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Lumina / Stocksy
In This Article
Expired makeup happens to the best of us.
But how seriousarethose expiration dates?
Lumina / Stocksy
Meet the Experts
What Happens to Expired Makeup Products?
“For example, contactdermatitismay present with red, itchy, scaly, swollen patches on the skin.
Also, bacteria and other microorganisms may eventually contaminate the product, predisposing your skin to infection.”
How does that play out for the makeup products that are sitting in your beauty bag right now?
Read on for the specifics.
This canas you may have guessedresult in breakouts.
“If a product is exposed to too much moisture, it may change consistency.
Moisture also creates an environment that enables the growth of bacteria and fungi,” notes Dr. Camp.
Feeling the urge to extend a product’s lifecycle by adding a little water?
You could be doing yourself more harm than good.
This is where possible problems can be created."
Bartlett suggests trying a smell test with your mascara.
“You’ll probably also be able to tell by the way the mascara goes onto your eyelashes.
If it doesn’t last throughout day, it’s another sign you need a new tube.”
Products may develop a smell because of the degradation of ingredients or because of contamination."
King suggests keeping bottle and jar caps tight after use so products won’t dry out.
But the good news is, these products have a lengthy shelf life.
“Dry powders and blushes housed in compact containers can actually last for several years,” Rouleau asserts.
If you notice a cakey consistency, it’s probably time to say goodbye.
This can make them cakey and difficult to apply."
Bacteria equals blemishes."
This can be a risk factor for developing a skin infection."
(Get the complete guide to sanitizing your makeup,here.)
Long-wearing liners can also dry out and lose their efficacy if exposed to the air."
Generally speaking, lipsticks have a shelf life of one year before you should begin to get wary.
Beware of changes in texture when it comes to lip products.
“If a product acquires a different color it may be an indication it has expired.
And don’t forget to check the consistency of your favorite lip gloss.
“Changes in texture may suggest a product should be replaced.
“Take note: Redness, irritation, and infection are all side effects of expired eye products.
Pencil eyeliners have a bit more staying power, generally expiring after one to two years.
That icon will generally have a number, followed by anM.
This number refers to the number of months after opening that a product is usable.
(In industry terms, this is known as thePAO,orperiod after opening.
It’s determined by stability studies on open products.)
When all else fails, there is a cosmetic calculator you’re free to refer toonline.
It could also mean that your skin has developed a sensitivity to an ingredient.
“Products that are more liquid in consistency tend to contain a higher water content.
They may expire faster than dry products because moisture enables the growth of bacteria,” explains Dr. Camp.
So, is it ever okay to continue using products after their expiration date?
Most experts agree that no cosmetic product should be used after three years from opening.
