FACIAL CARE TIP
SHELF LIFE OF COSMETICS
"Most products remain safe and
effective to use for two-three years, if
container remains unopen, once jar
is open 3 months to 1 year...... read
on....."
Mascara: 3-6 months
These should be used quickly because they're easily contaminated.
Every time you push the brush back into the container, you're
pushing air in too, and bacteria. The wet consistency of mascara
makes it a breeding ground for bacteria. Don't open more than one
bottle of the same colour at a time. Start a new tube of mascara on
the first of a month, or circle the three-month date on your calendar to
remind you to pick up a new one.
Moisturizer: 3 months to a year once container is open! Depending
how natural the product is, but most companies recommend 6
months to a year!
Oil-free foundation: 1 year
Without the oils, they dry out more quickly and become clumpy. They
can also become darker, giving you a tan you don't want! If the
foundation starts to look strange or smell bad, or if the ingredients
start to separate, throw it out.
Products with SPF: 1 season
When the summer ends, toss that bottle of sunscreen. They lose their
effectiveness to block out UVA and UVB rays and can stain skin and
clothes.
Blush or foundation sponges: 1 week
You don't need to throw sponges out, but you do need to wash them
every week. Use soapy water and allow them to dry naturally and fully
before you place it back in the compact to avoid encouraging bacteria.
Concealer: 12-18 months
Liquid based concealers may start to separate when they're going
bad. Once this happens, toss it. Like mascara, pushing the brush
back into the container can cause bacteria to start, so wipe the brush
after each use. If you're covering a blemish that may be infected or
contain bacteria, use your finger to apply the concealer instead of a
brush so you keep the germs from spreading.
Powder foundation or blush: 2 years
Over time, they get cakey and dried out, making them difficult to apply.
Eyeshadow: powder: 2 years; cream 12-18 months
Cream eye shadows have emulsions that break down over time. Avoid
touching the inner part of your eye with the brush. Wash brushes at
least once a week. Don't use shadow if you have an eye infection,
and if you discover an eye irritation, discard any eye shadows you
were using for the few weeks prior.
Eyeliner: 2 years
Sharpening them helps with bacterial growth, so they're actually fairly
safe to use. If you get an eye infection, throw it out.
Lip liner: 2 years
Like eyeliner, sharpening helps them. However, if you get a cold sore
or another irritation, do not use the lip liner again, instead it's time to
throw it out. Keep out of sunlight to preserve it.
Lipstick: 2 years
The pigment and oils preserve lipstick. If you get a cold sore, throw
out the lipstick. If you use a lip brush, wash it twice a week.
Lip gloss: up to 2 years
Throw it out if you get a cold sore. If you get lipstick on the applicator,
wipe it clean to avoid mixing ingredients.
Fragrance: up to 2 years
They contain alcohol, a natural preservative. When it starts to smell
unpleasant or strong, discard it. Prolong its life by keeping it in the
fridge or out of direct sunlight. Fragrances are a common cause of
allergies and irritations, so if you notice one, stop using the fragrance.
Nail Polish: 2 years