Yes, this can happen, but it's the result of keeping mascara too long. The microbes don't arrive in the mascara itself. According to a study in Optometry, bacteria that are naturally present in the eyes can be transferred into mascara via the wand. When the researchers tested mascaras, microbes were present in 33 percent of the products tested.

And these weren't innocent little bacteria; in most cases the bacteria were found to be staphylococcus or Streptococcus. Fungi were also found. Mascara contains preservatives that prevent bacteria from breeding. Typically, mascara is considered to be safe for three months, the amount of time the preservatives are designed to last. However, the Optometry study tested mascara samples that were less than three months old.

An additional warning for all of us who keep our mascara in our purses; heat will quickly degrade the preservatives, allowing bacteria to proliferate faster. A few tips for mascara safety:

• Store mascara in a cool place.
• Toss mascara after a few months and replace.
• When applying mascara, stop at two coats. (Multiple layers can plug the oil glands along the edge of eyelids, causing sties.
• Don't ever apply mascara in the car; according to opthalmologists, you'd be surprised how many women arrive in their offices with scratched (and possibly infected) corneas from poking themselves in the eye.

Good luck ladies and be careful! Let your radiant beauty shine with Stellar Skin.