There are fewer things in life more painful than a breakup. But thus is the nature of life, as not all relationships are meant to last forever, and are actually harmful for you the longer they go on. This applies to both human and makeup relationships. Take mascara, for example. You love Mascara, and Mascara loves you, but it’s doomed from the start. Mascara lovingly tries to warn you of this- first with its expiration date on its box, then by changing its smell and consistency. And if you don’t heed either of those warnings, its final signal is pink eye or worse, when you’re then forced to dump the tube once and for all. But the breakup didn’t have to be that painful if you just would’ve gone into the relationship knowing its expiration date.
So ladies, follow your heart to the makeup counter, but take your brain with you. You know these beauty purchases can’t last forever, and while it’s always best to check the box of each product you buy for its individual expiration date, here’s an awesomely handy little chart (from Makeup.com) that gives you a general outline of when it’s time to breakup with your makeup, with some must-follow tips below.
General Rules: Powdered makeup tend to have a longer shelf life then liquids, so be more consistent with swapping out anything liquid. Pay attention the color, consistency, and smell of your products when they’re brand new so that you’re able to detect changes, which are usually a sign it’s time to buy new.
The most important expiration date to stick to is that of mascara (3 months) and liquid eyeliners (6 months), and for the safety of the windows to your soul, don’t go past it. Remember having pink eye in grade school? It’s even less cute as an adult.
Products you’re applying over the face, like liquid foundation or facial moisturizer, are also incredibly important expiration dates to abide (6 months to 1 year). Last we checked, no one is a fan of breakouts, and using old products whose formulas have turned, or that have picked up bacteria is not the way to healthy, clear skin.
Lip glosses are also liquid, thus turn quicker (1 year or less) than lipsticks (which can last up to 2 years).
Makeup should be stored in a cool, dry place that’s bacteria free- that doesn’t include a bathroom. So try to store it in a different room if possible.
Always wash your hands before applying makeup, but either way, try to keep your fingers out of your products, especially liquids. They’re breeding grounds for bacteria as it as, and don’t need any help from your filthy little fingers.
We’ve already discussed the importance of washing and changing your towel that you use on your face, and the same goes for anything that’s touching your face. Wash all makeup brushes frequently, especially those used to apply foundation, which you should wash after each use. If using a sponge, be even more diligent, and replace often (every 1-3 months).
