria can grow in mascara and cause infection; adding water can also introduce bacteria and dilute the preservative system used to inhibit microbial growth.
Do not store cosmetics in environments above 85°F (approximately 29.4°C). For example, cosmetics left in a hot car for extended periods are more likely to experience preservative degradation or product spoilage.
When applying or removing makeup, be careful not to scratch your eyes or other sensitive areas. Never apply or remove makeup in a moving vehicle.
Avoid using cosmetics not specifically designed for the eye area around your eyes. For example, do not use a lip liner to draw eyeliner; this may expose your eyes to contaminants from your mouth or pigment additives that are not approved for use in the eye area.
Avoid using pigment additives that are not approved for use around the eyes, such as "permanent" eyelash dyes and kohl. Pay particular attention to keeping children away from kohl, as there have been reports linking it to lead poisoning in children.