Cosmetics Expiration Dates
We know that food goes bad, but what about stuff like our cosmetics? We used them daily but do you know that they have expiration dates too? Most of us probably have a tube of mascara that's been knocking around in our makeup bag for a year now. Or how about a lipstick you've been swiping on for a decade?
Unless you set aside time to go through your cosmetics stash, you could easily have expired products and still be using them. The reason these dates are important is that they are a breeding ground for bacteria as the products can decompose which will cause problems with the skin. Such as burns and irritation from old products. Here’s what you need to know.
Lipstick: 2 years
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Change in color, texture or smell are all big warning signs that your lipstick has expired.
Sunscreen: 2 years
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Sunscreen becomes less effective over time and expired sunscreen should be replaced. Store it away from the sun, perhaps a cooler place to prevent the formula from becoming unstable.
Foundation: 6 months to 2 years
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Foundation packaged in a pot expires in about 6 months, whereas a pump formula can last one to two years. Bacteria can grow in the foundation and cause acne breakouts or skin irritation. If it develops an off-smell, discard sooner.
Mascara & Liquid Eyeliner: 3-6 months
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Blush, Eye Shadow & Other Powder Cosmetics: 1-2 years
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Powder lasts longer than wet formulas if it smells and the colour goes out of style, toss it! However, you get an eye infection it is recommended to toss eye shadow sooner than other powders as it is in close contact with your eyes.
Do note the shelf life of cosmetics depends on the period after opening and production date. When in doubt, toss anything that has changed in smell, colour or texture.
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Text by: GirlStyle SG