Makeup Expiration Dates

Attention. This post is not only informative, but will also keep you from looking like a zombie.


I'm a hoarder. There. I said it. There is something about makeup that makes me not want to get rid of it. Ever. That Clinique gift set I got when I was 16? Still got it. That lipstick color that was all the rage a couple of years ago? Yup.

But you see, this creates a problem. Not only for my skin and health, but also for those around me. Because let's face it. No one likes a girl with an eye infection. And that is exactly what you'll get if you're using expired makeup.

The concept of throwing away expired makeup is new to me, since I'm a makeup hoarder. But it is something that everyone should be aware of.

So here's what you need to know.

Liquid Foundation
     Foundation is the foundation of our makeup. (ha!) But unfortunately it lasts about the shortest amount of time. After about 3-6 months, your foundation is done-zo. So throw it away!

Concealer
     Your concealer can easily get bacteria on it from dabbing it on your face. So typically keep it for only 3 months.

Powders
    That includes your eye shadows, ladies. 1 year. So enjoy 'em while they last.

Mascara
     If you listen to anything from this post, listen to this one. 3 months. No longer. Remember that eye infection I was talking about? You don't want one of those.

Eye & Lip Pencils
     1 year. But make sure you're sharping them once a week.  That will get rid of any lingering bacteria.

Lip Gloss/Stick
     This is what I'm most guilty of. I can't seem to throw any lipstick away. But I must. Every year.

Brushes
     While not technically your makeup, they are a part of your routine. So make sure you're cleaning them with a brush cleaner once a week.

Sponges
     These things can get nast-y. So make sure you're replacing them every week. That's every week.