How long does makeup last?
Posted on Jul 26, 2023 by Zander Beaumont
Understanding the Shelf Life of Your Makeup
Ever wondered about the longevity of your makeup products? Like all things, makeup too has an expiration date. In this section, we'll delve into understanding the shelf life of your makeup, which essentially refers to the period for which a makeup product remains effective and safe to use. It's crucial to be aware of the expiry dates of your makeup products because using expired makeup can lead to skin irritations, breakouts, and infections. The shelf life of makeup varies depending on the type of product and its ingredients. So, let's dive in and explore the different aspects of makeup shelf life.
Decoding Makeup Expiry Dates
Makeup products don't usually come with a specific expiry date like food items do. Instead, they have a Period After Opening (PAO) symbol, which looks like an opened jar with a number and an 'M'. This symbol indicates the number of months the product is safe to use after it has been opened. For instance, if the symbol says '12M', it means the product will last for 12 months after opening. However, this is a standard guideline and the actual lifespan might vary depending on how the product is stored and used.
Longevity of Different Makeup Products
Different types of makeup products have different lifespans. In this section, we'll discuss the longevity of various types of makeup. For instance, mascara and liquid eyeliners usually last up to 3-6 months because they are more prone to bacterial growth. Lipsticks, lip glosses, and lip liners typically last around a year, while powders and blushes can last up to 2 years. Cream blushes and eyeshadows have a shorter lifespan of about 12-18 months. Knowing the lifespan of each product can help you avoid using expired makeup.
The Impact of Makeup Storage on its Longevity
How you store your makeup products can greatly impact their longevity. Most makeup products should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. High temperatures can cause products to degrade faster, while humidity can encourage the growth of mold and bacteria. Also, it's important to keep your makeup products clean and to avoid sharing them with others to prevent the spread of bacteria and infections. In this section, we'll discuss the best ways to store your makeup to ensure its longevity.
Signs Your Makeup Has Expired
There are several telltale signs that your makeup has expired. These include changes in color, texture, or smell. If your makeup starts to smell off, develops a chalky texture, or the color starts to separate, it's time to toss it. In addition, if the makeup causes irritation or a rash, it's likely expired. In this section, we'll delve deeper into the signs of expired makeup to help you identify when it's time to replace your products.
Why You Shouldn't Use Expired Makeup
Using expired makeup isn't just ineffective, it can also be harmful to your skin. Expired makeup can harbor bacteria, which can lead to skin irritations, infections, and even severe conditions like pink eye or styes. In this section, we'll discuss the potential dangers of using expired makeup and why it's important to replace your makeup regularly.
How to Extend the Life of Your Makeup
There are several ways to extend the life of your makeup. These include storing your products properly, cleaning your makeup tools regularly, and avoiding sharing your makeup. In this section, we'll provide some tips and tricks on how to make your makeup last longer.
Replacing Your Makeup Regularly
Replacing your makeup regularly is an essential part of maintaining a healthy beauty routine. Not only does it ensure that your makeup looks its best, but it also helps prevent skin problems caused by expired products. In this final section, we'll discuss how often you should replace your makeup and provide some tips for keeping track of your makeup's expiry dates.