QUESTION:
I ran out of my favorite lip gloss and bought a replacement on the Internet from a private party. When it arrived, I could tell that the package had never been opened or used before, but when I opened it, it smelled "funny." Is it okay to use it?
ASK LIFESTYLE RESPONDS:
Always go with your gut instinct. If it smells funny to you, honor that sense and ask for a replacement. If it was a private party, that hostess has most likely received credit for your purchase and she can contact the seller to obtain a fresher product for you. As a consumer, this provides a good lesson in buying anything from anywhere – know the guarantees and return policy – caveat emptor! Good luck! – Helen Harlow