Using makeup products that are more than a few years old can pose risks to your skin and health due to the breakdown of ingredients and the potential for bacterial growth. Here is a guide on what makeup items you should consider replacing and the general lifespan of common makeup products:
Mascara: Replace every 3-6 months. Old mascara can harbor bacteria and cause eye infections.
Eyeliner: Replace every 6-12 months for liquid or gel liners, and every 12-18 months for pencil liners. Liquid and gel formulas are more prone to bacterial growth.
Eyeshadow: Replace every 12-24 months for powder eyeshadows and every 6-12 months for cream eyeshadows. Cream formulas are more likely to harbor bacteria.
Foundation: Replace liquid foundations every 6-12 months and powder foundations every 12-18 months. Liquid foundations can separate and change consistency over time.
Concealer: Replace every 12-18 months. Liquid concealers can separate and harbor bacteria, while stick or cream concealers can become dry and difficult to apply.
Blush/Bronzer: Replace every 18-24 months for powder formulas and every 12-18 months for cream formulas. Powder products have a longer lifespan but can become hard and lose pigmentation.
Lipstick/Lip Gloss: Replace every 12-24 months. Old lip products can become dry or change in texture and taste.
Nail Polish: Replace every 12-24 months. Nail polish can become thick and difficult to apply over time.
Skincare Products: Replace every 6-12 months for most products, especially those with active ingredients like retinoids, vitamin C, and benzoyl peroxide. These ingredients can degrade and become less effective.
Sunscreen: Replace every 12 months or by the expiration date. Sunscreen ingredients can break down and become less effective.
If all your makeup is pre-pandemic, it’s likely over 3 years old, meaning most, if not all, should be replaced to ensure you’re using safe and effective products. Additionally, using fresh makeup can improve application and results, as older products can change in texture, color, and effectiveness.
