• Manufacturers of these cosmetics compromise on the quality, longevity and stability test. During these tests the products are put under extreme conditions and observed with regards to quality.
  
  
• Manufacturers also use extra perfumes  to make the product attractive for the consumer. And excess perfume causes acne.
  
  
• Using cheap eyeliner or kohl can make your eyes water. Sometimes these products even cause irritation.
  
  
• Besides drying very fast, the cheap nail polishes start smelling and even changes colour.
  
  
• Sometimes these cosmetics don't suit your skin and cause allergies.
  
  
• Some of the fancy looking nail polishes that you get at throwaway prices don't have a date of manufacture on the bottle. Most of these cosmetics have crossed their expiry date.
  
  
• Manufacturers also use a creamy base to sell the product. If you have oily skin, this creamy base blocks the oil glands and results in breakouts.
  
  
• A cheap skin-lightening product may contain lightening agents that haven't been tested and may cause pigmentation. It may also leave dark patches on your skin.
  
  
• Most of these products don't mention the ingredients used in them. In case of any side effects, this makes it difficult for a dermatologist to treat your skin.
  
  
• Foundation and blushes contain zinc oxide, which is not harmful for skin. But a cheap brand might use eccess  colour in these products, which may cause allergies.
  
  
• Lipsticks that have passed their expiration date could cause discolouration of the lips, swellings or peeling of the skin.
  
  
• Severe rash and redness are some of the most common skin problems caused by using untested cosmetics.

Avoid these Side Effects

• Always use good quality brands.
• Make sure the products have been tested.
• Always check the date of expiry, irrespective of the brand.
• Always conduct a patch test on your forearm to ensure that you are not allergic to the product.

(With inputs from: Aparna Santhanam, Consultant, Kaya Skin Clinic, Mumbai)