The answer is yes. Makeup does have an expiry date, which is something I wasn't aware about until quite recently, and I'm awful at sticking to the dates so I thought I'd write a post to try and remind myself. In my experience, if it smells or looks a bit funky, it's not going anywhere near my face and that's the general rule I stick to, but there are expiration dates you should try and stick to wherever you can. It's a guide, and it isn't 100% true for every product. Products with expiration dates have a little pot thing with a number in it on them, so if you're stuck look for those on products too!
Primer: 12 months Foundation: Depending on the base of the foundation they can last from 12-18 months. An oil based foundation will last longer than a water based foundation. This is a product which is generally down to your judgment though, if it looks bad or the product has separated, I wouldn't risk it.
Concealer: Up to 12 monthsPowder Products: Up to 2 yearsEyeshadow: 2-3 yearsMascara: 3-6 months, this one definitely depends on how exposed to air it is. Do not pump your mascaras as this will let a hell of a lot more air in, causing it to dry out quicker.
Gel/Liquid Eyeliner: Up to 12 months, but these can also dry out quite quickly, so whenever it starts to go a bit crusty or it's hard to use I'd recommend throwing it out.
Pencil Products: It's advised to keep them for around 12 months, but if sharpened regularly they can last a lot longer.
Lipstick: This is a hard one, and one I don't normally stick to because they normally stay ok a lot longer than suggested. Most people say 1-2 years, but I just keep them until they look/smell bad, it's your own judgment really.
Nail Polish: 12 months usually, or when they start to dry up. You can get away with having them longer than this if they're kept in a cool dry place and away from sunlight, and refrain from taking them on planes.
Makeup Brushes: These can last you a lifetime if looked after properly, just wash them regularly, and replace as required.
Sponges: Sponges can not last you a lifetime, they pick up so much bacteria. Wash weekly, spot clean them whenever used if you can, and bin monthly at least.
I'm going to try and stick to these as much as I can because I hate the idea of putting bacteria ridden makeup on my face, or something that just isn't ok at all!
What's your best tip for clearing out your makeup?
