Let’s be honest. Most of us don’t know exact makeup expiration dates. You may know a few of them but for the most part, you probably just do what most people do and use your makeup until it’s gone. While it’s great when you can finish your entire product, sometimes you need to toss it earlier because it’s expired. This article may inspire you to clean out your makeup bag.
1 Swap out Cosmetic Sponges Monthly
Did you know you should swap out your cosmetic sponges monthly? I’d never really thought about how often they should be tossed but it makes sense. Cosmetic sponges touch every part of your face and can spread bacteria as you blend your makeup. They’re a breeding ground for germs. Toss them every 30 days and you may see clearer skin.
Frequently asked questions
2 Toss Your Mascara Every 3 Months
This’s the makeup expiration rule that most of you are probably aware of. It’s the one you hear the most about. If you’re a mascara queen like I am then this’s one you never have to worry about because a tube of mascara won’t last that long. But if you go a little lighter on mascara then be sure to toss it every 3 months. And anytime you have an eye infection such as pink eye, it needs to go immediately.
3 Eyeliner Should Go at 6 Months
Were you aware of this one? Eyeliner should be tossed every 6 months. It makes sense since eye makeup can harbor germs. Eyeliner and mascara are 2 types of makeup it’s best to never share. Knowing that eyeliner only has a 6 month shelf life is motivation to not buy too many at one time.
4 Lipstick Should Be Tossed at 2 Years
Lipstick should be tossed every 2 years. If you’ve been building a lipstick collection, this isn’t great news. And there’re some times when it’s best to toss it before the 2 year mark. Anytime you’ve had a fever blister, you need to toss your lipstick. I always toss mine if I get a cold or other respiratory illness, as well. I figure it’s better to buy a new tube of lipstick than get sick all over again.
5 Foundation Varies between 1-2 Years
When I was researching makeup expiration dates, I ran into conflicting reports on when you should toss your foundation. There were varying guidelines between one and two years. So here’s what you can take from that. You don’t want to keep foundation longer than 2 years. And if you see any variation in color, smell, texture or consistency then toss it before the 2 year mark.
6 Blushes and Eyeshadows Can Go 2 Years
Powder products such as blush and eyeliner have a two year shelf life. Again, if you’ve got a slight addiction to purchasing these products then this may be an issue for you. However, buying less so that you can use it before it expires can give you more money to spend elsewhere, like on clothes. Figuring out what shades work best for you can help you cut back your eyeshadow purchases. Then you won’t be constantly shopping for eyeshadow, trying to figure out what works.
7 Trash Your Nail Polish at 2 Years
This’s sad, isn’t it? If you love nail polish like I do then you hate to see it go in the trash. Nail polish is one of those products that shows when the life of it is over. It starts to separate or thicken up so it doesn’t apply correctly. To avoid paying for more nail polish than you’ll use, you might want to consider purchasing mini bottles.
Following recommended makeup expiration date can help you have healthier skin. Which expiration date was a surprise to you? I’d love to hear your answers.
