Give your makeup collection an edit and your tools a proper cleaning this spring.
When you’ve found the perfect lipstick, it’s tempting to hold onto it forever. But “cosmetics do expire,” says Dr. Sarah Vickery, principal scientist for Cover Girl. “Most have a shelf life of one to three years,” she says. But that’s when makeup’s unopened. Once you start using a product, you’re introducing bacteria to your product and this is why you should be regularly editing your cosmetic bag and trash-binning those that need to go—even if it’s your favourite shade ever.
Signs of a product that is past its’ prime? “If the product has a different odour, if it’s changed consistency—for example, if it’s less viscous than before—or if it’s become cloudy when it used to be clear, or if the emulsion has broken and separated,” she says. The length of time you can keep a product depends on what it is and how you use it.
Cosmetics and when they expire
- “Mascara has the shortest shelf life because the eyes are so sensitive and prone to infection,” says Vickery. A tube of mascara should be replaced every three to four months.
- Eyeshadows, powder blushes, lipsticks and the like are good for a few years. “Anhydrous products—that is, products that don’t contain water last longer—given that bacteria grows over time in water.”
- Foundations are good for one year.
- Pencils have the most longevity. Lip and eye liners can last up to three years, as long as you sharpen them regularly, she says, adding that you shouldn’t wet them with saliva.
Make your makeup last longer
To make your makeup last as long as possible, practice good hygiene. “Wash your hands before applying your makeup and your face should be clean as well, along with your applicators,” says Vickery. Although the bathroom is a humid environment (and therefore ripe for bacteria growth), she recognizes that it’s not practical for most women to store and apply their makeup elsewhere. “As long as you’re not keeping your cosmetics on the dash of your car, you shouldn’t need to alter the conditions how you use and store them.” Just make sure to twist on the lids tightly, don’t swap makeup with your friends and follow the simple guidelines above and you’ll be in tip-top shape.
How to care for your makeup tools on the next page ...
