How long can you use old makeup?

Author: Dr. Deven Koch PhD  |  Last update: Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Water-based foundation typically is good for a year, while oil-based foundation is good for about 18 months. Consider replacing cream-based foundation or blushes every six months to a year. Powder products, if stored properly and free from moisture, are good for up to two years.

Is it safe to use 10 year old makeup?

Yes, you should throw away makeup when it expires. Cosmetics can become contaminated with bacteria over time, which can cause skin infections and eye infections. Check the expiration date on the packaging, or use the ``6M'' or ``12M'' symbols, which indicate the number of months the product is good for after opening.

Can I use makeup from 5 years ago?

Liquid concealer or foundation should be thrown out after a year. Pencil cosmetics, such as certain eyeliners or lip or brow pencils, should also be disposed of after a year. Lipsticks and lip glosses should be thrown away after one to two years of use.

Is it okay to use expired makeup?

Yes, you should throw away makeup when it expires. Cosmetics can become contaminated with bacteria over time, which can cause skin infections and eye infections. Check the expiration date on the packaging, or use the ``6M'' or ``12M'' symbols, which indicate the number of months the product is good for after opening.

Can I use a 10 year old eyeshadow palette?

The time from opening to when eyeshadows expire is 12 months but if left unopened, you have a full three years to hang onto them. This is because eyeshadow palettes are generally made with powder formulas. Therefore, they don't harbor as much bacteria as other, liquid makeup products.

THROWING AWAY MY MAKEUP COLLECTION 2024... let's get rid of everything

Should I throw away old makeup?

In general, to maintain a clear and attractive complexion you should discard old makeup. It can harbor germs, degrade, and become rancid. Only the most powerful preservatives might inhibit microbes.

Can you use 20 year old lipstick?

Powder products, if stored properly and free from moisture, are good for up to two years. Lipstick is good for one to two years, and lip gloss can be used for six months to 1 year.

Can I use 4 year old foundation?

Since nearly all foundations except powders have some water, it's best to replace them after 12 to 18 months. Also, as your base ages, the pigments can separate, resulting in uneven coverage.

What is the lifespan of makeup?

Unopened color cosmetics have a life span of about one-and-a-half to two years because the pigments can't stay suspended beyond that time. ("Natural" formulas could be shorter since they contain fewer preservatives.)

Can I use 3 year old makeup?

Koestline says that for both cream and liquid formulations, you have to look at if the product contains water or not. If anhydrous (does not contain water), then it's good for about three years if used with a lip brush to avoid contamination. If the formula does contain water, it's good for up to a year.

What makeup never expires?

“Powders don't usually contain any water to support microbial growth or oils that could go rancid,” says cosmetic chemist Alex Padgett. “The majority of powder products are just powder and so they won't really expire.” In fact, Padgett says she still uses a palette from 2014.

What to do with makeup I don't use?

One option is to pour all of your leftovers into one container and dispose directly into the trash (clean out and recycle the containers of those you can). The second option is to contact your household hazardous waste facility to determine what products they accept, some will take your cosmetics/beauty products.

How to tell if makeup is expired?

Almost all products will have a chemical-like smell or a strong unpleasant odor with expired makeup. The texture and consistency of the product may also change depending on the formula; watch out for clumpiness, drying out or separation when applying. Each beauty product may have different signs of expiration.

Does mascara expire if unopened?

The rule of thumb for mascara is that it needs to be replaced every two to three months, starting from when you open the mascara. If you're storing unopened mascara, it will remain stable for a couple of years, so no need to worry about your makeup stockpile.

Does concealer expire?

The longevity of concealer also depends on the consistency. Liquid concealers should be tossed after one year, but powder concealers are typically safe to use for up to two years. To figure out which texture will work best for your skin's type and needs, check out our concealer guide.

When to replace makeup?

The bottom line. You should replace your makeup every 3 months to 2 years, depending on the product. But these are just guidelines, so pay attention to any changes in your makeup's color, texture, or smell.

What happens when you use expired makeup?

You may experience breakouts, bacterial infection, fungal infection, or rashes. Expired lipsticks can bring mouth related ailments like cold sores. Never apply expired makeup onto broken skin. A cosmetic expiration date should be clearly displayed somewhere on the packaging, product label or product casing.

Can I use makeup after 3 years?

Makeup can last anywhere between a few months to three years, so it's important to know which products last long and which don't.

Does shampoo expire?

Shampoo and conditioner can both expire, and when they do, you should avoid using them. Expired shampoo and conditioner can be harmful to your health, and they also may no longer be effective. Once open, most shampoo and conditioner lasts between six months and a year, but unopened bottles can last longer.

Can I use 6 year old makeup?

Proceed at your own risk as doing so can increase your chances of developing skin sensitivities, breakouts, irritation, or even infections. Most experts agree that no cosmetic product should be used after three years from opening.

What to do with old makeup?

In the US, TerraCycle is also working with Ulta in their waste-free packaging program Loop. If you still have a lot of product left in the container, you could also consider donating it to a friend. Some women's shelters will also gladly take your unwanted makeup. Plus, you'll be doing someone a solid.

Can I use expired lipstick?

It's important to check the expiration date on lipstick products, as they can expire after a few months. Expired lipstick may not perform as intended and could potentially harbor bacteria, leading to skin irritation or infection.

Does ChapStick expire?

You've got questions, we've got answers! Does ChapStick'® expire? We recommend using ChapStick'® within one year after opening, but products without an expiration date don't expire'check the packaging for details.

What color lipstick ages you?

The makeup fan said: "If we want to look younger, we want to stay away from really harsh colours." She advised that claret, raisin and bright red may be a no-go if you're looking to take a few years off your look.

How do you sanitize old makeup?

However, simply spray 70% isopropyl alcohol over every single one of your powder products (e.g. eyeshadow palettes, face powders, blushers, bronzers, etc) and ensure you thoroughly saturate. Finally, leave to evaporate and dry! We promise, they'll be OK! But this will get rid of any nasties!

Previous article
Is bandana top Y2K?
Next article
How long does hair grow in 3 months?