Is it bad to use out-of-date makeup?
We obey food expiry dates all the time – for our own health, of course – but when it comes to make-up and beauty products, people seem to be a bit more relaxed. However, using out-of-date products may be more dangerous than we thought.
To find out how to best manage makeup use-by dates, we spoke to beauty expert and founder of natural beauty line Embalm Skincare, Mel Driver.
According to Mel, it is “absolutely not” safe to use expired make-up. “Expired beauty products can carry a range of germs, bacteria and daily dirt and grime,” she explains to Over60. “Using a product beyond its expiration date can cause blemishes, rashes, irritation and skin or eye infections.”
In addition to wreaking havoc on your skin, out-of-date makeup is also much less effective, Mel says. “Preservatives in beauty products only last so long after opening so as well as harbouring bacteria there is a chance the product has gone ‘off’ and it won’t work as well or have the same finish as when it was brand new. Expired products can have a tendency to dry out and this will further dry out the skin upon application, increasing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.”
Of course, beauty products aren’t exactly cheap, so it’s only natural to want to get the most out of them as possible. Fortunately, Mel has some tips to help extend the life of your make-up, plus some advice on how often you should clean out your collection.
1. Seal them properly – “Make sure the lids are on correctly and the product is sealed so it doesn’t dry out or get contaminants inside.”
2. Store them safely – “Keep products out of direct sunlight as UV rays are capable of destroying preservatives, which will make your cosmetic products spoil quicker. Make sure products don’t get too hot or wet as moisture and heat will accelerate deterioration – store them in a cool, dry place.”
3. Keep clean – “Only dip into product jars with clean hands. Unless the product is packaged in an airtight pump, bacteria on your fingers and moisture from the shower can contaminate the product.
4. Clean out regularly – “Some things should be replaced every three months such as mascara. Foundations are good for six to 12 months. Eyeshadow and powder blush can last a little longer. If they become flaky, crumbly or smell funny it’s time to throw them away. In order to keep your makeup sponges, brushes and other tools as new, it’s recommended to wash them once a week. Brushes and sponges may need a few hours to dry naturally, so clean them when you know you won’t use them for a while.”
Are you guilty of using out-of-date makeup? Do you think you’ll stop after reading this? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.