The Real Shelf-Life of Your Makeup

Makeup Expiration Dates Exposed

October 21st, 2010 by Beauty Schools Directory
When was the last time you cleaned out your make-up bag? Do you have any idea of what’s hiding in there? Eye shadow from high school…and you’ve been out for almost 10 years?

Unfortunately, most of our make-up doesn’t offer the convenience of a makeup expiration date like the items in our pantry or fridge. So it’s important to make a mental note to periodically rid your bag of old make-up. Why? Old make-up can be dry, clumpy and not wear as well on your face, but most importantly expired make-up can play host to a plethora of bacteria.

As you read this list of makeup expiration dates go through your make-up bag and if it doesn’t make the cut–toss it!

The shelf-life of make-up:

• Mascara & eyeliner—3 months
• Powders and eye shadows—2 years
• Cream eye shadows—12 to 18 months
• Foundation—1 year
• Lipstick—1 year
• Nail polish—1 year
• Make-up brushes—Clean weekly by using warm water and mild hand soap
• Make-up sponges—Replace weekly

An exception to these makeup expiration dates is if you experience an eye infection. Always throw away your mascara, eyeliner and even eye shadow, or you’ll let the infection come back!

So, there you go! Inspiration to go clean out your make-up bag tonight. What’s the scariest find or oldest find you’ve dug out of a make-up bag?