How Long Does Make-up Last?

Make-up Shelf Life

Of course, make-up lasts for a shorter period of time if it is not stored properly and can last slightly longer if not used very often.
There are no U.S. laws or regulations that require cosmetics to have specific shelf lives or have expiration dates on their labels.[1] So, if there is a date on a cosmetic product it is a recommendation by the manufacturer.

How to tell if make-up has gone bad?

Any change in color, texture, aroma or consistency can alert to spoiled make-up.
If mascara begins to clump or smell bad, then it is bad. Yet, bacteria in eye make-up can go totally undetected! That’s why cosmetics that touch the eye are recommended to be replaced more often than those that do not touch the eyes. So, remember to toss mascara and liquid eyeliner in a timely matter without waiting for any tell-tale signs (the age old better safe than sorry saga!).

Never share eye make-up such as eyeliner and mascara, as bacteria can build easily in these moist environments and pass very quickly between eyes. Eyeliner pencils last longer than liquid eyeliner if the tip is sharpened often and kept covered when not in use.

Gels, balms and creams – anything that you dip into – should not be kept for as long as products that are not touched. Using clean cotton pads and swabs instead of fingers for dipping can help these products last longer.

Some common traits of spoiled foundation would be a separation of ingredients. Combinations can only last as long as each separate ingredient. Any texture change in lipsticks, blushes and nail polish is a red flag. Gel lid glosses will become thick and sticky, cream lipsticks may begin to break up, eyeshadows may crack, nail polish will thicken.