How Long Should You Keep Your Makeup Before Discarding?

Have you ever noticed the little picture with numbers on the back of your makeup tube or container? This indicates the makeup's expiration date, guiding you on when it might be wise to toss it out. However, many people, including myself, tend to keep their makeup well beyond the recommended timeframe. This article will explore the factors that influence how long you should keep your makeup and offer tips for extending its life.

Understanding Makeup Expiration Dates

Makeup products typically come with an expiration date, which is usually indicated in months on the container. This is not a strict guideline but rather a recommendation. Most makeup products can last up to two years after the expiration date, provided they are stored properly and show no signs of spoilage. Mascara and foundation, for instance, often need to be discarded every six months, but you can often extend this timeframe by following proper storage and usage practices.

Factors Affecting Makeup Lifespan

Several factors can impact how long your makeup lasts, including:

Product Type: Certain liquid and cream products have shorter lifespans due to their texture and exposure to bacteria and air. Storage Conditions: Exposure to heat, light, and moisture can cause makeup to deteriorate faster. Bathrooms, in particular, are not ideal storage locations due to the high humidity and temperature. Usage Habits: How frequently you use the product and the condition of your brushes can also affect its lifespan.

Signs You Should Discard Your Makeup

If you notice any of the following signs, it's best to discard your makeup immediately:

It feels gritty or dry to the touch instead of smooth and creamy. It develops an unpleasant odor. It changes color. There are visible mold or bacterial growth. Using it causes skin irritation or redness.

Extending Makeup Lifespan

Proper storage and maintenance can significantly extend the lifespan of your makeup. Here are some tips:

Brush Care: Wipe off brushes after each use with a clean, damp cloth. Make sure to wash the cloth once a week. For brushes used for powder products, shampoo them at least once a week. If you have oily skin, be more frequent. Alcohol Treatment: Lightly mist the surface of pressed powder makeup with 91% isopropyl alcohol after each use to kill any bacteria deposited on the surface by your brush. Proper Application: Always shake a bit of the powder into a clean jar lid and dip your application tool into it instead of dipping it directly into the container. This helps prevent contamination.

A Personal Anecdote

I have an extremely valuable and rare pigment called Madeleine Mono Arabian Lights in the shade Bedouin Bronze that I purchased in 1979. It's stunning and iridescent, transforming into a stunning gold when applied with a tiny amount of water. Despite using it a couple of times a week, the jar is still half full. The quality is so exceptional that I wouldn't hesitate to use it today, and I even used it to create a gold paint splatter effect for a Pride event two years ago.

Proper storage is key to preserving this pigment and many other makeup products for years. By following these tips, you can enjoy your makeup for much longer!

Stay safe and keep a look out for signs of spoilage to ensure your makeup stays fresh and safe for your skin!