Beauty products still be used after expiration date?

Because a lot of people ask: Can I use beauty products past their expiration date? Just last week, I went for a cardio session and threw some makeup into my bag, among which was a MAC face and body foundation that had been sitting in a drawer for years. It looked like it had caked on and was obviously no longer fit for use, so I didn’t try to put it on my face for fear of what bad effects it might have.

While I know the rules of use, I’m a little rambunctious about storing makeup a little longer than it should be, but I’ve been sticking to the open lifespan of other products. Of course I will use it within a year. However, my research has made it abundantly clear that you can’t pick and choose which products you decide to be careful with; you have to be. They all pose a significant risk if left open for too long.

In fact, you’ve probably seen horror stories on some social media outlets: skincare products causing burns, dry mascara flaking into your eyeballs. As it turns out, if you’ve been using lippy since 2012 something is indeed a little off, and worse, irreparable damage could be done. However, many companies are straying away from true transparency and avoiding clearly labeling expiration dates on their products. Even if it has an expiration date on it, do you really pay attention to what’s on it? Yes, you must dispose of the product within the timeframe stated on the packaging.

My makeup artist friend told me that the truth is, once opened, liquid products actually only have a shelf life of one to two years. Mascara, even less. For hygiene purposes, I replace my mascara every two to three months. You may be able to use the powder for three years, but you should check the individual product’s symbol, which looks like an open jar with a few months on it, to be sure of the date.

The same rule applies to skincare products. They do affect efficacy and safety, and essentially, these dates are important for stability; every product on the market has been tested to ensure that it will remain stable for a certain period of time, so they are important.

Ignoring expiration dates will pose a risk; the results can range from blemishes to more serious infections. So, don’t be reluctant to throw away your past beauty products, for your health!