The Ultimate Guide to Makeup Expiration Dates: What to Keep, What to Toss

Are you guilty of holding onto your makeup for too long? Believe it or not, there is an expiration date on all that foundation and blush collecting dust in your bathroom drawer. Unfortunately, using expired makeup can lead to skin problems, from irritation to infection. So if you’re ready to finally get organized and learn what products have the longest shelf life, read on! This guide will break down everything you need to know about makeup expiration dates. Plus, we’ll tell you which products are worth investing in so you can keep your look fresh for longer.

Shelf life of makeup & cosmetics

We all have that one thing in our makeup bag that we just can’t let go of. Whether it’s an old mascara tube or a powder compact sitting in the back of your drawer for years, we’ve all held on to something past its expiration date. But is it safe to continue using expired makeup?

The short answer is no. Like food, makeup has a shelf life, and using expired products can be dangerous for your skin. Expired makeup can cause irritation, breakouts, and even infections.

So how can you tell if your makeup has expired? And what should you do with products that are past their prime? Keep reading for the ultimate guide to makeup expiration dates.

As a general rule of thumb, most makeup products should be replaced every 6 to 12 months. This may seem like a short amount of time, but it’s important to remember that makeup is a breeding ground for bacteria.

Products used around the eyes, such as mascara and eyeliner, have a shorter lifespan and should be replaced more frequently than other products. This is because they contact a sensitive area of the face that is more susceptible to infection.

Here are some other general guidelines to follow when it comes to replacing your makeup:

• Foundation, concealer, powder: 1 year
• Blush, bronzer: 1 year
• Eye shadow: 2 years
• Mascara: 3 months
• Eyeliner: 6 months
• Lipstick, lip gloss: 2 years
• Lip liner: 1 year

Ways to extend the life of your cosmetic products

It’s no secret that most cosmetic products have a limited shelf life. Even if you never use them, they will eventually go bad. But there are a few things you can do to extend the life of your cosmetics and get the most out of your investment.

1. Store your cosmetics in a cool, dry place. Heat and humidity can cause your makeup to melt or clump, so it’s best to keep it stored in a cool, dry environment. If possible, store your cosmetics in the fridge; this will help them last even longer.
2. Avoid using expired products. This one seems obvious, but it’s worth repeating: using expired makeup can be dangerous to your health. Not only can expired products cause skin irritation, but they can also harbor bacteria that can lead to serious infections. So make sure to check the expiration dates on your cosmetics before using them and ditch anything past its prime.
3. Take care of your makeup brushes. Your makeup brushes are one of the most important tools in your cosmetic arsenal, so it’s important to take good care of them. Wash them regularly with soap and water, and replace them every few months to ensure that they’re always in top condition.