Let’s get one thing straight: makeup is miracle. It’s great at covering up all your blemishes and making you feel like a fabulous supermodel. Additionally, you can even eat it, though I don’t know if I’d ever do that. But alas, everything comes to an end, and there comes the tragic time where makeup has to be thrown away.
The major reason makeup needs to be thrown out when it expires is because it can become full of bacteria that can lead to infections. Water-based makeup products (i.e. liquids) can have a higher risk of bacteria, as well as can products that are store in warmer environments.
Here’s a handy list of how long you should keep your makeup products, assuming you use them normally (and don’t get sick first).
1. Eyeshadow
Eyeshadow has a shelf life of around 2 years. Old eyeshadow could potentially lead to a nasty eye infection (and honestly, ain’t nobody got time for that).
2. Lipstick and Lipgloss
Lipstick is good for 2 years. You might be able to tell your lipstick is too old if it changes in color, texture, or smell. Gloss stays good for a year.
3. Mascara
Like eyeshadow, dried out mascara can breed bacteria. Yikes. Mascara typically has a lifespan of 3 to 6 months.
Spoon Tip: A lot of people pump their mascara to get more formula, but be cautious as that might also dry it out quicker and expose it to bacteria.
4. Foundation
Liquid foundation is only good for around 6 months, but foundation in a pump can last for 1-2 years. Inconsistency in the color of foundation is a good way to tell that its gone bad.
5. Eyeliner
Now this one is going to depend on the type of eyeliner that you’re using. Gel liner is good for around 6 months because the dipping into the pot exposes it to bacteria. Liquid eyeliner also has a shelf life of 6 months. However, your pencil liners can last up to a year.
These are the average lives of popular makeup products based on their normal usage, but times may vary depending on your own personal sanitation habits. It is possible for makeup to last longer if you take steps like washing your hands before using your products, cleaning your brushes regularly, and use sanitizing products.
However, any type of serious changes in your makeup product (texture, color, smell, etc.) is probably a warning sign that you should chuck that baby into the trash bin. Also, if you get sick, it’s best to throw away any eye or lip makeup that you might have used while you were ill. I mean, do you really want to risk picking up a second round of pinkeye? No thanks.