We know it's hard to get rid of your favorite blush or lipstick
, but it's actually extremely important to stick to your
makeup expiration dates. Why? Cosmetics can trap bacteria, which means they
need to be replaced regularly to avoid skin irritation, rashes, eye infections,
and styes. It's not pretty, is it? According to makeup artist Ashely Rebecca,
“Skin frustrations such as rashes, bumps and a burning sensation can occur when
using expired products. If you wear mascara or eyeliner that is past its
expiration date, you may experience swelling, itching, or redness.
It's always best to see a dermatologist right away if you
experience any reactions. "(And it's not just about your makeup formulas,
see what happened when we tested the bacteria levels on makeup confrontations.)
But here's a caveat: Dissimilar the contents of your
refrigerator,
the expiration date of your makeup products depends on the
first day you use them, not the date of purchase. "If you've ever
wondered, all products have a little symbol that looks like a jar with a number
/ letter inside, for example: 12M. This generally means that a product has a
shelf life of 12 months when opened", says famous makeup artist Britty
Whitfield. "For makeup, I always follow the time limit indicated by the
symbol. The worst thing would be to use an old rusty foundation."
So how do you know when to throw away that foundation or
mascara? Separation or changes in texture, as well as bad odors, are dead signs
that the product has not worked.
While it's crucial to look for these telltale signs, it's
always helpful to have a general idea of how long each product will last.
Read on for makeup expiration dates for each type of cosmetic, from blush to
eyeliner.
The shelf life of makeup.
ELNORA TURNER / BYRDIE
To confront
Foundation
Charlotte Tilbury Magic Foundation
Shelf life: six months to one year
Care Tips: Keep your base germ-free longer by care your
fingers away from the neck of the bottle. Instead, moderately drip the formula
onto the back of your hand before applying. If you notice that your foundation
is starting to peel off, it's definitely time to throw it away.
"Products that you dip your finger into to apply to the
skin are more susceptible to bacterial contamination," says Margarita
Lolis, MD, of Schweiger Dermatology Group. "Pump lotions are generally
safer and less prone to contamination. Products with less preservatives, such
as those designed for sensitive people, contain fewer preservatives and
bacteria are more likely to grow."
Liquid highlighting
0.33oz / 10ml Liquid Highlighter High Beam High Beam
Shelf life: six months to one year
Care Tips: While it doesn't last as long as its powdered
counterparts, liquid highlighter can last up to a year. Store in a unruffled,
dry place and opt for a disposable applicator if necessary to maximize its
shelf life.
Concealer
Cake Tape Concealer
Shelf life: six months to one year
Care Tips: Alike to substance, concealer can last up to a
year. Keep the invention out of direct sunlight, avoid touching the bid with
your fingers and when you notice separation, it is time to throw it away.
Blush and powder
MAC
Shelf life: two years.
Care Tips: The longest-lasting color cosmetics you've ever
bought, powder blushes last for about two full years. "Ideally, in my
personal experience, powders can spread for longer periods of time if you
actively and regularly clean your brushes. Otherwise, you put old makeup,
germs, and skin cells into this powder every time. Once your tools get dirty,
"says Whitfield. Always, always keep your brushes clean!
Cream blush and various sticks
Clinique Chubby Cheek Balm Stick
Shelf life: 12 to 18 months.
Care Tips: Add a cream blush and "multi" sticks
(as in products you can use on audacities and lips) if you notice a change in
texture.
Always use clean hands when applying any merchandise to help
keep tubes and jars germ free.
Lips
Lipstick, eyeliner and gloss