Is it dangerous to inhale the dust from facial powder? —P.C., via e-mail

That's unclear. People exposed to very large amounts of those powders, such as workers in manufacturing plants, may be at higher risk of lung disease and certain cancers. But there's little research on the amount people breathe in while applying makeup. If you're concerned, look up potential hazardous cosmetic ingredients at the Environmental Working Group's Cosmetic Safety Database or at www.GreenerChoices.org.

Read more on the risky chemicals that could be lurking in your cosmetics.