Still hanging on to that stub of your favorite discontinued lipstick? You may not realize it but makeup expires! Using expired makeup can lead to serious skin irritation, breakouts, and infection.
Facial cosmetics are very delicate and can do more harm than good if you do not keep track of their expiration date. Yes, cosmetics have an expiration date, just as medical products do and you should remove them from your cosmetics bag as soon as this date is past. Find out when it's time to let go with this simple guide!
READING THE EXPIRATION DATE
The FDA does not require cosmetic companies to provide expiration dates on beauty products but a few brands list them anyway! Like food labels, some cosmetics have the month, date, and year printed on the package. Others have a symbol of a jar with an open lid, number, and letter. The open lid means the expiration date applies once the product is opened or the seal is removed. The letter is usually an "M" for month or "Y" for year. So if you see "12 M" on the symbol that means the product will last up to 12 months after it has been opened.
MASCARA
Shelf-life: 2 - 3 months
Mascara is a product that you should be extra careful with,This is a product based on water, so it is a breeding ground for bacteria, How to tell: As soon as you notice it's getting clumpy or smells weird, toss it out!
Rule: Stop sharing mascara! This is a guaranteed way to spread germs.
LOTION
Shelf-life: 2 years
How to tell: A change in color or scent is a dead giveaway for expired lotion!
Tip: Go for a bottle with a pump rather than one in a jar. Lotion with a pump is less prone to airborne bacteria meaning it will last longer because is much more sanitary.
LIQUID FOUNDATION / CONCEALER
Shelf-life: 6 -12 months.
How to tell: If it has separated into layers or the color has lightened, it's time to buy a new one!
Tip: Keep makeup out of sunlight. UV rays can destroy preservatives which will make your products spoil faster.
Concealer: Wand applicator concealers should be tossed within 6 months since they’re likely to grow bacteria. Stick, twist-up tubes, or compact concealers can last up to 12 months, especially if you use a makeup brush to apply the product.
LIPSTICK / LIPGLOSS
Shelf-life: 2 years for lipstick, 1 year for gloss.
How to tell: If you notice your lipstick has become dry or your gloss is extra sticky, they've probably gone bad!
Rule: Testing out shades at the makeup counter is totally fine but never apply directly from the tube. Ask an associate to disinfect it for you then apply with a disposable applicator.
POWDER FOUNDATION, BLUSH, & EYESHADOW
Shelf-life: 2 years.
How to tell: Expired powders tend to be more dry and flaky than new ones.
Rule: Invest in a cosmetic sanitizer and brush shampoo! Cleaning your makeup and tools on a regular basis will help prevent both bacteria growth and breakouts!
FRAGRANCES
Shelf-life: 8 - 10 years!
How to tell: Perfumes that are starting to smell different or lighten in color are definitely expired!
Tip: Bright lights make perfumes oxidize faster. Store them in cool, dark places to make them last longer!
NAIL POLISH
Shelf-life: 1 - 2 years.
How to tell: If the polish is extra goopy or has separated into layers and won't blend after a quick shake, it's time to let it go!
Tip: Next time you're in the beauty aisle, grab a nail polish thinner which is a cheap and easy way to increase the longevity of your favorite polish! Stick with these rules for a healthy beauty routine—your skin will thank you for it!
EYE AND LIP PENCILS
Eye and lip pencils,If you sharpen them every few days, makeup pencils can last a year or longer. It’s time to trash them when they become dry, crumbly, and hard to apply.
ALL NATURAL COSMETICS
All-natural cosmetics: Because these products do not contain preservatives, they should be used or discarded within 6 months.
Here are some more tips that will help you make the most of your makeup:
1. Don’t ever share cosmetics.
2. Don’t put your fingers into the product. Use the applicator
provided, or a makeup sponge.
3. Keep containers tightly closed, and store them in a cool, dry place.
4. Don’t use water or saliva to ease the application of a product. Doing so
introduces bacteria into the product, which can cause a host of problems.
5. Immediately toss the product out if there is a change of color, texture,
or consistency; if the ingredients settle or separate; or if an odor develops.
No comments:
Post a Comment