If you’re a normal person, you probably still own a blush compact or mascara that could be around five years old, and you definitely still use them. Apparently, you’ve been doing it all wrong. The actual expiry date written on the outside of your makeup product is not what determines when you should throw it out. Each specific makeup product has its own unwritten expiry date.
Here is a list of every makeup product and when it is time to get rid of them:
Liquid and cream foundation: 2 years
Concealer: 2 years
Powder foundation: 2 years
Mascara: 6 months (try not to cry!)
Lipstick: 12 to 18 months
Lip and eye pencils: 12 to 18 months
Eye shadow: 2 years
Eye liner: 6 to 12 months
Powder blush: 2 years
Cream blush: 2 years
Moisturizer: 2 years
Eye cream: 6 months
Sunscreen: 2 years
P.S. These timelines only apply from the day you open the makeup product – as long as it’s still sealed in its box, you don’t have to keep track of how long you’ve had it just yet.
You’re probably super shocked right now, because just like most of us, the lipstick you have on right now should have been thrown out a good two years ago.
But even if your products haven’t run out, you should still throw them out because it could do more damage to your skin than you think to use them. You can slightly cheat if it comes to getting rid of your absolute favourite mascara, because seriously, we feel you, but try to use this as your general guide. At the very least, it’s a valid enough excuse to go out and buy yourself new makeup! If you need us, we’ll be cleaning out our makeup bags.
Remember to stay up to date with our #EnigmaMakeupTips for makeup hacks and advice.
By: Nada Motawe