The Shelf Life And Death of Beauty Products: How Long Should You Keep Your Makeup?

If you just can’t decide when and if to part with your favorite lipstick, or that fabulous mascara that turns heads everywhere you go, it’s good to keep in mind that using makeup for longer than it’s intended to last might lead to serious health problems and can even take a toll on your look (the opposite from what you’re trying to get) like: eye infection, conjunctivitis, acne, cold sores and rashes.

Of course your question is “When should I throw my makeup away, then?”

We have good news and bad news. The bad news is there is no universal answer to this. It all depends on multiple factors such as: the formula, consistency, brand and area for which the product is for. The good news is, we, at Vivien Kondor have put together a little guide for you, so you don’t have to spend half a day checking the expiration date on each and every cosmetic product you own.

It’s good to bear in mind that all cosmetics should be stored in a cool, dry, place and as soon as they get dry, develop a funny smell or the texture changes it’s time to toss them.

Mascara & Liquid Eyeliner

By far the biggest offender on this list, mascara and liquid eyeliners have a life span of only 3 months at best. Every time you dip the wand into the tube you’re letting bacteria in, be it from air or your eyes.

If it starts drying out sooner than 3 months, do not under any circumstances try to add water or worse, saliva to it. The bazillion of eye infections you could get by doing that is just not worth it.

Liquid Foundation, Cream Eyeshadows, Cream Blush and Generally, Cream Everything

While in the store, it can last for well above 2 years, but once you pop that cap off, you’ve got between 6 and 12 months to use it. Keep away from hit and humidity, and watch for any change in texture or smell.

Keeping it longer than that might give you rashes or breakouts.

Face Powder & Blush

Not being water based, gives these products up to 2 years expectancy. Just watch out for any change in smell or color. Also if the texture becomes so hard, that you can barely get some on your brush or sponge, it’s time to replace it.

Oh, and while at it remember to change or clean the sponges and brushes on a constant base.

 

 

Powder Eyeshadow

Though similar in composition to blush and face powder, its proximity to the sensitive eye membrane, makes it not safe to use for more than 3-4 months.

Lipstick

Not containing any water, the number one item in any lady’s purse, the lipstick, can be kept for more than a year.

Signs that it might be time to replace it are: dryness and stale cooking oil smell.

Nail Polish

We might have a winner here! Nail polish never goes bad from bacteria. It does sometimes happen, however, to become all dry and clumpy and then it needs replacing.

The handiest tip regarding nail polish, that we can share with you is: keep it in the fridge to preserve it longer and shake the bottle thoroughly before each use.

Did we leave anything out?

Let us know in the comment section below.