Duration of Lip Gloss, Makeup Products: A Look at Their Shelf Lifespans
In the world of beauty, it's essential to keep our makeup products fresh and safe. Here's a guide on how to identify expired makeup, dispose of it safely, and extend the shelf life of your cosmetics.
A clear warning sign that makeup has expired is a rancid, biting, or chemically altered smell. If you notice any unusual odour, it's best to discard the product. However, it's important to note that a product is not necessarily bad after the indicated time has passed, as long as it shows no abnormalities.
The colour of your makeup can also be a tell-tale sign. If the colour of powder or blush changes, or if liquid makeup products like foundations separate or become lumpy, it's time to say goodbye to them. Skin reactions such as itching, burning, or redness after application may also indicate an expired product.
The open jar symbol on makeup products indicates the recommended period of use after opening. For instance, "6M" means 6 months. This symbol is a helpful tool in determining when to toss your cosmetics.
Expired makeup can cause blemishes and acne due to bacterial growth. This is particularly true for products applied near the eyes like mascara or eyeliner. The eye area is particularly sensitive, and irritation or inflammation can occur quickly due to a dried-out mascara.
To dispose of expired makeup safely, avoid flushing products down the drain. Instead, seal them in a bag or container and discard them with regular trash to prevent environmental contamination. Some stores or beauty brands may offer recycling or take-back programs for cosmetics packaging.
To extend the shelf life of makeup, store products in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and humidity. Always close lids tightly after use. Washing hands before application and using clean brushes or applicators can also help. For liquid products, consider wiping the opening with an alcohol wipe regularly to limit bacteria buildup.
Following these steps helps maintain makeup safety and effectiveness longer and protects your skin and eyes from potential harm. Remember, using expired makeup poses serious health risks.
[1] Cosmetics Safety Database. (n.d.). Period After Opening (PAO) Symbol. Retrieved from https://www.cosmeticsinfo.org/ingredient/period-after-opening-pao-symbol
[2] FDA. (2020). How to Safely Use and Dispose of Expired Makeup. Retrieved from https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-products/how-safely-use-and-dispose-expired-makeup
[3] American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2020). Mascara and Your Eyes. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/mascara-and-your-eyes
[4] Beauty Independent. (2019). How to Properly Dispose of Expired Makeup. Retrieved from https://www.beautyindependent.com/how-to-properly-dispose-of-expired-makeup/
[5] The Environmental Working Group. (n.d.). Cosmetics and the Environment. Retrieved from https://www.ewg.org/environmental-health-news/article/cosmetics-and-environment
It's critical to be aware that an unusual smell in makeup products indicates expiration, and discarding them is advisable. Additionally, changes in color, separation, or lumpiness of makeup, or skin reactions following application, may also signify an expired product.
