Raise your hand if you’ve ever kept a lipstick in your makeup bag for a lot longer than you probably should have? Don’t worry — you’re not alone!
Have you ever wondered if your makeup products have a shelf-life? Spoiler alert: they do! Cosmetics, like food, can go bad over time. Using expired makeup can lead to skin irritations, breakouts, and even infections due to bacteria buildup. To ensure your makeup routine stays safe and effective, it’s essential to know the lifespan of your favorite beauty products.
Why Makeup Expiration Dates Matter Makeup expiration dates aren’t about being overly cautious; they’re about protecting your skin. Expired products can harbor bacteria, which can cause skin irritations and infections. This is especially true for products used around the eyes, such as mascara and eyeliner, where the risk of infections like conjunctivitis is higher.
Understanding Makeup Expiration Symbols Makeup expiration dates are typically marked from the first day you use them, not from the purchase date. Many products feature a small symbol resembling a jar with a number/letter indicating the product’s shelf life. However, these symbols can wear off over time or be hard to read. To help you keep track, we’ve created a comprehensive makeup expiration chart for your reference.
MAKEUP EXPIRATION CHART
| Product | Recommended Time for Period after Opening |
| Primer | 1 year |
| Foundation | 1 year |
| Concealer | 1 year |
| Eyeshadow | 1 year |
| Eyeliner | 1 year |
| Mascara | 3 to 6 months |
| Lip Products | 1 year |
| Powder Products | 2 years |
PRIMER, FOUNDATION & CONCEALER
Period after opening: 1 year.
Can’t remember when you opened that foundation that’s been sitting in your makeup drawer for ages? Chances are, it’s time to throw it out. Foundation and concealer — typically in liquid form — last about a year once opened before they can start to grow bacteria. You also might see the formula begin to crack and separate, which means it’s time to let it go. Powder foundation and solid concealer can take a bit longer to accumulate bacteria than their liquid counterparts, so they’ll last a bit longer.
EYELINER & EYESHADOW
Period after opening: 1 year.
Opened eyeliner pencils and eyeshadow can last much longer than their liquid counterparts. Since solid and powder makeup take longer to build up bacteria, you don’t have to worry about it drying out. However, if you’re a big fan of colored eye makeup, you might want to toss it a bit sooner than your neutrals. Brightly hued cosmetics change in color over time and will likely last less than a year once opened. When you notice your purple eyeshadow or green eyeliner fading, it’s time to replace it.
MASCARA
Period after opening: 3-6 months.
A few months after it’s opened, mascara will start to dry out. Like other liquid makeup, it can accumulate bacteria, which can lead to potential irritation and infection. If you have sensitive eyes, we recommend switching out your mascara every three months. However, if your mascara still glides on smoothly and doesn’t irritate your eyes, it can last you up to six months. The same holds true for liquid eyeliner — it can accumulate bacteria quickly and should be tossed out around the same time as mascara.
LIPSTICK
Period after opening: 1 year.
Many lipsticks not only stay on all day, but they also have a long period after opening. You can keep opened lipsticks for up to 2 years, and then toss them, as they can start to grow bacteria that can cause skin irritation. Once again, your liquid lipsticks will have a shorter lifespan once opened (probably 1 year max), as the liquid formula will crack and dry out.
When in Doubt, Discard
By being mindful of expiration dates and practicing good makeup hygiene, you can ensure that your beauty routine remains both safe and effective. Fresh makeup not only performs better but also keeps your skin happy and healthy. Take a moment to audit your makeup collection today – your skin will thank you! Remember, beauty should enhance your natural features and boost your confidence, not compromise your health. Stay informed, stay safe, and keep your makeup fresh for a flawless and healthy glow.
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