- By Bornika Das
- Tue, 01 Apr 2025 11:39 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Makeup Expiration: There are certain women who use makeup products like lipsticks, mascara, and foundation year after year. Little do they know that even makeup products have expiration dates. Just like food, makeup products also have a shelf life and using expired makeup products on the skin can lead to skin-related problems like irritation, breakouts and even infections. With time, makeup products crumble and fall apart owing to the bacteria build up. Thus, it is important for women to know when to throw makeup products away.
There are certain signs that show that the makeup product has expired. Changes in appearance, consistency and smell are signs that tell you to throw the makeup away. However, women must know that not all makeup products have the same expiry. Powders last longer than creams, while liquid products expire faster due to their moisture content. If you’re confused about when to throw away makeup products, here’s the guide for you.
Guide To Discard Expired Makeup
Foundation And Lipstick
If the lipstick turns gooey, smells rubbery or no longer stays on the lips, it is time to bid adieu to your favourite lipstick. The shelf life of lipstick is at least eight months. If you’re applying an expired lipstick, it may make the lips cold, sore and prone to infections. Moreover, liquid, cream and compact foundation can last for a year, but if they develop a strange aroma and rubber-like texture, discard them immediately.
Eyeliner
Throw away the pencil liner if it oozes an oily or white film substance. Liquid eyeliner expires after six months and it is better to dump it as soon as the texture turns thick or smells bad. From time to time, take a look at the applicator tip to witness the signs of expiry. The expired eyeliner, when in contact with your eyelids, can cause a breeding ground for bacteria and lead to infection.
Mascara
The shelf life of mascara is four to six months. However, some brands recommend throwing them away after two to four months. Discard the mascara as soon as it starts smelling funky or has deposits or clumps of that simple liquid colour. It is better not to take any chances with eye products as it can lead to eye infection.
When Does Makeup Products Expire (Image Credits: Freepik)
Blush And Eyeshadows
If you have cream-textured brushes or eyeshadows, then their expiry is up to one year. But the powdered ones need to be thrown away immediately after the formation of a white crust and crumble. Usually, cream brushes have a peculiar smell, but if the consistency changes, toss it in the dustbin. Moreover, keep them away from heat and moisture, as exposure to humidity and exposure to sunlight can change their texture.
Makeup Brushes
Makeup brushes that you use for powdered makeup can last for a year, however, they need to be washed at least once a week with gentle soap and warm water. Synthetic brushes that are used for cream should be thrown away in six months and need to be cleaned twice a week, not with water but with an alcohol-based cleaner. Also, if the brush starts shedding or becomes rigid, then stop applying it on the cheeks and eyelids.