Beware of cosmetic serums mistaken for eye drops, South Korea warns consumers

Consumers are urged to exercise caution after a series of accidents involving cosmetic serums and ampoules being mistaken for eye drops. The Korea Consumer Agency has recorded 21 incidents since January 2021 where individuals have mistakenly applied these cosmetic products to their eyes.

The majority of these cases, approximately 19%, involved cosmetic products. One recent incident this year saw a person suffer eye damage after using a skin-moisturizing serum as eye drops. Such cosmetics often contain surfactants, which help ingredients mix, and preservatives to prevent microbial growth.

When these ingredients come into direct contact with the eyes, they can cause irritation, a burning sensation, a feeling of foreignness, and toxic conjunctivitis. In severe cases, they can even damage the corneal epithelium. An investigation by the consumer agency into major online platforms revealed that serums and ampoules from four different companies were sold in containers that closely resemble those used for eye drops, exacerbating the risk of confusion.