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Poison Center Helpline 1-800-222-1222

Not sure what to do? Have an urgent question?

If your child is having symptoms or you don't know the exact substance or amount swallowed, call the Poison Center Hotline at 1-800-222-1222. This call is free and confidential.

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My Child Ate Makeup

cosemetics
Makeup is Minimally toxic .

If your child ate makeup, give them a few sips of water and monitor for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea or coughing.

If your child ate hair dye or other semi-permanent pigments, call IPC now at 1-800-222-1222.

What to know: Makeup

  • Makeup or cosmetics include lipstick, mascara, foundation, eye shadow, eye liner, concealer, lip liner, lip balm, blush and more.

Toxicity Level

What are toxicity levels?

My child ate makeup. Is makeup toxic if swallowed? 

Types of makeup are minimally toxic if ingested in small amounts, such as a taste or a lick. This may cause mild upset stomach.

Cosmetic items with semi-permanent pigment, like hair dye, eyelash tint or eyeliner tattoo ink, may be more toxic. If your child ate any of these items, call IPC at 1-800-222-1222.

Symptoms of Poisoning

If your child is not having symptoms, give them a few sips of water and watch for vomiting or diarrhea.

If your child experiences persistent or continued vomiting, diarrhea or coughing, call IPC immediately at 1-800-222-1222.

Eye Exposure

  • Makeup may cause irritation if exposed to eyes.   

  • If your child got makeup in their eyes, rinse by pouring clean, lukewarm water across the affected eye(s) for 15 minutes.  

For more instructions, please see our page on eye exposure information.

Have an urgent question or need more help?

Don't hesitate to call IPC at

1-800-222-1222

This call is free and confidential.

Poison Center HelplineCalls are free and confidential.

  1. In Case of Emergency

    Call 911 if someone is unconscious or is having difficulty breathing.

  2. Remain Calm

    Most poison emergencies can be resolved quickly over the phone.

  3. Call the Helpline

    Call 1-800-222-1222 if you are concerned that you or someone else has been exposed to a potentially harmful substance.