When should you throw away your makeup?

If you're like most women you have a drawer full of makeup that may be past its safe-to-use date. Outdated makeup and unwashed makeup applicators can cause minor skin irritations, contribute to blemish break-outs, and more seriously, cause infections.

According to a March 9, 2000 makeup report (revised October 15, 2002) the FDA advised, "Consumers should be aware that makeup expiration dates are simply 'rules of thumb', and that a product's safety may expire long before the expiration date if the product has not been properly stored. Cosmetics that have been improperly stored -- for example, exposed to high temperatures or sunlight, or opened and examined by consumers prior to final sale -- may deteriorate substantially before the expiration date. On the other hand, products stored under ideal conditions may be acceptable long after the expiration date has been reached."

There are no FDA regulations for expiration dates for skincare or cosmetics products in the United States. The European Union has a system known as the PAO, or Period After Opening date. A number followed by M on the product label indicates how many months it should remain safe. For instance, a number 12 followed by an M on the product label indicates that any remaining product should be discarded after 12 months. However, PAO dates are supplied by cosmetics manufacturers, and they are created without guidelines or methodical, substantiated testing.

Without mandated expiration dates for cosmetics and skincare products, the burden lies with the consumer to determine when a product is no longer safe. Some indicators are easy to spot. If the consistency of the product has changed, such as becoming more runny or more clotted, it's a safe bet to discard it. Also, if the product has developed an odor, or looks or feels different, it should be tossed.

Unopened products can last past their supposed expiration date because they haven't been exposed to air, light, or bacteria. Dry products, such as eyeshadows, blushes, and powders, have the longest shelf life because they are not conducive to growing bacteria. Liquids, such as foundations, mascaras, and skincare regimens, have a considerably shorter safe-to-use period.

Here are some guidelines for cleaning out that makeup drawer:

• Mascara, Liquid Eyeliner, and Self-Sharpening Eyeliner - 3 months. These wet formulas are in a dark environment, which is an invitation for bacteria. In addition, the mascara usually becomes dry and chalky at around 3 months. You'll experience flaking and uneven coating. Never pump the wand in the container; this forces air in and quickly dries the mascara out. (I think this is an outdated practice, but I remember my sister and me doing it when we were teenagers!! A lot!!) Instead, twist the brush around the inside of the container to gather product from the container walls and move it in a circular motion at the bottleneck to remove excess solution. Liquid eyeliners should be handled in the same manner. Self-sharpening eyeliner can be cleaned with an alcohol swab after each use to prolong its life.

• Pencil Eyeliner & Lipliner - 2 years. A true pencil eyeliner or lipliner is renewed each time it is sharpened.

• Concealer - 3 months to 12 months. Liquid concealers with a wand applicator should be tossed on the same schedule as mascara. Concealer sticks, twist-ups, and containers can last up to 12 months if an applicator is used to apply. Using fingers increases the odds of bacterial growth. At the very least, if you use your fingers to apply sticks, twist-ups, and containers, swipe the product with an alcohol swab after each use.

• Foundation & Face Powder - 6 months to 2 years. Liquid foundations are susceptible to bacterial growth, especially if they are in a jar instead of a tube. Dipping into a jar or placing fingers over the top of a bottle container can possibly introduce bacteria from your fingers or hands. A tube helps eliminate the exposure to bacteria from your hands. Powder foundations can last up to 2 years, although they can become hard and chalky on the top layer from exposure to pouf or sponge applicators, which transfer oils from your skin. If this happens, the top cakey layer can be scraped off to expose the fresher consistency underneath. Face powders, whether pressed or loose, can last up to 2 years. Follow the same guidelines for powder foundations.

• Eyeshadow - 6 months to 2 years. Creme shadows, with their moist consistency, can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Double dipping a brush or applicator can introduce and push bacteria into the product. The risk can be reduced by swiping the top layer off of the container with an alcohol swab. Prepare to toss after 6 months if not disinfected with an alcohol swab. Powder shadows can last up to 2 years but face the same limited shelf life as powder foundations. Scraping the top layer or transferring to a more airtight container can prolong their life.

• Lipstick & Gloss - up to 2 years. Lip gloss' liquid formulation, like any other liquids, can be conducive to bacteria growth. Gloss and lipstick tend to dry out with age, where they no longer look creamy. Long-wearing lipsticks may not last as long as others; their ingredients may change consistency more quickly than regular formulas.

• Moisturizers, Cleansers, Tonics, & Serums - 6 months to 1 year. These products should be regarded the same as other cosmetics. Liquids are more prone to bacteria if not used, applied, or stored properly.

• Items labeled as 'All-Natural' - These products do not contain preservatives and should be used or tossed within 6 months.

A few other tips:

• Clean makeup applicators, sponges, and brushes in a soapy wash at least once every couple of months.
• Wash your hands before and after using products.
• Products packaged in jars invite bacteria growth. Be sure to use clean hands or a clean applicator to get product.
• Never re-use eye products after or during an eye infection like pink-eye. Toss them to prevent re-infection.
• Tighten caps and lids after each use.
• Store products away from heat and sunlight, in a drawer or cabinet.
• Don't share products with others. Make sure makeup application consultants use clean applicators for each product / use.

Note: You can use a Sharpie to write the opened date on your cosmetics and skincare products. You can use a label or write directly on the product. Or you can use http://www.beautyalert.biz/ that offers labels to place on your products.
 
Note: The BeautiControl products that I use in Stress Management Workshops and Spa Experiences are tested and formulated to ensure a minimum of 3 years life if unopened. After a product is opened the shelf life varies due to storage, use, and application.


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Contact me for a session that will teach you skills to reduce the stressful impact of the daily demands on your life. I specialize in Stress Management and Coaching -- I'd love to meet and talk with you!

Best joy & laughter to you,
Rachel

~ Live your life like you stole it! ~