Does Makeup Expire?

Does Makeup Expire?

It's Not Just About Pigment—It's About the Invisible Bacteria

The short answer is a definitive yes, makeup absolutely expires. But unlike that carton of milk that turns obviously sour, makeup spoilage is often invisible, silent, and incredibly sneaky. When you look at your favorite foundation or mascara, you’re not just looking at a pretty package; you’re looking at a time capsule for bacteria. Over time, preservatives break down, ingredients separate, and, most importantly, repeated contact with your skin and the air introduces microorganisms that can lead to irritation, infections, and breakouts. Knowing the signs and sticking to a general timeline is crucial for skin health.

🔑 The PAO Symbol: Your Expiration Date Secret

If you look closely at the packaging of most beauty products, you'll find a tiny, open-jar symbol with a number followed by an 'M' (e.g., 6M, 12M, 24M). This is the Period After Opening (PAO) symbol. It tells you exactly how many months the product is safe to use once you break the seal and introduce air.

The General Shelf Life Timeline (Once Opened)

While the PAO is the most reliable guide, here is a breakdown of when you should toss the most common types of makeup and tools. Remember that products with more water and those that touch your eyes have the shortest lifespan, as they carry the biggest risk for bacterial growth.

  • Mascara & Liquid Eyeliner: Toss these between 3 to 6 Months. They are highly prone to dangerous bacteria (like staph or pink eye) because of contact with the delicate eye area. Never pump the wand!

  • Liquid & Cream Foundation/Concealer: You should replace these around 6 to 12 Months. Their high water content makes them prone to ingredient separation and microbial growth.

  • Lipstick & Lip Gloss: These last a bit longer, typically 12 to 18 Months. While less risky than eye products, constant contact with the mouth introduces saliva bacteria.

  • Powder Products (Eyeshadow, Blush, Powder Foundation): These last the longest, usually 18 to 24 Months. They contain very little water, but you should toss them immediately if they develop a hard, waxy "film."

  • Makeup Sponges & Brushes: You must clean these weekly. While brushes last a long time, sponges must be replaced every 3 months because they hold water and are massive bacteria traps.

🚨 The Clear Signs It's Time to Toss

Even if you haven't hit the PAO date, look for these obvious warnings that your makeup has spoiled:

  • Smell: If your product smells remotely "off," rancid, or chemically different from when you bought it, toss it immediately. That usually indicates the oils have broken down.

  • Separation: If your liquid product (like a tinted moisturizer or liquid foundation) permanently separates, and no amount of shaking will recombine the pigments and oils, the emulsion has failed.

  • Texture Change: If a liquid product thickens, becomes glue-like, or a powder forms a hard crust that resists your brush, it's done.

  • Eye Irritation: Any redness, itching, or swelling after using an eye product is a non-negotiable sign to throw it out—it's not worth the risk of infection.

Always use your common sense and the PAO guide. When in doubt, toss it out!

Back to blog