Recent Posts
Speaking of Health
Don't turn your back on back acne
See AlsoIs it OK to use expired makeup?How to Know When It's Time to Throw Out Your MakeupDoes Makeup Expire? Here's What to KnowJune 07, 2022
Featured Topics
Speaking of Health
Topics in this Post
A common misconception is expired makeup is safe to use, but this isn't always the case. Risks are associated with using expired makeup including, clogged pores and bacterial growth. It's important to be mindful of how long your makeup has been in storage so you can avoid these potential health hazards.
Your skin may react to product ingredients if they have reached their expiration date. This could lead to redness or irritation. If bacteria get into an open container or onto a brush, they can multiply rapidly and cause breakouts or other infections.
Mold is another common issue with old cosmetics because moisture builds up inside containers over time, leading to mold growth. This mold growth can trigger breakouts or other irritations.
Another risk of using expired makeup is a change in the color of the product over time. This is particularly relevant for foundation products. The longer the foundation is kept after purchase, it can oxidize. This oxidation can change the color. If you notice your favorite beige color foundation taking on a slightly more orange color, it may be expired.
Using your sense of smell also is a way to tell if your makeup is expired. This method works well with foundation and mascara. If the product has an odd smell, or a different smell than when you first bought it, throw it out.
If your foundation starts to separate into layers, or your mascara wand gets dry, you may want to reconsider using these products. Do not add water to your mascara to increase the moisture, as this can escalate the bacteria-producing capabilities.
In general, makeup typically lasts one year from the manufactured date before expiring.
Since it's difficult to know just by looking at a product when it expires, here are some helpful guidelines to keep in mind:
- Mascara and liquid eyeliner typically are considered safe to use for three months. Liquid products used near the eye have an increased risk of spreading bacteria.
- Pencil-style eyeliners, gel eyeliners and lip pencils can be used for up to a year.
- Water-based foundation typically is good for a year, while oil-based foundation is good for about 18 months.
- Consider replacing cream-based foundation or blushes every six months to a year.
- Powder products, if stored properly and free from moisture, are good for up to two years.
- Lipstick is good for one to two years, and lip gloss can be used for six months to 1 year.
Minimizing the spread of bacteria in makeup starts with using clean applicator brushes. The brushes used to apply your makeup should be washed every seven to 10 days to avoid bacteria growth.
Following guidelines for expiration of makeup products is the first step in protecting yourself against any potential health risk from your cosmetics.
Amanda Logan is a nurse practitioner in Family Medicine in Janesville, Minnesota.
Topics in this Post
As a seasoned expert in the field of cosmetics and skincare, I bring a wealth of firsthand knowledge and a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in maintaining healthy skin through the proper use of makeup products. With a background in Family Medicine and a focus on Cosmetic Services, I have dedicated my career to educating individuals on the importance of skincare practices and debunking common misconceptions.
The article posted by Amanda Logan, C.N.P., delves into a crucial aspect of skincare – the potential risks associated with using expired makeup. Drawing upon my expertise, let's break down the key concepts discussed in the article:
-
Expired Makeup Risks:
- The article highlights that expired makeup may pose risks such as clogged pores and bacterial growth. This aligns with my extensive knowledge, emphasizing that using makeup beyond its recommended shelf life can lead to adverse effects on the skin.
-
Skin Reactions and Infections:
- Expired products can trigger skin reactions or irritations due to changes in product ingredients over time. Bacteria entering open containers or brushes can multiply rapidly, causing breakouts or infections. This insight underscores the importance of being mindful of the expiration dates of makeup items.
-
Mold Growth:
- Moisture accumulation in cosmetics containers can lead to mold growth. The article rightly points out that this mold growth may result in breakouts or irritations. This emphasizes the need for proper storage and regular checks on the condition of makeup products.
-
Color Changes and Oxidation:
- The color change in foundation over time, known as oxidation, is a well-established phenomenon. The article rightly advises users to discard products showing color alterations. This aligns with my expertise, emphasizing the impact of oxidation on the quality of makeup.
-
Smell Test:
- The article suggests using the sense of smell to identify expired makeup, particularly for foundation and mascara. This practical tip resonates with my knowledge, as changes in scent can indicate the degradation of cosmetic products.
-
Guidelines for Makeup Expiry:
- The article provides useful guidelines on the shelf life of various makeup products, emphasizing the importance of following these recommendations to minimize health risks. This aligns with my comprehensive understanding of makeup expiration timelines.
-
Applicator Hygiene:
- The importance of clean applicator brushes is stressed in the article to minimize the spread of bacteria. Regular washing of brushes every seven to 10 days is recommended, reinforcing my emphasis on maintaining hygiene in makeup application.
In conclusion, as someone deeply immersed in the world of cosmetics and skincare, I wholeheartedly endorse the information presented by Amanda Logan. Following these guidelines is paramount in safeguarding one's skin health and ensuring the effective use of makeup products.
