Makeup can transform your look and boost confidence, but using products beyond their safe lifespan can cause skin irritation, infections and breakouts. Many people hold on to makeup for years without realising that it does expire. Knowing when to let go of old products is just as important as knowing how to apply them.
Here is a simple guide to how long you should be using your makeup products and the signs that it is time to replace them.
Why makeup expiry matters
Makeup products contain oils, water and preservatives. Over time, these ingredients break down and allow bacteria and fungi to grow. This is especially risky for products used around the eyes and mouth. Expired makeup may not only perform poorly but can also harm your skin.
Most products have a small open jar symbol on the packaging with a number followed by the letter M. This tells you how many months the product is safe to use after opening.
Foundation and concealer
Liquid foundation and concealer should usually be used for six to twelve months after opening. If the texture becomes watery, separates, smells odd or causes irritation, it is time to throw it away.
Cream-based products tend to expire faster than powder ones because they contain more moisture.
Powder products
Powder foundation, blush, bronzer and setting powder can last up to two years if stored properly. Always keep the lid tightly closed and use clean brushes to reduce bacteria transfer.
If the powder hardens on the surface, smells unusual or stops applying smoothly, it should be replaced.
Mascara
Mascara has one of the shortest lifespans. It should be replaced every three to six months. The eye area is very sensitive, and old mascara can easily cause eye infections.
If your mascara smells strange, becomes clumpy or dries out, stop using it immediately.
Eyeliner
Liquid and gel eyeliners should be replaced after three to six months. Pencil eyeliners last longer and can be used for up to one to two years, especially if you sharpen them regularly.
Any stinging sensation or change in texture is a sign that the product has expired.
Eyeshadow
Powder eyeshadows can last up to two years, while cream eyeshadows should be replaced after six to twelve months.
If the colour payoff changes, the texture becomes chalky or the product irritates your eyes, it is best to discard it.
Lipstick and lip gloss
Lipsticks and lip glosses generally last one to two years. Because they come into direct contact with the mouth, bacteria can build up quickly.
If the smell changes, the texture becomes grainy or the colour looks different, do not continue using it.
Makeup tools matter too
Even fresh makeup can become unsafe if applied with dirty brushes or sponges. Wash brushes at least once a week and replace sponges every one to three months, depending on usage.
How to make your makeup last safely
Store makeup in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Always close lids tightly after use
Avoid sharing makeup with others
Use clean hands and tools during application
Holding on to old makeup may feel economical, but your skin and eyes deserve better. Regularly checking your products and knowing when to replace them helps you maintain healthy skin and ensures your makeup always performs at its best. When in doubt, it is safer to throw it out.