When was the last time you replaced your mascara? Eyeliner? Lipstick? If you can’t remember, it might be time to dump it. Unlike food products, which are required to show an expiration date, makeup products are not required to list it on the packaging.
As we use makeup products, we expose them to brushes, our fingers, the air, and sunlight. This exposure causes a slow growth of bacteria. Because of this bacteria, expired makeup products can cause irritation, infections, breakouts, or simply stop working well. If you can’t remember when you bought something, check for odd smells or discoloration. Sometimes expired products will streak or change colors slightly. If you notice anything different, it’s probably best to discard the product.
To keep track of expiration dates, write down dates of purchase on a piece of paper in your makeup bag, or write the date with sharpie on the packaging itself.
Makeup Expiration Dates
- Mascara – 3 months
- Liquid Eyeliners – 3 months
- Pencil Eyeliner/Lipliner – 2 years
- Liquid Foundation – 6 months
- Lipgloss – 1 year
- Lipstick – 2 years
- Concealer – 1 year
- Powders (Blushes/Bronzers/Eyeshadow/Foundation) – 2 years
- Creams (Eyeshadow/Blushes) – 6 months
- Nail Polish – 2 years
After a recent eye infection, I have gone through all of my makeup, and dumped most of it. I didn’t realize that some of these products expire so quickly! With future purchases, I will be writing down the date of purchase to keep better track of the longevity of my makeup.
Whether you wear makeup everyday or just on special occasions, take care of your health by cleaning out your makeup bag regularly. This simple step will keep your eyes and skin free of irritation and infection.
