Many of us, specially who open their makeup drawer for occasional purpose, use the same eye liner, mascara or other makeup products from the beginning of time! I don’t blame you…because I did the same thing when I had no idea about the shelf life of makeup products.
Shelf life means the length of time for which an item remains usable. One time I used a mascara, which smelt funky but I applied it anyhow. Just when I got out of my door my eyes started to water and it stung like hell! I had to buy a bottle of water and clean my distressed eyes before I reached my destination L
So after that day, I vowed no matter how pricey the product is or how much I love using it, when it’s time to get rid of it, I will discard it!
Here is how you will know when to discard makeup products.
MASCARA
Mascara is the most sensitive product as you use it onto your eyelashes and it expires the fastest. As you take out the brush and apply it, the brush accumulates any bacteria collected along the way. That is why NEVER share your mascara with anybody.
Throw it out after 4-5 months to be safe and if you don’t want to be so heartless (!), just toss it in the dustbin if it starts to smell funky/ resembles gasoline.
EYE LINER
If sharpened regularly, pencil eye liners can last up to 3 years. But if the pencil liners get hard, a white film starts to develop on the tip that can’t be sharpened off and the color is not as vibrant as before, it is time to throw it. Liquid liners should be treated as the mascara.
EYE SHADOW
These babies can last up to 3 years when in the powder form; just use a clean brush when you use it. If you use your fingers to apply, wash your hands before doing so and be aware of any color switches or off-putting smells.
FOUNDATION
Powder foundations can last up to 2 years. In case of liquid foundation, it can last from 6 months to 1 year. Just keep it in a cool dry place and away from direct light. If it’s causing breakout or itching when applied, you should get rid of it.
CONCEALER
Concealers in powder and stick form can last for up to 2 years, while liquids should be tossed after 1.
BLUSH
The shelf life of powder blush and powder foundation is the very same- 2 years. If it’s a cream blush, then the product is at its best for 1 year after breaking the seal.
LIPSTICK & LIP GLOSS
Lip products are repeatedly exposed to the mouth area, so it’s better to replace these after a year, or if you’ve recently been sick. Some experts say 1-2 years. Others say up to 4 years. Lipsticks and glosses contain oily ingredients that start to smell like stale cooking oil over time, so throw it when it smells rancid.
LIP LINER
These can be used up to 3 years. When a white film starts to develop on the tip like the pencil eye liners, toss it!
NAIL POLISH
These can be used up to 12 months or more, depending on the quality. Store it in a cool-dry place and avoiding sunlight. Generally when the lacquer dries out and becomes thick and clumpy, with the pigments settling along the bottom of the bottle… I replace it.
BRUSH & SPONGE
Clean the brushes after they have been used. If you use your makeup brushes every day then deep clean the brushes weekly. Same rule applies for makeup sponges.
I always store my go-to makeup products in a drawer separated by small containers and the majority of my products in my train-case/beauty box. Storing the products in a cool, dry and dark place ensures the longevity and product quality. Whenever I use any brush on myself or use it on my clients, I thoroughly but gently clean it afterwards.
Try these tips and let me know how it goes!
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Stay Healthy . Stay Beautiful ! |
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Aawww..Thanks for following dear. It means a lot!
MAC studio fix also broke me out...but I use it occasionally now.
Great post&very helpful. Jus stumbled across ur comment on my blog abt e clarins gentle night cream, yes I hav tried it its lovely jus like other clarins products, helped a lot when my skin reacted to mac studio fix fluid
Great blog btw, following!
Thanks Tina! I am glad you liked it :)
Terrific write up, Wasifa! :) <3 xo-Tina
Aginghotgirl.blogspot.com
Thanks Loredana! :)
Great post! Very informative!