As we get older, we start to think more about what we put into our bodies and how it affects our health. We choose our food more carefully, drink more supplements and pay attention to our overall well-being.
But there’s one area we often overlook—our beauty products. We have those trusty staples that we’ve relied on for years, and they’ve become part of our daily routine. But it’s easy to stick with what we know and forget that even our favourite cosmetics can change over time.
A seasoned makeup artist has seen firsthand the consequences of clinging to cosmetics well beyond their expiration dates. And yes, they could pose real risks to your health.
Saffron Hughes warned that expired makeup isn’t just less effective and could cause severe skin issues.
‘Whilst you may think you’re doing no harm by using an expired makeup product, it’s important to note that using these items can cause a range of issues,’ she said.
‘This is because the ingredients in products degrade over time, potentially causing allergic reactions, skin irritations, and more.’
She noted that expired makeup can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi, leading to breakouts, eye infections, and other skin-related issues.
So, how do you know when to say goodbye to your favourite mascara or foundation? Hughes explained how long you should use the most common makeup products.
Mascara
‘Mascara is one where I’m quite strict,’ she said, emphasising that it should be tossed away after three months.
‘The inside of a mascara tube is just the perfect environment for bacteria to grow.’
She also explained frequently pumping the wand can introduce air and bacteria into the tube.
‘So, make a note to replace your mascara every three months, or even sooner, if you notice any changes in the texture, if it’s clumping, or if there’s a strange smell,’ Hughes said.
Brow gel
Brow gels, on the other hand, can last up to six months. But like mascaras, they’re prone to contamination.
‘Anything with an applicator that you’re dipping in and out of, like brow gels or those pot eyeliners, are quite prone to contamination,’ she said.
She also suggested ensuring the product is tightly closed after each use to prevent additional bacteria from leaking.
‘Keep an eye out for any changes in colour, whether the product is drying out or if the scent changes.’
Foundation
Foundation can be safely used for up to a year after opening, depending on how often you use it and whether you switch between products.
‘After a year, you might find that it starts to oxidise, which changes the colour,’ Hughes noted.
She also recommended that if you’re working with a powder foundation, it should be discarded as soon as it becomes dry and crumbly.
Lipstick
Lipstick can easily gather bacteria since it’s being applied directly to the lips. ‘So, to keep things hygienic, give the surface of your lipstick a clean with a makeup wipe every so often,’ she advised.
‘If you’re feeling a bit under the weather, consider sanitising it with alcohol after you’ve used it, and allow it to dry fully.’
Any texture or scent changes indicate it’s time to discard it.
Have you ever experienced a reaction to an expired beauty product? How do you keep track of your makeup’s shelf life? Share your stories and tips in the comments below.
