The ultimate guide to when to toss your skincare and makeup products

If you're one of those who promptly discard the packaging of beauty or makeup products, welcome to the club. However, due to this habit, we often forget to check the expiration dates on the products we use ourselves. Let's be honest – it can be challenging to part with makeup and skincare items if we haven't inspected every inch of them. Nevertheless, all of our beauty products have an expiration date.

Understanding PAO

Before delving into the general shelf life of skincare, it's essential to grasp the concept of PAO, which stands for Period After Opening.

The PAO symbol on a cosmetic label denotes how long the product remains usable after opening, usually represented by the letter 'M' for months. For instance, '11M' implies 11 months and is commonly found at the bottom of your product.

For skincare

The shelf life and expiration dates of skincare products can vary depending on the specific product and its ingredients. You can check the PAO, but at times, it is not mentioned on the product's bottle. Here's a quick guide to when you should discard specific makeup or skincare products:

1. Cleansers: Generally, facial cleansers can last up to 12-24 months. To spot if a cleanser has expired, look for changes in colour, separation, or an unusual odour.

2. Moisturizers: Moisturizers can typically be used for 12-24 months. 

3. Serums: Serums with active ingredients like vitamin C may have a shorter shelf life, around 6-12 months. Signs of expiration include changes in colour, texture, or an off-putting odour. For instance, if your Vitamin C skincare is turning brown from clear, it's time to throw it away, as it means that it has oxidised.  Retinol products can be sensitive to air and light, so they may have a shorter shelf life, usually around 6-12 months. Products containing active acne-fighting ingredients, like benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid, generally last around 6-12 months.

   

4. Sunscreen: Sunscreen products are regulated and should have an expiration date printed on the packaging. They usually last about 2-3 years, but it's essential to replace them if they reach their expiration date as the level of protection decreases after the expiry date.

5. Exfoliants: Chemical exfoliants and peels often have a shelf life of 6-12 months. Physical exfoliants (scrubs) can last a bit longer, up to 12-18 months.

6. Masks: Depending on the type of mask (clay, sheet, hydrating, etc.), they can last anywhere from 6-24 months.

7. Eye Creams: Eye creams typically have a shelf life of 6-12 months

      8. Oils: Many facial and body oils can last up to 12-24 months. 

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For makeup 

Now, for makeup, the ball game is a little different. Here's a quick guide.

1. Foundation: Liquid foundations generally last about 6-12 months, while powder foundations can last up to 2 years. Now if we at the type on which they are based then, Water-based foundations last up to 1 year, Oil-based 18 months whereas cream-based: 6 months to 1 year.

2.  Concealer: Concealers, whether in liquid or stick form, usually have a shelf life of 6-12 months.

3. Powder (Face and Eyeshadow): Powder makeup products, such as pressed powders, blushes, and eyeshadows, can last you up to 2 years sometimes a little longer.

4. Lipstick and Lip Gloss: Your Lipsticks and lip gloss can typically be used for 1-2 years.

5. Mascara: Due to its proximity to the eyes, mascara has a shorter shelf life and should be replaced every 3-6 months. Do not use mascara beyond its expiration date.

6. Eyeliner: Pencil eyeliners can last up to 2 years, while liquid eyeliners may need to be replaced after 6-12 months.

7. Lip Liner: Lip liners usually have a shelf life of 1-2 years.   

   

8. Eyebrow Products: Eyebrow pencils and powders can last up to 2 years or longer.

9. Cream and Liquid Eyeshadows: These products typically last about 6-12 months.

10. Makeup Brushes and Sponges: With regular cleaning and proper care, makeup brushes and sponges can last several years. However, they should be replaced if they become frayed or start shedding bristles. And btw, it is really important to clean your brushes. 

11. Nail Polish: Nail polish can last up to 2 years if stored correctly, but it may become thick or clumpy over time, which means it is time to throw them away.

12. Setting Spray: Setting sprays can last 1-2 years, but check the brand label for the exact timeframe. 

Why is it important? 

Now, if you're wondering why you need to replace your makeup and skincare products every 1-2 years, let us tell you that expired products may not provide the desired results and could potentially cause skin issues. Regularly checking and adhering to the recommended timelines for product replacement ensures optimal performance and avoids adverse skin reactions.

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