Why do cosmetics have an expiration date

Products that come in a pump may last up to a year. Be especially careful with SPF and sunscreen expiration dates. If you use your products regularly, you should have no problem finishing them before their expiration.

If you only plan to use your skin care occasionally, mini travel bottles can be a great option. You should throw away your makeup once it hits its expiration point. Pay careful attention to certain natural makeup and skin care , which may be formulated without preservatives and may have a shorter period before expiration. If you have an eye infection , like pink eye , or any other skin infection , toss your makeup immediately as it likely carries the same bacteria that caused the infection.

However, you should heed all makeup expiration dates in order to avoid infection and skin irritation. Expired products also will not perform optimally. To find the expiration, look for the PAO symbol stamped on the product or its packaging, which will indicate how many months you have until it expires.

Natural makeup is typically free of certain chemicals and synthetic ingredients. Get 10 product recommendations and learn what to look for. Toothpaste does expire, but the reason why may surprise you. We explain why it expires plus what to do with your tubes that are past their prime. If you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn commission.

Save FB Tweet More. Makeup expiration dates guide - chart and dates for makeup and toiletry expiration. Credit: Getty Images. Makeup expiration dates chart - chart and dates for makeup expiration mascara, eye liner, foundation, and more and more. Credit: realsimple. Concealer: one year Cream blush: one year Eyeliner: three months Eyeliner pencil: two years Eyeshadow: one year Foundation: one year Lip balm: one to five years Lip gloss: one year Lipstick: two years Liquid eyeliner: three months Mascara: three months Nail polish: one year Powder blush: two years.

Depending on the type and nature of the product, an expiration date can very. This can be relative to a number of factors:. In cases where the shelf life exceeds 30 months an expiration date is not required to be placed on the packing, however a period after opening PAO is. Period after opening PAO refers to the amount of time a product will remain stable and safe for human use after it has first been opened. Keep the product out of direct sunlight, avoid touching the application with your fingers, and when you notice separation, it's time to toss.

Shelf Life: Two years. Always, always keep your brushes clean! Shelf Life: 12 to 18 months. Shelf Life: One year. Make your favorite red last longer by keeping it in a cool, dry place not in your hot car. Keep your liners away from your steamy bathroom to extend their life. Shelf Life: Three months. Maintenance Tips: Replacing your mascara regularly is crucial for avoiding eye infections.

Shelf Life: Three to four months. Shelf Life: Three to six months. Shelf Life: Two months. Maintenance Tips: Unfortunately, a pot of gel eyeliner should only be used for a few months since it easily traps bacteria.

Shelf Life: Three to five years. Maintenance Tips: Fragrance is the longest-lasting product in your beauty routine—by far!

Some brands, like Le Labo, even suggest storing them in the fridge. Shelf Life: One to two years. Maintenance Tips: Heat and direct sunlight will make your polish separate and become discolored faster, so store your lacquers upright in a cool, dry place.