Does Your Cosmetics have an Expiry Date?

Find out how long your makeup products last!

Alot of people like to collect make up(myself included) but not many people know when it is time to throw it out. You wouldn't think mascara or concealer has an expiration date! Having make up for too long can cause bacteria to grow on the product which when applyed to the skin could cause breakouts or irritation.

Many companies print on the product how long they last for, but it is not compulsory for them to do so. Many products may say 'Y' for year or 'M' for months.

My Tip: When you get a new product label it with what date you opened it.

Mascara: Should be replaced every 3 months. You will notice when the formula begins to clump and get dry, that is your sign! It may also start to smell differently.

My Tip: Try not to 'pump' the wand as much as this will cause introduce more air and bacteria to the formula.

Liquid Eyeliner: Replace every 3months, it normally starts to dry up after this time anyway.

My Tip: Ensure the lid is closed properly after each use.

Eyeliner/Lip Pencils: These should last a good long time as long as you sharpen the top every time you use it to prevent bacteria build up.

Liquid foundation and concealer: About 6-12 months is the time they should last. When the product begins to lighten or seperate into layers then you know its time to toss it in the bin.

Powdered products: After 2 years, they start to become very flaky. Eyeshadows should last forvever aslong as they do not get wet.

Lip gloss: You will know when to thorw it out as the gloss will begin to become extra sticky but they normally last for 1-2 years.

Lip Stick: 2 years is the average lenght before the lipsticks formula will start to become dry.

Nail Polish: Many polishes say how long they should last, but technically nail polish should last a long time but you will know when it has expired when it starts to become very gloopy, stringy and seperate into layers.

My Tip: When your polish begins to harden and turn gloopy pop a bit of nail thinner into the bottle and shake! This will bring the polish back to the correct consistency

Fragrances: 8-10 Years or whenever the smell is different and the colour changes.

My Tip: Keep your bottles out of the way of harsh lights like sunlight or heat as this will cause the chemical bonds to break and the perfume to go off.

Skin Care: Only keep them for about 6-12 months, as mousturisers and cleansers contain chemicals to treat the skin if left for too long the could cause irritation.

I hope this helps you sort out your makeup collection.

-Eva x

#beauty