How often should I replace my mascara?

Author: Leilani Ruecker  |  Last update: Saturday, October 11, 2025

On average, mascara should be replaced every three months. If you notice any changes like clumping, flaking, or a smell, it's time to replace it even sooner. Using old mascara can not only lead to eye infections but also affect the performance of the product.

How often do I replace my mascara?

Understanding mascara's shelf life

Well, unlike many other popular cosmetics, mascara doesn't have a particularly long shelf life. In fact, professionals recommend changing your mascara as often as every three months – so, much more regularly than other makeup such as eyeliner or eyebrow pencils, for example.

How long should a mascara last?

How Long Does Mascara Last? You may not want to part with your favorite tube of mascara, but we hate to inform you that it has the earliest expiration date when it comes to makeup. Mascara lasts around three to six months, and shouldn't be kept around for longer. Think about it: You're putting it right near your eyes.

Can I use mascara for 2 years?

Absolutely not. Mascara is the cosmetic product that can grow bacteria the fastest, and so it is never a good idea to share it. Also, you should not use a mascara tube for more than 3 months for the same reason.

Why replace mascara every 3 months?

Did you know that mascara should be replaced every 3-6 months? 😲 Here's why: mascara is a breeding ground for bacteria. Every time you use it, you're introducing new germs to the tube. Over time, this can lead to eye infections, irritation, and even styes.

How often should you replace your mascara?

Is it OK if I wear mascara everyday?

Unfortunately, those who overuse it run the risk of ending up with falling or thinning eyelashes. It is advisable to reduce the duration of mascara wear, and to prioritize gentle eye makeup removal.

When to throw out mascara?

Astudy done almost 40 years ago in a very reputable ophthalmology journal showed that bacterial and fungal growth was found in 36% of mascara tubes after 3 months. So, now ophthalmologists make the recommendation to discard your mascara after 3 months.

What is the best mascara?

Lengthening
  • HourglassUnlocked Instant Extensions Lengthening Mascara. ...
  • HUDA BEAUTYLEGIT LASHES Double-Ended Volumizing and Lengthening Mascara. ...
  • Benefit CosmeticsRoller Lash Curling & Lifting Mascara. ...
  • PAT McGRATH LABSFetishEyes™ Lengthening Mascara. ...
  • ILIALimitless Lash Lengthening Clean Mascara.

Do I need to throw out my makeup if I have pink eye?

Throw away and replace any eye or face makeup you used while infected. Replace contact lens solutions that you used while your eyes were infected. Throw away disposable contact lenses and cases that were used while your eyes were infected. Clean extended wear lenses as directed.

Is it OK to leave mascara on for 3 days?

Leaving mascara on your lashes for long periods of time can cause them to become brittle and break, leaving you with thinning lashes.

What's the best drugstore mascara?

Our top picks for the best drugstore mascaras:
  • Best Drugstore Mascara Overall. L'Oréal Paris Voluminous Panorama Mascara. Read more.
  • Best Budget Drugstore Mascara. Essence Lash Princess Mascara. Read more.
  • Best Drugstore Tubing Mascara. L'Oreal Paris Double Extend Beauty Tubes Lengthening 2 Step Mascara. Read more.

Should I throw away old eyeshadow?

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.

How often should I replace my concealer?

How Long Should You Keep Makeup Before Throwing It Away?
  1. Concealer: 1 Year.
  2. Cream blush: 1 year.
  3. Powder Blush: 2 Years.
  4. Face Powder: 2 Years.
  5. Liquid Eyeliner: 6 Months.
  6. Eyeliner pencil, 1 year.
  7. Eyebrow Gel, 1 Year.
  8. Powder Eyeshadow, 2 Years.

What is the best rated waterproof mascara?

Best Waterproof Mascara
  • calirayCome Hell or High Water Volumizing & Lengthening Tubing Mascara2 Colors. ...
  • Yves Saint LaurentLash Clash Extreme Volume Waterproof Mascara. ...
  • calirayMini Come Hell or High Water Volumizing & Lengthening Tubing Mascara. ...
  • SEPHORA COLLECTIONWaterproof Size Up Mascara.

How often should clients replace their mascara?

Explanation: Typically, it is recommended to replace mascara every three to four months. This is due to the fact that bacteria can grow in the mascara tube, which can lead to eye infections.

Should you wash off mascara at night?

Leaving your eye makeup on overnight can lead to eye infection and irritation. Just as bad, a stye can form from mascara clogging glands connected to your eyelashes. Your eyelids are extremely thin and sensitive, so make sure to treat them with care. The bottom line is removing your makeup is very important.

What happens if you use old mascara?

Old Makeup Can Cause Serious Eye Infections. That mascara wand can do more than just make your lashes longer. It can also give you an eye infection. Every year, many women end up with eye infections from cosmetics.

What is commonly misdiagnosed as pink eye?

There are eye conditions with similar symptoms to pink eye. It's common to mistake allergies, styes, iritis, keratitis, and blepharitis for it. They can have different causes and require different treatments. Protect your eye health by setting up an exam with our team.

How to sanitize eye 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!

What mascara does Kim Kardashian use?

✨Kim is wearing the @lancomeofficial Hypnôse Mascara - I used the @lancomeofficial Hypnôse Drama Mascara. I've been using it for years and I always get compliments on it!! 🤍 #mascara #falsies #longeyelashes #lancome #kimkardashian #makeupbyariel #promua #celebritymakeupartist.

Are expensive mascaras better?

“Lash thickness, waterproof or regular formulas, and the desire for a dramatic or natural look all come into play.” At the end of the day, regardless of whether your mascara hails from the realm of luxury or the aisles of a pharmacy, if it fits the kind of finish you're looking for, it's a winner.

What mascara do eye doctors recommend?

Neutrogena Healthy Lengths Mascara

Highly-rated, Neutrogena's lengthening mascara formula is ophthalmologist-tested, as well as safe for sensitive eyes and contact lens wearers. Though the GH Beauty Lab hasn't tested this formula, the brand has a trusted reputation for those with sensitivities.

Should you keep mascara in the fridge?

Eyeliner and mascara – The same is true for your eye make-up. Although some advise storing your eyeliner and mascara in the fridge to preserve the shelf life, you generally shouldn't, as bacteria in make-up can cause eye infections or irritations.

Can you save old mascara?

To quickly revive your mascara, add a couple of drops of contact lens or saline solution to the mascara tube. (Two to three drops should be more than enough.) Then, twist on the lid and shake the tube to disperse the liquid.

How often should you get new mascara?

“Mascara needs to be swapped every three months,” says Flanagan. “This is a big one as mascara is a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to eye infections. “If it starts to dry out or smell different, it's time to replace it.

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