MAKE-UP EXPIRY DATES

It’s hard to say goodbye to your favourite lipstick, but it’s important to abide by make-up expiration dates. Why is that, you ask. Cosmetics can trap bacteria over time and therefore need to be replaced regularly to avoid introducing harmful or irritating bacteria to the skin or eyes. Most products will have an expiry date or a best-before date printed on the package but the following guidelines should be followed from the first day you use them.

LIQUID/CREAM FOUNDATIONS AND CONCEALERS

Two years To keep your foundation or concealers hygienic avoid using your fingers. Instead, use a clean spatula or squeeze a small amount onto the back of your hand or palette before applying. If the formula separates, the colour changes, or has a bad odour, it’s time to throw it out.

FOUNDATION/ TRANSLUCENT POWDERS

Two years Keep make-up brushes clean to keep your pressed powder products bacteria-free. Signs that the product should not be used include a smell or if the colour looks “off ”.

MASCARA

Four to six months Do not use a pump action. This introduces air into the product, causing it to dry out. Instead, twist your mascara wand for maximum product coating. If you notice your mascara getting clumpy or starting to smell, throw it out immediately.

LIPSTICK

One year Store lipstick in a cool, dry place. Throw out if you notice the texture change, if it feels dry or smells waxy.

LIP AND EYE PENCILS

One year Sharpen pencils between uses to keep hygienic.

GEL LINER

Two months Gel liner traps bacteria more easily and should only be used for a few months.

EYESHADOW POWDERS

Two years While powder shadows can last as long as face powders (about two years), they should be replaced more often since they’re used around your eyes.

EYESHADOW CREAMS

12 to 18 months

POWDER BLUSH

Two years

CREAM BLUSH

12 to 18 months

EYE CREAM

Six months Always use clean hands when applying them, to help keep the tubes and pots germ-free.

SUNSCREEN

Two years

FACE CREAM

One to two years, depending on ingredients. Natural and plant based ingredients spoil more quickly. Check labels carefully.

FRAGRANCE

Eight to 10 years To maximise shelf life, keep perfume out of direct sunlight

NAIL POLISH

One to two years Avoid heat and direct sunlight as this will cause discolouration and the formula to separate.