How to Know When It's Time to Throw Out Your Makeup (2024)

FAQs

How to Know When It's Time to Throw Out Your 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Cream Makeup: after 6 months to 1 year. Lipstick: after 1 year. Powder Makeup: after 2 years.

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.

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.

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.

How often should you buy makeup? ›

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

“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).

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.