Many times we visit retailers like Walmart or Target and see a clearance section where we can find really great deals on beauty products. Most of these are products are expiring or near the date, they expire. Makeup is not cheap, which is why it’s so tempting to get those deals, but is it a good idea to buy expired makeup? Or better yet, how long should you keep using your makeup products after purchase?
Throwing away makeup that you’ve had for a long time can be difficult, especially if you love it and if you haven’t used it all up. A 2013 study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that 70% of women in the study used some type of expired product. Researchers sampled their eye makeup and found that 67% had potentially harmful levels of microorganisms, which can cause bacterial skin infections.
Many times we use old brushes to apply our blush or foundation and when you keep getting acne or red spots on your face, this might be the bacteria. Most moisturizers have expiration dates on the packaging, which is a good thing because most makeup does not. So how do you know how long you should keep makeup?
There are things you could look for if your makeup isn’t stamped with an expiration date. If a product is discolored, smells funny, runny, lumpy, has a strange color, looks dry when it’s not supposed to or your skin has a reaction to it, more than likely it’s expired.
Products that contain water as one of the first ingredients listed in the back have the shortest life span after opening. Water encourages bacteria to grow and if you have plant extracts, those are more likely to go bad sooner.
According to PaulasChoice.com, these are the rules of thumb for these products:
Makeup
- Mascara (regular or waterproof), liquid, pencil or gel eyeliners: 4 to 6 months (always toss out dry mascara—never add water to extend its life)
- Cream, Liquid or Stick Foundations or Concealers: 6 months to 1 year
- Powder-based products (including mineral makeup): 2-3 years
- Lipsticks, Lip Gloss, & Lip Pencils: 2-3 years
Skincare
- Cleansers: 1 year
- Toners: 6 months to 1 year
- BHA or AHA Exfoliants: 1 year
- Facial or Body Moisturizers and Serums: 6 months to 1 year
- Lip Balms: 1 year
Make sure you practice good hygiene with your makeup products. This means storing your makeup in a clean place, washing your hands, tightening caps, etc. You may also want to write the date of purchase on your makeup, or send yourself reminders on your phone in order to know when you should throw away these products. Also, be mindful of humidity and heat because these can cause your beauty products to go bad quicker. If you develop any type of reaction, use common sense and just throw it away!