The problem with our beloved makeup is, it doesn't stay good forever. Some items actually have a very short shelf life once they have been opened.
Opened, used makeup can be vulnerable to bacterial growth even though the product contains preservatives. Mascara is most notorious for having a short shelf life. I'm surprised how many people don't realize this.
I had a client come into the salon to have her makeup done. She brought her own mascara for me to use on her. I asked her how old her mascara was. She wasn't sure but said it was at least a couple years old.
In the trash it went!
There was no way I would use possibly contaminated mascara on her. It could possible cause an eye infection.
Cream Blush and Cream Eye Shadows: 6 months
Concealer: 12 months
Liquid Foundation: 12 months
Lipstick: 12-18 months
Lip and Eye Pencils: 3 years (sharpened regularly)
Powder Shadows and Face Powders: 2-3 years
Pat Dry
Pat the brushes dry with a towel and give them a shake to remove excess water.
Reshape
Reshape your brushes with your fingers and let them air dry.
In this post, I will list makeup types and their shelf life after they have been opened.
It is important to keep your makeup as clean as possible as you use it to keep it fresh and extend it shelf life a bit longer.
I have also included a guide to keeping your makeup brushes clean. Clean brushes = healthier makeup. Plus, I added some Amazon affiliate links to help you find my favorite products.
Opened Makeup Shelf Life
Mascara: 3 monthsCream Blush and Cream Eye Shadows: 6 months
Concealer: 12 months
Liquid Foundation: 12 months
Lipstick: 12-18 months
Lip and Eye Pencils: 3 years (sharpened regularly)
Powder Shadows and Face Powders: 2-3 years
Makeup brushes can be made of animal hair or synthetic materials. Animal hair brushes used to be the holy grail but synthetic materials have improved tremendously become the desired material for makeup brushes in this cruelty free age we live in. Synthetic makeup brushes are also very affordable.
This cleaning procedure is for all makeup brushes.
Your brushes should receive a cleaning about once a week.
Wipe clean lip, liquid eye liner, foundation and concealer brushes after each use.
How to Clean Makeup Brushes
Use Mild Soap
Use a makeup brush cleaner, gentle shampoo or a liquid soap to wash your brushes. It can be an anti bacterial soap but it is not necessary.
Use a makeup brush cleaner, gentle shampoo or a liquid soap to wash your brushes. It can be an anti bacterial soap but it is not necessary.
This effective makeup brush shampoo is a great price! $4.00
Use warm water for washing and rinse the soap residue well. It may take more than one shampooing to remove all the makeup residue.
Avoid soaking your brushes in water for a prolonged amount of time. Metal parts may be prove to rust.
Pat Dry
Pat the brushes dry with a towel and give them a shake to remove excess water.
Reshape
Reshape your brushes with your fingers and let them air dry.
More Tips to Keep your Makeup Fresh:
Make sure your hands are clean when applying makeup.
Always use clean brushes and sponge applicators when dipping into your cosmetics to help keep them clean.
If a lipstick or any other cream or liquid makeup doesn't smell right, toss it. Oils can develop a rancid smell in old makeup.
It is especially important to replace your mascara every 3 months.
Store your makeup in a closed container.
Take advantage of the new year and start your year with new, fresh clean makeup.
Have a Beautiful Day!
PS: Thanks for using my amazon & direct links💋
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. That keeps my blog running and supports the care of animals in need!😸
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. That keeps my blog running and supports the care of animals in need!😸