STYLE

It's important to know when it's time to toss your old makeup and restock. Keeping expired products around could be the reason why you're breaking out or experiencing skin or eye irritation.

Here are some of the *biggest* red flags to look out for in your makeup products along with the approximate shelf life of different products. 

Smell test

One of the biggest signs that your makeup has expired is if it's starting to carry a bad stench. Just think about how food starts to smell after a while—it's the same thing with makeup. 

Color change

If the pigment in your eyeshadow, blush or bronzer isn't as vibrant as it used to be, it is definitely a sign that the product has expired. 

Different texture

The last major sign that your makeup has expired is if it doesn't feel the same as it normally does. Products tend to dry out and get crumbly if they have expired, and liquid ones tend to separate in the bottle. You *def* don't want to be putting products on your face that have a funky texture, because it could potentially cause a bad skin reaction.

The makeup time table

Lipstick: Expires after 24 months 

Image: Instagram.com/daliacosmetics

Foundation and concealer: Expire after 18 months

Image: Instagram.com/morphebrushes

Lip gloss: Expires after 18 months

Image: Instagram.com/glossier

Mascara: Expires after 6 months

Image: Instagram.com/essencecosmetics

Powder products: Expire after 18 months 

Image: Instagram.com/lauramercier

Cream products: Expire after 18 months 

Image: Instagram.com/fentybeauty

For more beauty tips, follow us on our TikTok, IG and Twitter @girlslifemag!

Source: healthline.com, marieclaire.com. Top image: Instagram.com/ladyxtale

by Hayley Miller | 3/25/2021