When a good thing isn’t a good thing anymore, it’s time to say goodbye. Unfortunately, makeup can’t last forever and once that expiration date comes it’s time to pitch it. When you use makeup past its due date you may notice the consistency isn’t the same or the color, and that can be detrimental to your skin.
How often should makeup be replaced?
Expiration dates that are printed on makeup packaging are guidelines to when you open the product. If makeup is properly stored in a cool, dry place being completely sealed then it should last for 2 to 3 years.
Although, most makeup will eventually break down over time so anything past the 3 year mark should be discarded.
Foundation & concealer
Shelf life: 3-6 months
Foundation has a shelf life of approximately 6 months to a year. Over time, the product will begin to break down and start to clump.
Eyeliner
Liquid Eyeliner Shelf life: 3-6 months
Pencil Eyeliner Shelf life: 1 year
Liquid eyeliner should be discarded after 3-6 months since it’s always in contact with the eyes and is exposed to moisture. If the products texture changed, discard immediately.
Gel and pencil eyeliners can last up to a year, it’s recommended that you sharpen your liners after several uses.
Mascara
Shelf life: 3-6 months
Once mascara reaches its peak it no longer can be used to same quality as you bought it, sometimes when mascara dries it can be helpful to apply eye drops into the tube to bring some life, however this is a temporary solution and if the mascara is old and you can barely apply anything to your lashes it’s sadly time to say goodbye. The telltale sign of when it’s time to part ways is whenever it loses its consistency or changes color.
Blush
Shelf life: 2-3 years
Blush that’s a powder formula usually lasts for a long time with good use, the biggest sign to change it would be if it smells or has a texture that wasn’t normal before.
Lipstick
Shelf life: 2-3 years
Lipstick is ready to be disposed of when it has lost texture or pigmentation
Parting with makeup is never fun, but saving your skin from any mishaps or reactions is absolutely necessary. If you’re not fully ready to commit to new products, consider a beauty box to help you find your next perfect product.
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This post was revised April 18, 2022.
