Make-up Audit

Ever wondered when is it the right time to throw away your favourite lipstick after it’s been in your bag for months? Here is a guide for make-up shelf life

LIPSTICK (24 MONTHS)

Some of us don’t feel beautiful until we have put some colour on our lips. Lipstick contains water and has a waxy consistency. It can last up to a year if stored properly. Close the lid after use and apply it with a lip brush. If it becomes too dry or changes colour, it’s time to toss it out and get a new one.

MASCARA (3 MONTHS)

Even if you don’t wear make-up every day, you definitely wear mascara to open up your eyes. It’s a pity this popular gem doesn’t last as long as other products. Stop pumping your mascara in and out of the tube. This forces air into the tube, which results in bacteria build up. When it starts to look dry and clumpy, throw it away.

EYE MAKE-UP (12-24 MONTHS)

Powder eyeshadows can go up to two years, while cream eyeshadows can last up to a year because they have hydrating ingredients. Gel or liquid liners are more prone to bacteria contamination, so it’s ideal to change them every six months. Sharpening your pencil regularly will extend its shelf life.

FOUNDATION (6-12 MONTHS)

Do you save your favourite bottle of foundation so it can last you for years? Stop doing that now, because the product will definitely start clumping and separating over time. Liquids and creams contain water, oil and other hydrating properties that shorten their shelf life. From six months, they start going off and changing texture.

NAIL POLISH (24 MONTHS)

Raise your hand if you still have a nail polish that you bought six years ago but you just can’t throw away. Well, its time to chuck it! Once nail polish is opened, the ingredients evaporate and that causes it to thicken. You can use nail thinners to get the original texture, but once it starts changing colour, its time for a new one.

BLUSH (2 YEARS)

Not everyone is pro-blush, but if you own one, it can last you for years. Watch out for changes in texture such as when it starts becoming chalky or hard. Avoid double dipping, and wash your brushes regularly. Oils on your skin can transfer to the product, therefore affecting the colour and texture of the blush.

When it comes to organising and spring cleaning, we tend to focus on the closet. But what about your beauty stash? Time is ticking on that expensive jar of Lancôme saved for special occasions. Make-up has expiry dates and if used after that date it can cause severe damage to your skin. Keep in mind, an unopened product has a shelf life of at least three to five years.