Are you uncertain when to discard old beauty products?
While many cosmetics are usable for up to a year after being opened, water-free items like powders can last even longer. Even with the use of preserving agents, however, your makeup and skincare won’t stay fresh forever – take care to replace them regularly!
A relatively unknown industry secret is the Period-After-Opening (PAO) symbol that can be found on product packaging. It’s a jar with an open lid and a number inside such as 6M, 12M, 24M or 30M which informs you of how long your products are usable after opening them. If there isn’t an obvious PAO label displayed, then here are our recommendations for when to get rid of opened items in absence of their original boxes.
- Using mascara daily, a tube will last 3 to 6 months. To ensure your lashes stay looking fresh and voluminous for longer, resist the temptation of pumping the wand in and out of the tube – that pumps oxygen into it which causes it to dry quicker!
- If you’re looking for a Vitamin C Serum that will last, look no further! 100% Pure has revolutionized the concept of Vitamin C serums, allowing them to be used up to two years – not just 6 months like previously recommended. This groundbreaking product is guaranteed to provide long-lasting benefits and keep your skin feeling soft and refreshed!
- Eyeliner: For optimum protection, it is recommended that you replace your eyeliner every 12 months. Due to the area of application close in proximity to your eyes – an especially sensitive region which is vulnerable to infection – take care not to directly touch the product with this delicate part of your face. Additionally, sharpen pencil liners regularly as a preventative measure against any potential bacteria build-up on the surface.
- Renewing your lipstick, gloss and lip liner supply should be done annually as these products usually contain nourishing oils that can expire over time. For an optimum experience with bold colors and lasting shine.
- Make sure to replace your liquid foundation every 12 months! As a sign that it is time for a new bottle, you may notice the color shifting after application if the product has been used for an extended period.
- Your concealer will last 12 months if you use a brush to apply it properly. To avoid cross-contamination and germs, avoid double dipping your brush into the product – instead, scoop up some of the concealer onto a separate palette (like the back of your hand) using a clean concealer brush so you can easily access it when needed. Especially do this when concealing acne!
- Sunscreen: 12 Months. Did you know that The Skin Cancer Foundation states the shelf life of sunscreen can range from two to three years? However, it’s best to pay attention to the expiration date marked on your bottle and use up all of its contents within twelve months – a simple task if you’re wearing sunscreen every day!
- Make your facials and eye creams last up to one year with the right storage! To keep things hygienic, opt for a tube option instead of a jar. But if you still prefer jars, be sure to start with clean hands before handling any product within it. With thoughtful routine maintenance, you can be certain that each application is fresh and safe!
- For optimal safety, you should replace your cleanser, serum, mask and exfoliants every 12 months. If products contain Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHAs), they may last longer – however it is still important to switch them up at the one-year mark for maximum results.
- Powder, Blush & Eye Shadow: 12-24 months. Because powders lack water, they are not at risk of bacterial growth; bacteria thrive in dark and damp environments.
- Storing body lotions and hand creams safely over time? No problem! You can trust that your products—whether in tubes, pumps, or jars—will last for up to 30 months. That’s two-and-a-half years of luxurious hydration with no fear of expiration.
Don’t Waste Your Time: Here are the Signs You Should Discard Your Cosmetics
Are you aware of any changes in your go-to cosmetics? If so, it’s time to reflect on the products you use. A great way to keep tabs on them is by labeling each product with a permanent marker that includes when it was purchased and when opened. Has the smell altered? Is there now a different color or texture than before? Did you get an eye infection or cold sore recently? Have new breakouts surfaced outside of their normal cycle?! These are all signs that something may not be right – heed these warnings!
Learn the Art of Prolonging Your Makeup for Lasting Beauty!
- Make sure to regularly clean your makeup brushes – it’s essential for healthy skin! Your brushes tend to accumulate a plethora of oils from your skin, dead cells and leftover product over time, so make sure you deep clean them using baby shampoo or cleanser at least once every week. For additional hygiene benefits, use a Brush Cleaner between uses. You won’t believe the amount of product that comes out through cleaning these bristles!
- Be judicious when it comes to sharing. Although usually it’s acceptable to share personal items, mascara is absolutely off limits! Professional makeup artists understand the importance of hygiene and always opt for disposable options instead. As an extra precautionary measure, if you plan on sharing lipsticks with someone else, make sure that you use a clean lip brush or dip the bullet in alcohol beforehand to sanitize them properly.
- Wash your hands.
- Ensure that you close your products after each use to avoid airborne and microbial contamination. Make certain the bottle cap is securely fastened, as well as the jar lid tightly sealed.
- After you finish your meal, don’t forget to wipe off any food residue from your lips before reapplying lip products.
To ensure the quality of your products is maintained, store them in a cool and dry place. As advised by the FDA, storage at an excessively high temperature might cause microorganisms to develop faster than usual which may result in quicker spoilage due to preservatives breakdown. Moreover, it’s preferable that you keep your items away from bathrooms as such environments are usually damp and humid – setting up your vanity elsewhere can be beneficial!