We all love to invest in best products when it comes to our skin. And as we buy top brands, that tend to be on expensive side, to add to our makeup kit, we want to make sure we use every last drop of it. But let’s be honest, unless you are a professional makeup artist or you apply makeup almost every day, chances are most of your products barely come out occasionally. While you might feel it is fine to hold on to your makeup products for as long as possible, you need to remember they come with an expiration date.
How do you know you makeup has expired? What happens if you use expired makeup? Are there any exceptions to it? How to store your makeup the correct way? If you too are wondering all this, then we connected with Makeup Artists and Skincare Expert to get all the answers for you.
We know, in typical Indian households we have a tendency to take expiry dates lightly, but when it comes to your skin and health, its best not to take a chance and read what the experts have to say.
How to know if your makeup has expired?
Professional Makeup Artist Prachi Mahajan says, “As a professional makeup artist, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of knowing when your makeup has expired. Using expired products can lead to skin problems, reduced effectiveness, and potential health risks.” So, how can we tell if our makeup has expired?
Prachi tells us:
- Look for the PAO Symbol: The PAO (Period After Opening) symbol, a small open jar icon on the packaging, indicates how long the product is safe to use after opening. Common PAO periods are 6 months (6M), 12 months (12M), or 24 months (24M).
- Texture Changes: If your foundation separates, lipsticks dry out, or mascara clumps, these are signs that the product has expired. Expired formulas lose their consistency and won’t perform as well.
- Strange Odors: A change in scent is a clear indicator that the product is no longer good. Mascara, in particular, should be replaced every 3-6 months, as bacteria can easily build up.
- Color Fading: Products that change color or lose vibrancy, like eyeshadows and blushes, should be discarded. Expired products may not blend well and could irritate the skin.
Dermatologist and cosmetologist, Dr. Chandni Gupta adds more points to the list:
- Mold or Bacteria: Visible mold or an unusual, slimy texture suggests that the product is contaminated.
- Irritation: If a product causes irritation, redness, or an allergic reaction that didn’t happen before, it might be expired or contaminated.
What are Typical Expiry Dates for Makeup Products?
The expiry dates for different makeup products vary based on a number of factors. According to Expert makeup artist and cosmetologist Mrinali Kalia – “Concealer, cream blush, lip gloss, foundation and eyeshadow have a shelf life of 1 year; whereas eyeliner pencil, liquid liner, lipstick & mascara has shelf life for 2-3 years.”
Prachi breaks it down further for us:
- Mascara & Liquid Eyeliner: 3-6 months
- Liquid Foundation & Concealer: 12-18 months
- Lipstick & Lip Gloss: 12-24 months
- Powder Products (Blush, Eyeshadow, Bronzer): 24-36 months
- Skincare Products: 6-12 months after opening
Are there any exceptions to the rule?
Many people at times feel lenient when it comes to following the “Best Before” dates on products, especially when it comes to non-eatables. So, is there any exception to the rules when it comes to makeup products? Mrinali Kalia says, “Some exceptions may apply under certain conditions like pressed powders, blushes and eyeshadow can last longer because they contain less moisture which inhibits bacterial growth. Makeup that is unopened and stored in cool dry place may last beyond the expiration date. However, they should be replaced if there is change in color, smell or texture.”
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What happens if you use expired makeup products?
From Skincare Experts to Makeup Artists, everyone shares the opinion that you should never use expired makeup products.
Dermatologist and Founder of Elantis Aesthetics, Dr. Chandni expresses her concern and says, “Using expired makeup increases the risk of transferring harmful bacteria to your skin, especially with products applied near the eyes or mouth. Expired makeup can harbor bacteria and mold, leading to infections or skin issues like acne, irritation or allergic reaction.”
Prachi Mahajan adds to it, “While some products may seem fine, they could still cause adverse skin reactions. Using expired makeup can lead to clogged pores, irritation, infections, and even more severe skin issues. So, it’s better to replace them rather than risk skin damage.”
How to properly store your makeup?
“Proper storage of makeup can significantly extend their shelf life and maintain their quality,” shares Mrinali. Well, who would know better about proper storing of makeup products that professional makeup artists, right?
She further adds, “I would suggest to keep products in a cool and dry place away from direct sunlight and heat sources as these can breakdown the ingredients and shorten the product’s lifespan. Always make sure to keep the caps and lids are tightly closed to prevent air and moisture getting in the products. Always use clean brushes, sponges and never share your personal makeup with others.”
Adding to this, Prachi Mahajan says, “Store your lipsticks in a cool, dry place to prevent melting or hardening. Always keep your primers and foundations, in an upright position, in a cool, dry area to avoid separation or breakdown of the formula. And as for your mascara, avoid pumping the wand to prevent drying out.”
So, when it comes to your skin, it is best not to gamble with the products and their best before dates. Makeup products, like other items, have an expiry date for a reason, and you must make sure to follow that. And even if you don’t know the expiry date, make sure to watch out the signs as shared by the Experts. Remember that expired makeup products not only lose their effectiveness, they can also pose serious health risks.
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