Makeup has an expiration date which you should follow to make sure you're only using products that are completely safe to use. Here's a quick, general guideline for when you should toss old makeup and get replacing!
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1. Foundation
With liquid foundation, the consistency can thicken due to oil rising to the surface over time. Another problem it faces a higher chance of bacteria growth because we're constantly putting our hands in the product, leading to things like breakouts and irritation to the skin.
Powder based foundation doesn't face the same issues because there's no water for bacteria to grow on, although certain ingredients become harder to blend over time and begin to break down.
Toss time:
Liquid foundation - 6 months
Powder foundation - 2 years
2. Concealer
A typical sign that a concealer has gone bad is when the colour has started to change from when it was first brought. This can lead to irritation and breakouts when applied to the skin itself.
You can prevent this by stocking up on a new one when it's time, especially for a liquid concealer which should be tossed sooner.
Toss time:
Liquid concealer - 6 months
Powder concealer - 2 years
Frequently asked questions
3. Powder
Powders generally last quite a long time, although there's a risk of bacteria growth due to the small amounts of water from some of the ingredients involved.
It's a good idea to check the consistency and texture of the powder and toss if it's looks abnormal or different in any way.
Toss time: 2 years
4. Mascara
It's no surprise that mascaras are dark and wet - the perfect environment for bacteria to brew. Also, pumping your mascara will cause it to dry out quicker due to the exposure of air. You can avoid this by simply twisting it and wiping off the excess on the side of the tube before applying.
Toss time: 6 months
5. Lipstick and Lipliner
The water content in lipsticks can often invite bacteria, as well as leading them to dry out over time. On the other hand, pencil lipliners can be sharpened and the previous surface is replaced with a new one, leading them to last longer.
Toss time:
Lipstick - 2 years
Lip gloss - 2 years
Pencil lipliner - 2 years
7. Eye Shadow and Eyeliner
Similar to mascara, bacteria will be quick to gather in liquid eyeliner tubes while the product dries out. Pencils are better because you can continue to sharpen them and get a clean, fresh surface to work with each time.
Toss time:
Liquid eyeliner - 3 months
Pencil eyeliner - 2 years
Cream eye shadow - 6 months
Powder eye shadow - 2 years
8. Blush
There's a risk of bacteria growth if the blush happens to get wet or left in damp conditions, so it's best to keep it in a dark, dry place at room temperature along with the rest of your makeup.
It's a good idea to check the texture every now and again, as product that's stiff and hard to move is probably best left untouched and tossed.
Toss time:
Powder blush: 2 years
Cream blush: 2 years