shelflifecosmetics

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

P arabens in Skincare