Is it OK to use 2 year old mascara?

Author: Mrs. Edyth Schimmel  |  Last update: Saturday, September 6, 2025

Mascara and liquid eyeliner typically are considered safe to use for three months. Liquid products used near the eye have an increased risk of spreading bacteria. Pencil-style eyeliners, gel eyeliners and lip pencils can be used for up to a year.

Can I use mascara after 2 years?

You should replace eye makeup products such as eyeliner and mascara within six months to 1 year of duration. Whereas you can use foundation, blush, powder, and lipsticks up to 1-2 years after it's opened. The best way to test if your makeup has expired is to notice a weird smell or change in texture.

Can I use 3 year old mascara?

It's not safe to use expired mascara on your eyelashes because it can cause irritation and even serious infections. Mascara has a high potential for bacteria growth, so using an expired product can lead to eye infections that may require treatment with antibiotics.

What could happen if I use expired mascara?

Skin infections: Over time, makeup can become a breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms, potentially leading to infections. Eye infections: Bacteria from expired makeup or unclean eye makeup brushes can get in the eyes, causing infections.

How long is unused mascara good for?

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.

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When should you throw away old mascara?

When to throw away mascara. You're not going to want to hear this, either, but mascara is a hotbed for bacteria and should be replaced every three to six months.

How to know if mascara is off?

1 Also, switch out your mascara as soon as it starts smelling funky (think: burning plastic) and depositing more clumps than color, Jeannette Graf, MD, a dermatologist in Great Neck, New York, told Health. Take no chances with eye products—germ-ridden formulas can cause infections.

Can I use 3 year old lipstick?

All lipsticks have a shelf life of 2 years. If yours is more than 2 years old, then it's time to throw it into the bin. You see, using an expired lipstick can cause irritation and inflammation on the lips.

Can old mascara affect your eyes?

Do you know how old your mascara is? Most of us don't think about makeup expiration dates. Old makeup can be a breeding ground for bacteria. This bacteria can be potentially harmful to your eyes.

How to tell if mascara is bad?

How to Tell If Your Mascara Is Expired
  1. “You can tell a mascara has expired by smelling it,” says Velasquez. ...
  2. He explains that it's also important to pay attention to the color and texture of your mascara. ...
  3. The eyes are extremely sensitive, so using an expired formula may lead to irritation.

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.

Does old mascara get clumpy?

Mascara is good for about three months, and it's super important to toss it and get a new one once it's expired. Not only does old mascara end up clumping, flaking, and otherwise apply poorly, but it's considered unhygienic.

Can I use 4 year old mascara?

Mascara and liquid eyeliner typically are considered safe to use for three months. Liquid products used near the eye have an increased risk of spreading bacteria. Pencil-style eyeliners, gel eyeliners and lip pencils can be used for up to a year.

What is the standard lifespan for mascara?

Mascaras tend to dry out quicker, and thus can only be used for 3 to 6 months. A good way to make it last longer is to not pump stick. It will decrease the amount of air in. Shake the bottle a bit before using and use the product left on the top.

What will happen if I use expired mascara?

Yes, expired makeup products can pose various risks to your eye health. Bacteria, fungi, and other harmful pathogens can thrive in expired products, potentially leading to eye infections and irritations.

Can you use 10 year old makeup?

So, is it ever okay to continue using products after their expiration date? 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.

Is it bad to leave mascara on your eyes overnight?

Yes, sleeping in eye makeup can be particularly harmful. It can irritate your eyes, potentially leading to infections or styes. Mascara and eyeliner can clog the tiny hair follicles and oil glands on your eyelids.

Does mascara expire if unopened?

Most unopened mascaras have a shelf life of 3 years after manufacture. In order to not have a printed expiration date on products in the EU, cosmetics must have a shelf life of 31 months. However, by the time they show up on the shelves, there is usually less time left due to shipment timings, etc.

Can I use 2 year old lipgloss?

Lipstick: eight months to one year. Lip gloss: 12 to 18 months. Powder products: 12 to 18 months. Cream products: six months to one year.

How long should you keep mascara?

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. An old tube of mascara could be an eye infection waiting to happen, so consider swapping your old tube for a new one each season to stay on the safe side.

When to throw away mascara?

Once your mascara starts to smell off, changes in consistency, or becomes clumpy or dry, it's definitely time to replace it. The good news? There are plenty of budget-friendly mascaras that work just as well, so you won't feel as guilty about throwing them away. Also, pay attention to the expiration date!

How long does bacteria live in mascara?

But since they can be infected with bacteria after only 1 use, it is a good idea to keep track of how long you have been using products like mascara and eyeliners. Although there are no guidelines for cosmetics use, risk of infection can be reduced if you change them every 3 to 4 months, experts suggest.

Why shouldn't you wear mascara everyday?

The primary risk is that certain components may migrate into the eye, potentially causing irritation for some individuals. Due to repetitive applications, these mascaras disrupt the production of tear films or lacrimal film, which covers the surface of the eye and protects it against external assaults.

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