The Shelf Life Of Makeup

When Is It Time To Toss?

Makeup has a best before date just like many other products. But every cosmetic is different, so it’s important to know the shelf life of makeup because using products that are old or expired can lead to skin problems. For clear healthy skin, toss when it’s time.

So just how long does makeup last? Some cosmetics last longer than others. As a rule of thumb, anything that comes in contact with your eyes should be replaced often. Other cosmetics need replacing less frequently. But anytime any of your makeup changes in appearance or starts to smell funny, don’t waste any time in getting rid of it.

Mascara and liquid eyeliner have the shortest shelf life. Experts recommend replacing these products every 3 to 6 months; sooner if you get an eye infection. Pencil eyeliner can be kept for up to a year, if stored properly with the cap on, and regularly sharpened.

Anytime you end up with an eye infection, regardless of the cause, toss all your eye makeup and start again. Otherwise you run the risk of re-infecting yourself over and over again.

Always use quality skin care products to avoid skin problems. The SkinStore.com carries a full line of cosmetics and skin care products from all the major skin care companies.

How long should you keep your foundation? Well, that depends on whether your foundation has a pump, or you are dipping your fingers into the bottle. Foundation stays fresh longer with a pump and is good for about a year. But if you are dipping, toss every 6 to 8 months, especially if your skin is prone to breaking out.
 
Since you probably change foundation color from summer to winter, it makes sense to replace your foundation that often as well.

Powdered products like eyeshadow, powder, or blush are long lasting. You can use these for about 2 years, unless you notice a change in color sooner. Be sure to use a makeup brush instead of your fingers to apply.

Lipstick is also a relatively long lasting product. Most tubes of lipstick will last for 2 or 3 years before they need replacing. But if it starts to smell bad, you know you’ve kept it too long.

You can use nail polish for up to about 2 years. Always shake well before applying. If nail polish becomes clumpy or thick, replace sooner.

In general, natural makeup products have a shorter shelf life than regular cosmetics because they don’t contain preservatives.

And what about sponges and brushes used to apply makeup?  Sponges should be washed weekly using a mild detergent and discarded monthly. Brushes need to be thoroughly washed every 2 or 3 months and replaced every 2 or 3 years.

So pay attention to the shelf life of makeup for clear healthy skin.