How long do cosmetics last?
Here’s a list of commonly used cosmetics and their expected shelf life… 1. Mascara – will usually last 2 months or when the label is worn off, it clumps, specks, or becomes dry or smells bad 2. Foundation – has a shelf life of 18-24 months. 3. Powder – Expect 2 years unless it becomes dry or has an odor other than its original fragrance. You can protect your powder from contamination by being sure to change your sponge or powder puff after every application. Sponges are a haven for breeding bacteria and the fastest way to pass on germs. 4. Lip Pencils -1 year- Always dip in alcohol-kills germs 5. Eye pencils -Typically 3 months. Always sharpen or dip in alcohol after each use. Either of these methods will kill germs. 6. Eye Shadow and Blush – dry, loss of pigment. Always wipe off with alcohol 7. Brushes – When your brushes start to look like fans and the tips become colored. Keep brushes clean with brush cleaner or alcohol. I use alcohol for sterilizing my brushes and applicators. Us
You may not be able to use eye make-up, such as mascara, eyeliner, and eye shadow for as long as other products. This is because of the risk of eye infection. Some experts recommend replacing mascara three months after purchase. If mascara becomes dry, throw it away. Don’t add water or, even worse, saliva to moisten it. That will bring bacteria into the product. You may also need to watch certain “all natural” products that contain substances taken from plants. These products may be more at risk for bacteria. Since these products contain no preservatives or have non-traditional ones, your risk of infection may be greater. If you don’t store these products as directed, they may expire before the expiration date. For example, cosmetics stored in high heat may go bad faster than the expiration date. On the other hand, products stored the way they should be can be safely used until they expire.
