How to know when cosmetics expire.

Cosmetics are high in water content, so they are a breeding ground for bacteria. Since cosmetics companies are not required to put expiration dates on their products, knowing when to throw out certain items is crucial to your health. As a rule, throw away any item if the color or odor changes, or if it separates or becomes hard to apply. Below is a list of items and the approximate time you can use them before they'll go bad.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 

   MAKEUP:
   
   Foundation and concealer- 6 Months. If they are in a jar, use a brush or sponge, because dipping your fingers in will contaminate it sooner.
   
   Eyeliner- 3 to 6 months
   
   Lipliner- 6 to 12 months.
   
   Lipstick- 2 to 3 years.
   
   Mascara- 3 to 6 months. When mascara goes bad, it starts to smell funny and gets very gloppy and thick.
   
   Eyeshadow- 3-6 months
   
   Blush and face powder- 6-12 months
   
   Lip Balm- 1 to 2 years.
   
   Nail Polish- 1 year

2. 

   SKIN CARE:
   
   I don't like to store my skin care products in the bathroom, because the ever changing temperature and humidity can cause ingredients to break down sooner, and products to turn rancid faster.
   
   Moisturizer, cleanser and toner - 6 to 12 months
   
   Exfoliants- 6 to 12 months (Scrubs made with oils last longer than those that are water based.)
   
   Eye Cream- 6 to 12 months. (Tubes last longer than jars, which can be contaminated more easily)
   
   Sunscreen- 2 years (Make sure you keep in in a bag at the beach, out of direct sunlight).
   
   Self Tanner- 3 to 6 months.

3. 

   HAIR PRODUCTS:
   
   Shampoo and Conditioner- 6 to 12 months
   Styling Products- 1 year or more. (Gels or other products with high alcohol content can last for several years)

4. 

   PERFUME:
   
   Perfume can last for 3 years. It lasts longest if it is stored in a cool dark place, preferably in it's original box. Even longer if stored in the refrigerator. You can preserve a scent longer by pouring it into a smaller bottle when the original bottle is half empty. This reduces the amount of air in the bottle, which can cause the scent to change over time. It's time to get rid of it if you start to see sediment in the bottle or it changes color or scent.

Tips & Warnings

• Things to remember:
• Wash your hands before touching makeup or skincare products.
• Keep cosmetics and toiletries out of sunlight and away from heat, as these can degrade preservatives. This includes the bathroom, where heat and moisture abound.
• Keep everything tightly sealed when not in use.
• Don't keep cosmetics in your car.
• Don't share products with others.
• Don't add water to either cosmetics or skin care products, because this introduces bacteria.
• Throw out anything that shows signs of unpleasant odors, discoloration or separation.

[Felicity]

on 10/14/2008 Very helpful info - thanks!

[StarrySkye]

on 10/14/2008 This is really good to know. I usually just use mine til it's gone...which is usually longer than mentioned above...thanks!