The Makeup Expiry Dates You Must Know

Do you remember the last time you cleaned out your makeup bag? How long have you been using your favourite palettes for? The chances are that if you haven't done a good clean out in a while that you will find some expired products.

But how do you know if a product is expired? Well, most products will have a small label on the packaging indicating how long their lifespan is but if you notice a change in colour, smell or texture, these are also clear signs that a product is inspired. If you don't have the packaging anymore or the label has rubbed off this is where I am here to help. In the list below you will find the shelf life of every kind of makeup product. In this article, you will also find tips on how to keep your products for as long as possible or clear signs that you need to bin them. What are you waiting for? Empty out your makeup bag and start cleaning.

1. Eyeliner, Brow Pencil and Lip Liner: 6 months - 1 year

Pencil eyeliners typically last longer than liquid or pot eyeliner and the same thing goes for brow products. This is because a pencil can be sharpened, creating a fresh start each time whereas a pot or liquid is constantly touching your eye and collecting bacteria.

2. Mascara: 3-6 months

The best way to keep your mascara for a full 6 months is to not pump it. When you pump your mascara you are adding air into the bottle with dries out the formula and breeds bacteria.

3. Powders, Blushes and Eyeshadow: 1-2 years

Check powder products for discolouration or funny smells. These are indications that they may be expired or contaminated. Powders will last longer than wet products so if you want a foundation that will last it is better to choose a powdered option.

4. Foundation: 6 months - 1 year

Pumped foundation tends to last the longest compared to stick or bottled foundation. The pump allows a smaller amount of product to be released onto the applicator making the product last longer. Stick foundations are constantly in contact with the skin causing them to not last as long.

5. Lipstick: 2 years

Obvious changes in shade, texture or scent are signs that its time to part ways with your lipstick. To make them last longer, wipe off your lipsticks or spray them with alcohol giving them a fresh start each time.

6. Concealer and Lip Gloss: 1 year

The applicator of concealer is double-dipped transferring the bacteria from your face into the formula. Try pouring your concealer onto a sponge to make it last even longer and to keep it cleaner. This also applies to lip gloss which means that investing in disposable applicators can help you savour your favourite lip glosses.

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- xoxo Miss Makeup