The Dangers of Using Old Makeup: When to Replace Your Favourites

Every makeup enthusiast knows the pain of parting ways with a favourite lipstick or mascara tube. It’s a heartbreak, especially if the product has been discontinued or is on the expensive side. However, hanging on to makeup products well past their prime is not just undesirable but can potentially harm your skin. It’s crucial to understand the dangers of using old makeup and when it’s time to replace your favourite cosmetics.

A simple, often overlooked cosmetic such as a face primer can hide more dangers than you might think. The very task of face primer is to serve as a barrier between your skin and the rest of the cosmetics you apply. Naturally, that makes it the first line of defense from your makeup. However, if it is too old, it may no longer protect, nor will it enhance the wear of your makeup. Out-of-date products tend to lose their efficacy and can sometimes harbor bacteria, leading to skin irritations and infections.

The Perils of Expired Makeup

The most common consequence of using expired makeup is skin irritation. This includes redness, rash, bumps, or even severe allergic reactions. The longer a product is exposed to air, the more likely it will become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria and fungi. This is especially true for eye products, where such organisms could result in conjunctivitis, styes, or keratitis. Lip products, too, can trigger cold sores, especially in people with an underlying infection. 

Apart from skin concerns, expired makeup simply does not perform its intended function. Colors may not be as vibrant, mascara might clump, and face products, like a primer, may not smooth your complexion as expected, leaving you with patchy applications and a far-from-desirable appearance.

How to Detect Old Makeup 

The easiest way to determine whether your makeup has outlived its shelf life is to check the Period After Opening (PAO) recommendation. This is usually represented by a tiny jar symbol with a number indicating the product’s lifespan in months after it’s been opened. However, some cosmetics might look and smell perfectly fine even after their prescribed time frame. Trust your senses – if it smells off, changes color or texture, or does not apply the same way, it’s time to toss it away.

Shelf Life of Common Makeup Items

To give you a clearer picture, let’s break down the average shelf life of the most common makeup items.

  • Mascara and liquid eyeliner: These should be replaced every three months since they are most prone to bacterial contamination.
  • Foundations, concealers, and face primer: Many of these last up to six months to a year. Remember to close them tightly to avoid air exposure.
  • Lipsticks and lip glosses: Generally, these can be used up to a year. However, if they start to smell or taste strange, discard them immediately.
  • Powders such as eyeshadows, blushes, and setting powders: These typically have the longest lifespan, approximately up to two years.

Adopt a Regular Purge Routine 

To keep your skin safe and your makeup at its best, adopting a regular purge routine is essential. Keep a record of when you open your cosmetics and stick to replacement schedules. Remember that high-quality makeup is only valuable when it’s safe to use.

To Sum Up

While it’s hard to part with favourite makeup items, using old or expired products can lead to severe skin reactions, infections, and disappointing makeup results. Always check the shelf life of your cosmetics, and be mindful of changes in their colour, smell, or texture. Following a regular makeup replacement schedule is essential for both maintaining healthy skin and achieving flawless makeup. Plus, keeping your makeup fresh ensures it complements your outfit perfectly, helping you create a cohesive and polished look every time.

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