The Lifespan Of Cosmetics

A crucial part of owning cosmetics is knowing when to throw them away.  

Cosmetics are NOT required by law to have an expiration date, so it’s important to keep tabs on your brands.  Manufacturers should provide information about the shelf-life of their products, as part of their responsibility to enforce product safety, but most often than not, beauty products come with little more than the pretty box they came in. 


You should know that as soon as you pop the top or slide the wand inside, bacteria will begin to grow & the product’s effectiveness will start to decrease. 

• All makeup should be kept in a cool, dry place.
• If your products change color, consistency, or smell, you should throw them away.
• Cosmetics with substantial natural ingredients, or no preservatives, have a shorter shelf life.
• Bottles with wide mouths expose more air & spoil sooner.

The following chart makes it easy:

Product	Expires
Mascara	2 - 3 months
Foundation	Liquid 3 - 6 months; Powders up to 1 year
Concealer	6 - 8 months
Blush/Bronzer	6 - 8 months
Eye shadow	Powder 9 - 18 months; Cream 6 - 12 months
Eyeliner	Pencil One year; Liquid/Gel 6 - 12 months
Lipstick / lip gloss	One year
Lip liner	One year

Keep in mind that sharing makeup, whether with family or friends, increases the risk of contamination.  When trying new products at the department store be sure to use a clean cotton swab, fresh applicator, or brand new wand.  


"Testers" are more likely to become contaminated than your own products.  Even if you are conscientious about your application, others may not be.  Many stores have return policies on cosmetics, so you can buy & try before you wind up with a sty in your eye.