Does makeup expire?
Do makeup products expire?
Would you drink milk with last year’s date on the carton?
How about snack on a rotten banana?
Just like our favorite food and drinks, makeup products also expire.
Beauty products can make people feel fresh-faced and put together. But let’s make sure we dispose of them properly.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) refers to a product’s shelf life as the time you can safely use “a product to look and act as expected.” Makeup can go bad for different reasons, such as added bacteria from your fingers, products drying up from poor storage and even fungi transferring to applicators.
According to Mayo Clinic Press, as products expire, your skin can react to the bacteria, causing irritation, breakouts or redness. Liquid cosmetics also change color over time from oxidation.
Tips to makeover your makeup:
Cosmetics are generally usable for at least one year. Eye products have a shorter shelf life. Take mascara, for example. It’s recommended to dispose of your favorite lash lifter every two to four months. If the bottle dries up, throw it away. Do not add anything liquid to it, which will cause new bacteria to grow.
Powders are safe for two years if stored away from moisture.
For foundations, water-based products are safe for a year. Oil-based cosmetics can be used for 18 months. Cream foundations and blushes are good for up to one year. Apply with tools instead of your hands.
Lipsticks can be used for up to two years, while glosses should be tossed after one year.
Steer clear of those tempting testers at cosmetic counters. If you must try products before purchase, find clean applicators.
Sales are great for pricey cosmetics but beware of second-hand sellers marketing products that have already surpassed their shelf life.
Remember your tools. Wash brushes and sponges weekly. Change your makeup bag regularly, as it also becomes unsanitary.
Avoid sharing cosmetics with friends unless you also want to pass around infections.
The FDA notes that there aren’t U.S. laws requiring printed expiration dates on makeup, but manufacturers are accountable for safety. But products doubling as sunscreens with SPF labeling, such as foundations or powders with sun protection, are considered cosmetics and drugs. Manufacturers are required to ensure they are safe to use until expiration. These products need to be tested and have expiration dates printed on labels.
Grab your makeup bag and start doing some math. Better yet, set phone reminders to keep you accountable for replacing favorite items. Although squeezing out the last drops of the foundation you bought three years ago may benefit your budget, remember that it’s not the best for your health.
Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.
