Makeup does wonders for our confidence and self-expression—but like food, cosmetics have an expiry. Knowing when to throw away your makeup is crucial not only for optimal performance but also for skin health.
Expired products could harbor bacteria, lose potency, or in some cases, worsen irritation or lead to infections. Thus, let's now talk about cosmetic shelf life, how to detect expired makeup, and when it's time to bid adieu.Why Makeup Has an Expiry Date
Each cosmetic product comes with a specific formula that makes it perform: drying skin; coloring; or otherwise, protection from UV rays. As time elapses, these elements oxidize, degrade, or become breeding grounds for bacteria. With time, the product becomes unsafe or, in too many cases, just stops working.
Some signs of expired makeup are:
Changes in texture or smell
Separation of ingredient
Color fading or darkening
Skin irritation after application
Using expired makeup can lead to:
Breakouts
Eye infections
Rashes
Clogged pores
General Guidelines: Makeup Expiration by Product
Let me share some brief information regarding the shelf life of some famous makeup products. These timelines apply to the product only if it has been opened.
1. Foundation & Concealer – 6 to 12 Months
Liquid and cream makeups are highly prone to contamination due to their moisture content. When separation occurs, or the product has a bad smell or a color change, it should be discarded.
2. Powder Products (Blush, Bronzer, Eyeshadow) – Up to 2 Years
2 Years maximum. Powders rarely allow for bacterial growth, but they do expire. You know it's time to replace them if they become hard, flake, or lose pigment.
3. Mascara – Every 3 Months
One of the most high-risk products concerning your health, mascara dries out quickly and invites bacteria.
4. Eyeliner (Pencil) – 12 to 24 Months
With their being sharpened, pencil eyeliners have a longer life. But if they dry out or start smelling funny, time for a toss.
5. Eyeliner (Liquid) – 3 to 6 Months
Like mascara, liquid liner is more prone to bacterial infection so should be discarded regularly, especially if applied near the waterline.
6. Lipstick & Lip Gloss – 12 to 18 Months
Lip products that smell of crayon or develop a gritty texture should be discarded. Glosses can also separate or feel sticky.
7. Cream-Based Products – 6 to 12 Months
Though they include cream-based shadow paint, highlighting foundation, or stick foundations for light, these products become degraded quicker. basically, 6 and 12 months.
How to Keep Makeup Fresh Longer
Want your makeup to last as long as it's safe? Try these simple lifestyle habits:
Store products in a cool, dry area–not in the hot, humid bathroom.
Keep your hands and tools clean--always wash your hands before applying makeup.
Keep Your Distance: Sharing is not Caring-- Especially eye and lip products.
Seal tightly after use; air renders the shelf life shorter
Use spatula or brushes: Instead of fingers, apply for cream or pot type products.
How to Read Expiry Dates on Makeup
Most cosmetics have what is known as the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol or a small open jar icon on them. If you see "12M," it means that the product is good for 12 months after opening.
What Happens If You Use Expired Makeup?
It might not hurt if one accidentally rubs an old eyeliner-on-the-eye-in-the-making, but over-time, old products will only serve as triggers for reactions. The symptoms vary, but sensitive skins may present:
Burning or itching
Red spots
Acne
Infection in the eye like conjunctivitis
Final Thoughts
Makeup has the power of transforming one's appearance. However, expired cosmetics could do more harm than good. So, learn to look for the expiration signs, familiarize yourself with the shelf life of your favorite products, and emphasize on cleanliness. When in doubt, throw it out. Your skin (and eyes, too) will thank you.
No comments:
Post a Comment