Expiration Date for Makeup

Hey everybody!

As an aspiring makeup lover, I've learned a lot of things I never would have guessed about makeup. For example, makeup, just like food, has an expiration date! Some products come with nifty little symbols that tell you how long they're good for.

However, not everything has it written on the packaging. So, I have a few general guidelines to help you know how long everything should last!

Eyes

Eyeshadows generally last up to 3 years, but only if they're powdered. Cream eyeshadows last only about a year to a year and a half, because the liquid in the products can store bacteria.

Eyeliners last up to 1 year in pencil form. Pencil liners will usually harden or crumble after they've expired, so that's a good indication. Gel or liquid liners last around 3-6 months.

Mascara lasts anywhere from 2-6 months. It's best to discard them after they start to flake, dry out, or if you develop an eye infection. Also, avoid "pumping" your wand in and out. This allows air to come in, and bacteria to breed inside the tube.

Face

Foundations last from 12 to 18 months, depending on whether they're water or oil based. Oil based foundations tend to last longer. Also, foundations stored in a tube or pump last longer than those stored in jar, because exposure to the air brings in more bacteria.

Concealers last the same amount of time as foundation, from 12-18 months.

Powders, including blush, bronzer, and highlighter can last up to a year, while their cream counterparts only last around 6 months.

Lips

Lipsticks can last up to 2 or 3 years. You can make them last longer by sticking them in the fridge! The cold environment helps slow the production of bacteria.

Lipliners are much like eyeliners, they last up to 1 year and tend to crumble when they're expired. Lip glosses last about 12-18 months, and pumping the wand should be avoided here too.

Nails

Nail polish lasts up to 2 years. After a polish has gone bad, it tends to become thick and gooey. Separation of the oils is normal, especially if it's been stored for a while. However, if the oils don't mix again after being shaken, it's time to toss.

While you don't have to immediately discard something once it reaches its expiration date, as the product gets older its best to look out for signs that it's gone bad. If a product starts to smell, change color, or have a different consistency, it's best to play it safe and get rid of it.

Hope this helped! Until next time,
<3 Lucero