An Insight Into Makeup Expiry Dates

Did you know that makeup products can expire? you might say why don't all our skincare products come with a expiry date? Well, the difficult thing with makeup is that the shelf-life all depends on when a product is first opened, how it's stored and the type of packaging so you'll have to keep track of when you opened them. If you have a hard time keeping track of when you've bought things, just use a Sharpie to write down the purchase date.

You should be most careful with water-based products, such as mascara, because of the risk of bacterial contamination, can lead to infection. Symptoms include redness, pain, swelling, pus, pimples or pink eye. Experts recommends being especially vigilant about eye products.

If you know how to take care of your cosmetics, your makeup should serve you well.  You can keep your cosmetics germ-free by:

• Washing your hands before applying.
• Not sharing makeup.
• Not adding water or saliva to dilute makeup.
• Keeping cosmetics in a dry area, away from direct heat or sunlight.

Warning signs that will tell you if it has expired:

• The product’s smell has changed ( lipstick has a funny smell)
• It has been exposed to prolonged heat.
• There is an obvious colour or textural change.
• If your gloss is gloopy
• Your nail polish is separating

PRODUCT                                                                                   WHEN TO TOSS

Powders (including blushes, bronzers, and shadows).................Two years

Cream shadows and blushes.......................................................12-18 months

Oil-free foundation.......................................................................One year

Cream compact foundation.........................................................18 months

Concealers...................................................................................12-18 months

Lipstick and lip liner....................................................................One year

Lip gloss......................................................................................18-24 months

Pencil eyeliner.............................................................................Two years

Liquid Eyeliner............................................................................6 months or less

Liquid or gel eyeliner..................................................................Three months

Mascara........................................................................................Three months

Moisturizers & Skin Care.............................................................One to Two years.

Toner.............................................................................................Six months to One year