THREE cosmetics - Nude by Nature Liquid Mineral Foundation, Australian Lavender Essentials Eye Cream and its Face Up, the Essential Moisturiser - have been recalled after testing revealed dangerous levels of microbial contamination.

The products, which include various skin tones of Nude's foundation, were detected as part of an Australian Competition and Consumer Commission product safety survey.

Microbiological hazards occur when cosmetic products are contaminated by micro-organisms such as bacteria, mould and yeast.

The ACCC surveyed 115 cosmetic products found in shops and online retailers, which were sent for microbiological testing against internationally set recommended limits.

media_camera Australian Lavender Essentials Eye Cream is another of the cosmetics recalled by the ACCC. Picture: Supplied

Suppliers agreed to the recalls after the three products were shown to contain unacceptable levels of contamination, ACCC deputy chair Delia Rickard said.

"Microbial contamination can cause diseases and serious infections,'' she said.

"The biggest concern with these particular cosmetic products is that they are intended for use around sensitive areas, such as the eyes and lips.

"Skin with acne, cuts or abrasions, or a weak immune system, can also make the wearer more vulnerable to infections and diseases from the germs.''

The ACCC urged cosmetics makers to be vigilant about hygienic manufacturing practices and the effectiveness of the preservatives they use in their products.

media_camera The ACCC also recalled Nude by Nature's Liquid Mineral Foundation. Picture: Supplied

"Consumers should be able to rely on the safety of products that they apply directly to their skin, which is often on a daily basis over long periods of time,'' Ms Rickard said.

"If you have one of these recalled cosmetic products, stop using it immediately and return it to the point of sale for a full refund.''

The ACCC warned consumers to stop using a product immediately and seek medical advice if they have an allergic reaction or it causes irritation, keep cosmetics well protected and containers clean, don't dilute with water and don't share or use cosmetics past the expiry date.