Make-up and beauty products most definitely expire at some point. While much of it does last for several years, there comes a time when it’s past its prime and would be better off in the trash than on your face. However, it isn’t always easy to figure out when the time has come. In general, if the product changes texture or color, it’s time to toss it. Likewise, if it has a funky smell, you should get rid of it. In the meantime, here is the expected life span of many of your favorite beauty products.
1 Powder Make-up
Pretty much anything that is powdery falls into this category. That includes eyeshadow, blush, bronzer and pressed face powder. Generally, these are the items that will last the longest so don’t worry if they look like the quantity is far too much to use up before it goes bad. You can expect powdery make-up to last for around two years before it can become a problem.
Frequently asked questions
2 Mascara and Liner
Eye make-up that is wet has the shortest life span. This is because it’s used near your eyes so the risk of an infection is far greater. When you have mascara or eyeliner that you use regularly, be sure you are replacing it every three months or so. Beyond that time frame, your chances of irritation or a flat out infection are higher. Write the date of purchase on the tube or pencil so you can keep track.
3 Liquids and Creams
Your liquid foundation and creamy blush and eyeshadow products last a surprisingly long time. So don’t worry about scrambling to use them up quickly. You have a full eight months before they belong in the garbage can. If you’re a person who only rarely uses these products, see if you can find them in tiny sizes so you aren’t wasting product or money.
4 Lip Color
Lipstick is designed to last and it will continue to be good for about one year after you open it. Fortunately for most lipstick wearers, it’s gone long before the 12 month mark, right? If you notice water beads on your product, it’s probably time to get rid of it and choose something new. Some experts suggest keeping your tubes in the fridge to make them last longer. Lip gloss tends to last only about six months as opposed to a year for stick colors.
5 Nail Polish
Nail polish generally lasts for around one year, but may hang on for two years or more. Again, keeping it in the fridge is said to make it last longer. Using polish past its prime isn’t likely to hurt you, but it gets gloopy and globby and is hard to apply. That means messes, smudges and caked on polish that doesn’t look good. Isn’t it worth it to spend a few bucks and buy something new? I thinks so.
6 Concealer
Concealer is a fabulous invention that has saved us all from a blemish nightmare, right? It is perfect for masking discoloration and acne. However, since you do use it on such things, it should be replaced every six months or so to prevent germs and bacteria from worsening breakouts or leading to new problems. Buy tiny tubes if you only use a dab now and then.
7 Cleanser
A good facial cleanser is ideal for ensuring healthy and lovely skin. Most are good for about one year before they expire. The good news is that if you are washing your face every day like you are supposed to, the cleanser will be gone long before it goes bad.
Sunscreen, perfume and toners are other things that expire after about one year. Were you surprised to learn that your products aren’t timeless? Don’t worry – your fabulous good looks still are. Which products do you need to toss right now?
