Did you know that makeup has an expiration date? Yes, every cosmetic product comes with a shelf life. The number followed by an “M” on the packaging indicates how many months the product is safe to use after it’s been opened.
Once that time has passed, the product can become ineffective or even harmful to your skin. It’s crucial to dispose of expired makeup, especially if you notice any unpleasant odors or if the product causes irritation or discomfort.
Additionally, certain makeup items should never be shared. Products like mascara, lipstick, and eye pencils can harbor bacteria and lead to infections, so it’s best to keep them to yourself.
It’s also essential to discard any eye products, such as mascara and eyeliner, that you used during an eye infection, as these can cause the infection to return.
When to replace makeup products
It’s essential to keep track of how long you’ve had your makeup products after opening them to ensure they’re safe and effective. Here’s a handy guide on the lifespan of common makeup items.
Mascara
One of the main reasons why it’s crucial to replace mascara regularly is due to the risk of bacterial growth. Mascara wands can easily pick up bacteria from your eyelashes and skin, and then transfer it back into the tube each time you use it. This can lead to eye infections and other issues, so it’s best to replace your mascara every three to six months to prevent any potential problems.
Liquid eyeliner
Just like mascara, liquid eyeliner should be tossed after about six months for hygiene reasons. Just like mascara, liquid eyeliner can harbor bacteria over time, especially if you’re using it on your waterline or tightlining your eyes. To avoid any potential infections, it’s best to replace your liquid eyeliner regularly.
Concealer
When it comes to concealer, the shelf life is a bit longer, but it’s still important to keep an eye on the texture and smell of the product. Generally, concealer can last up to a year before it starts to break down and become less effective. If you notice a change in the texture or smell of your concealer, it’s time to toss it and invest in a new one.
Foundation
Liquid foundations can degrade over time due to exposure to air, sunlight, and bacteria. As a result, they can become less effective at providing coverage and may even start to cause breakouts or irritation on the skin. To ensure that your foundation is working at its best, it’s important to replace it after a year of use.
Powders
Face powder and setting powder are two other makeup products that can last up to two years if stored properly. These powders are less likely to degrade over time compared to liquid products, but it’s still important to keep an eye out for any changes in texture or color.
Powdered eyeshadow
Similarly, powdered eyeshadows can remain effective for up to two years as well. Cream formulas, on the other hand, tend to have a shorter shelf life and may need to be replaced sooner. Cream eyeshadows can dry out and become less effective over time, so it’s best to keep an eye on their texture and consistency.
Lipsticks
Lipstick can last a while. With proper care and storage, lipstick can last up to two years. However, it’s important to keep an eye out for any changes in scent or texture. If your lipstick starts to smell off or feels different on your lips, it may be time to toss it and invest in a new one.
Pencil eyeliners
Pencil eyeliners are another makeup product that can last up to two years if properly cared for. Just remember to sharpen them regularly to maintain hygiene and prevent bacteria buildup. Sharpening your pencil eyeliner not only helps to keep it clean but also ensures that you’re getting a precise application every time.
Why you should throw out old makeup
Old makeup may seem harmless, but using expired makeup products can actually do more harm than good to your skin. Let’s take a look at three reasons why you should do away with old and expired makeup.
Bacterial Growth and Skin Health
Each time you open and apply your makeup, it’s exposed to air and bacteria, which multiply over time. Using old makeup can introduce these germs to your skin, leading to breakouts, irritation, and even infections. This is especially risky for products used near sensitive areas like the eyes and lips, where bacteria thrive. Throwing out expired makeup helps minimize these risks and keeps your skin healthier.
Chemical Breakdown and Toxicity
Makeup contains preservatives that help keep it safe for use, but these chemicals degrade over time. When makeup expires, its ingredients can break down, potentially becoming toxic and harmful to your skin. Applying expired makeup puts you at risk of irritation and other skin issues caused by these deteriorated chemicals.
Minimizing Clutter and Maximizing Space
For makeup enthusiasts, holding onto old products can quickly create unnecessary clutter. Tossing expired makeup not only frees up space for new favorites but also makes it easier to find what you need, keeping your collection organized and up-to-date.
Signs it’s time to throw out makeup
While it is important to know the shelf life of your makeup and follow the recommended expiration date, it is also essential to be aware of the signs that indicate your makeup has gone bad. Sometimes, makeup can expire way before the indicated time, especially if it has been stored improperly or exposed to heat and humidity.
Change in colour
One of the first signs that your makeup has gone bad is a change in color. If you notice that your foundation, eyeshadow, or lipstick has changed color from its original shade, it is time to let it go. This change in color is usually due to the degradation of chemicals and preservatives in the product. Using makeup that has changed color can cause irritation and skin reactions, so it’s best to toss it out.
Change in consistency
Another sign to look out for is a change in consistency. Expired makeup can become clumpy, separated, or dried out. If you notice that your mascara is no longer smooth and easy to apply, or your foundation has become thick and cakey, it’s time to say goodbye to these products.
Change in odour
A change in odour is a definite indicator that your makeup has gone bad. Makeup products should not have a strong, unpleasant smell. If you notice a strange or foul scent coming from your makeup, it is best to discard it immediately. Using makeup with a bad odour can lead to skin infections and other skin issues.
Tips to extend makeup shelf life
1. Store your makeup products in a cool, dry place
Heat and humidity can cause makeup products to deteriorate faster, leading to changes in texture, color, and even potentially harmful bacterial growth. Storing your products in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, can help preserve their shelf life.
2. Clean your makeup brushes and applicators regularly
Dirty brushes and applicators can transfer bacteria and germs onto your makeup products, causing them to degrade faster. Make it a habit to clean your brushes and applicators regularly with a gentle brush cleanser or a mild shampoo to keep them free from buildup.
3. Avoid dipping dirty brushes into your makeup products
If you’re in the habit of dipping your brushes into your makeup to pick up product, you could be transferring oils, bacteria, and other impurities into your products. Instead, use clean brushes or applicators to pick up product and avoid contaminating your makeup.
4. Keep your makeup products tightly closed
Exposure to air and light can cause certain makeup products to dry out or oxidize, leading to a shorter shelf life. Make sure to always tightly close the lids of your products after use to prevent unnecessary exposure.
5. Use a spatula or clean fingers to apply cream products
If you’re using cream-based products like foundation or concealer, avoid dipping your fingers directly into the product to avoid introducing bacteria. Instead, use a clean spatula or your fingers to scoop out the product and apply it to your face.
In conclusion, throwing out old makeup is essential for maintaining healthy skin and preventing infections. Regularly replacing your makeup products and avoiding sharing items with others can help keep your skin clear and free from harm. So the next time you see that neglected makeup product in your bag, don’t hesitate to toss it out for the sake of your skin’s health.
