The bottom line is there is no way to tell how old that cosmetic item just by looking at the package. Cosmetics aren’t required by law to have expiration dates. From the time you open it, the life and effectiveness of the product decreases and the amount of bacteria increases.
Treat makeup products with care.
Keep cosmetics in a dry, cool area.
Throw makeup away if the color changes or an odor develops. Makeup has preservatives, similar to that in food, which can break down over time.
Get neat, clean and organized. Nothing lasts forever. For example:
When in doubt throw it out!
Eye Shadow
Powder last 1 to 2 years, cream 6 months to 1 year
Eyeliner
Pencil lasts 2 years, liquid lasts 3 to 6 months
Lipstick / Lip gloss
1 year (Throw it out if it gets dry or develops a smell)
Liquid Foundation
6 months to 1 year
Concealer
6 to 8 months
Mascara
3 to 6 months
Powder
2 to 3 years
Skin/body lotions
2 to 3 Years
Anti-aging products
3 to 6 months
Bath Oils
1 Year
Shampoos and conditioners
3 years
Shaving creams
2 Years
Hair products
3 to 5 years
Deodorant
1 year
Facial cleansers & moisturizers
6 months
Facial toners
1 year
Natural Cosmetics (“all-natural body washes”, etc.)
6 months, as “all natural” products often contain plant-derived ingredients (which are conducive to bacterial growth) and/or products with no preservatives.
Other tell tale signs your product has gone bad
The pigment fades in your powder
The item dries out
It smells funny
Becomes clumpy or has a strange consistency
The product crystalizes or separates
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