FAQs
The easiest way to know when to throw an eye shadow or concealer away is to look at the packaging. Most come with a tiny image of an open-lid pot with a number like “12m,” which means the product has a lifespan of twelve months. Those are the makeup expiration dates that you should look.
How do you know when to throw away makeup? ›
The easiest way to know when to throw an eye shadow or concealer away is to look at the packaging. Most come with a tiny image of an open-lid pot with a number like “12m,” which means the product has a lifespan of twelve months. Those are the makeup expiration dates that you should look.
How do you know when makeup goes bad? ›
Another way to tell if your product has reached the end of its shelf life is by examining the texture before application. If your liquid foundation has thickened, or your powder foundation is exceptionally crumbly, it's most likely expired. The color is off.
When should you replace makeup? ›
You should toss products that: Start to clump like mascara or eyeliner. Change in consistency like a foundation that separates. Crumble or fall apart like powder eyeshadow or blush.
How long should you keep foundation before throwing it out? ›
Water-based foundation typically is good for a year, while oil-based foundation is good for about 18 months. Consider replacing cream-based foundation or blushes every six months to a year. Powder products, if stored properly and free from moisture, are good for up to two years.
When should you get rid of makeup? ›
Cream Makeup: after 6 months to 1 year. Lipstick: after 1 year. Powder Makeup: after 2 years.
Can I use 10 year old eyeshadow? ›
The time from opening to when eyeshadows expire is 12 months but if left unopened, you have a full three years to hang onto them. This is because eyeshadow palettes are generally made with powder formulas. Therefore, they don't harbor as much bacteria as other, liquid makeup products.
What does expired makeup look like? ›
The texture and consistency of the product may also change depending on the formula; watch out for clumpiness, drying out or separation when applying. Each beauty product may have different signs of expiration. For example, expired mascara will start to dry out and the formula won't apply properly.
How long should makeup last? ›
GENERAL RULE OF THUMB
PRODUCT | SHELF LIFE | PERIOD AFTER OPENING |
---|
Cream Concealer | 24 months | Until expiry |
Essential Foundation | 30 months | Until expiry |
Eyeshadow Refill | 36 months | 1-2 years |
Face Powder Refill | 36 months | 1-2 years |
7 more rowsMar 2, 2023
Should you really throw away expired makeup? ›
Preservatives in makeup don't last forever.
In general, to maintain a clear and attractive complexion you should discard old makeup. It can harbor germs, degrade, and become rancid. Only the most powerful preservatives might inhibit microbes.
You should replace your makeup every 3 months to 2 years, depending on the product. But these are just guidelines, so pay attention to any changes in your makeup's color, texture, or smell. If makeup isn't stored properly or applied in a sanitary way, it can break down faster, so you may need to replace it sooner.
How should your makeup change as you age? ›
Prioritize lightweight, hydrating foundation formulas
Since skin gets drier as you age, the best foundations for mature skin tend to be light formulas that won't settle into fine lines and look cake-y on the skin. Start with sheer coverage and build in areas you feel you need more.
Does mascara expire? ›
You may not want to part with your favorite tube of mascara, but we hate to inform you that it has the earliest expiration date when it comes to makeup. Mascara lasts around three to six months, and shouldn't be kept around for longer. Think about it: You're putting it right near your eyes.
How do I check if my makeup is expired? ›
Regardless of what store you purchase your favorite products from, all makeup should be stamped with an image of an open jar, then a number followed by the letter "M." This is the "period after opening" (PAO) sign that lets consumers know how many months after opening until the product expires.
Does makeup expire if not opened? ›
Most skin, hair, and body products can last up to two to three years unopened, according to Wilson. But it also completely depends on the product. For starters, Mallon notes that natural or "clean" products tend to have a shorter shelf life because there are fewer or more natural preservatives in the products.
How to do a full face of makeup? ›
- Step 1: Moisturizer. Before you begin applying your makeup, take the time to prep your skin with a high-quality moisturizer. ...
- Step 2: Primer. ...
- Step 3: Liquid Foundation. ...
- Step 4: Concealer. ...
- Step 5: Foundation Powder. ...
- Step 6: Bronzer. ...
- Step 7: Blush. ...
- Step 8: Highlighter.
Do I need to throw out my makeup if I have pink eye? ›
Throw away and replace any eye or face makeup you used while infected. Replace contact lens solutions that you used while your eyes were infected. Throw away disposable contact lenses and cases that were used while your eyes were infected. Clean extended wear lenses as directed.
When should you toss out beauty products? ›
Here's how often you should replace skincare, makeup products
- Cleansers and toners: 6 months to 1 year. ...
- Serums: 6 months to 1 year. ...
- Moisturizers and sunscreens: 6 months to 1 year. ...
- Foundations and concealers: 6 months to 1 year. ...
- Mascara: 4 to 6 months. ...
- Lipsticks and lip glosses: 6 months to 1 year.
How do you know if your makeup is too much? ›
“Too much” is such a personal preference! For you, it might be too much when the makeup feels heavy on your skin or like your skin can't breathe (even if it looks really good).
How do you deal with expired makeup? ›
If your makeup has a strange odor, has changed color or texture significantly, or has developed mold, it's best to toss it out. Don't risk applying expired makeup to your eyes or skin, as it can cause irritation or infection.