Many people offer to donate their old or gently used cosmetics. Health Safety Canada included a segment why cosmetics should not be resold at a garage sale:
Cosmetics – Used, old, or damaged cosmetics should never be sold. These products may contain harmful bacteria that could cause skin rashes or lead to infections. Additionally, second-hand cosmetics may be missing required labelling information, such as ingredients, warnings, and directions for safe use. A cosmetic is defined as a beauty preparation (make-up, perfume, skin cream, nail polish) or grooming aid (toothpaste, soap, shampoo, shaving cream, deodorant) used for cleansing, improving or altering the complexion, skin, hair or teeth.
Many of our makeover participants have HIV/AIDS and/or Hep C. Although we are grateful for community support, we can not accept donations of old or gently used cosmetics.