make-up expiration guides.

You have the best of memories together. Peachy cheeks on hot summer beaches, flirty lashes batted over a glass of red, glossy lips grinning freely. But the love affair just can’t last forever.

Sometimes, you have to clean out your makeup bag.

Parting ways can be hard, but holding on to your beauty product for too long welcomes bacteria into your skin, eyes and lips, so it’s best to say goodbye before the relationship gets toxic. Here’s our guide to product expiration dates.

Mascara

Mascara should be replaced every three months, since its liquid consistency makes it more vulnerable to bacteria, and its proximity to your eye can lead to possible infections.

Liquid Liner

Liquid eyeliners present the same concerns as mascara, so they should be replaced every six months. Pencil eyeliners, however, should last you up two years. Sharpen your pencil with each use to keep it fresh.

Foundation

For liquid foundations, say goodbye if you notice any change in smell, texture or color. Most foundations should last you up to a year, but if you’re prone to acne, think about tossing yours every six months.

Lipgloss

Because of the liquid consistency, lipgloss needs to be replaced more often than lipstick. Swap yours out every 12 months.

Concealer

As with liners, the longevity of concealers depends on consistency. Liquid concealer should be tossed after one year, but powder concealer is fine up to two years.

Nail Polish

If you notice a change in color or a funky smell, it’s time to part ways with your polish. In general, it should last you up to two years and some have expiration dates on the back of the bottle. 

Lipstick

Consider it a long-term relationship- lipstick can last up to two years! Dispose if your lipstick becomes dry or changes hues.

Powder, Blush, Bronzer, Eyeshadow

With proper care, and clean brushes, powder-based products can last for a couple of years.

My Tip: To keep track of your product expiration dates, write the date of purchase in sharpie on the bottom of each product so you’ll know when they pass their prime.

lots of love,

@iamsupermichal