Is it OK to use expired MAC foundation?

Author: Jerad O'Reilly  |  Last update: Thursday, December 25, 2025

Risks are associated with using expired makeup including, clogged pores and bacterial growth. It's important to be mindful of how long your makeup has been in storage so you can avoid these potential health hazards. Your skin may react to product ingredients if they have reached their expiration date.

Can I use expired MAC foundation?

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.

How long is Mac foundation good for?

Foundation. With the exception of powder formulas, foundations are water-based, which means bacteria love them. Unopened, foundation can last for a couple of years, but once the seal is broken, Hammer says, it's best to replace it after six to 12 months.

Does Mac makeup expire?

Contrary to popular belief, makeup does expire. MAC cosmetics are no exception. I have included a list of (it's impossible to give precise numbers) general shelf life estimates for each general MAC item.

Is it okay to use 5 year old foundation?

Cream, powder, or liquid foundation has a long shelf life of about two years. For liquid formulas, Koestline says that if it starts to separate is when you need to toss it. Koestline says eyeshadow that contains any water should only be used for a year since you're using it close to the eye area.

Expired Makeup! What Happens When You Use It?

Does it matter if foundation is expired?

Make-up that's being used regularly can trap bacteria, dirt and oils over time, which can cause the product to change in consistency, irritate your skin or even grow mould. Replacing your products after their expiry date will help you avoid breakouts, rushes, bumps, burning sensations and eye infections.

When should you throw away foundation?

When to Throw Away Makeup Guidelines: Liquid Foundation: after 6 months to 1 year. Cream Makeup: after 6 months to 1 year. Lipstick: after 1 year.

Does expired makeup look bad?

Textural changes you'll see in expired makeup

Expired makeup looks different depending on the type of product. You'll know a liquid foundation has reached the end of its life if it has oxidized (meaning the color has changed).

Does M·A·C makeup still recycle?

Done with your M·A·C products? Return your clean, empty products in-store or online to recycle. What is not recycled is converted to energy. Be part of the solution for a more beautiful tomorrow – today!

What happens after makeup expires?

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.

What is the shelf life of MAC Liquid foundation?

Foundation: Liquid foundation and foundation with SPF in it usually only lasts a year. Powder foundation lasts 1 to 2 years. Lip Pencils: Up to 3 years. Eyeliner: Liquid eyeliners last 6 months to a year.

Should concealer be lighter than foundation?

MYTH: You should always use a concealer one shade lighter than your foundation. Truth: If your goal is to brighten dark circles, then yes, choose a lighter concealer. But for blemishes or scars, you need a yellow-based shade as close as possible to that of your foundation.

How long do Macs stay good for?

The average laptop lasts 3 to 8 years, according to our experts.

What does expired foundation look like?

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.

Can I use 10 year old eyeshadow?

When do eyeshadows expire? Luckily, you can hang on to your eyeshadows for a bit longer. 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.

Does expired foundation make you break out?

Sharing or using expired products: Sharing makeup brushes or using expired products can introduce bacteria to your skin, leading to breakouts. Using heavy or oily products: Thick foundations, concealers, and primers can clog pores and cause breakouts.

What can I do with old unused 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.

How many M·A·C empties to get free lipstick?

Until 31 March, customers can receive a free lipstick for every six make-up empties they bring back into a MAC store. The Estée Lauder-owned make-up brand said it is ending its complimentary lipstick model to evolve its Back to MAC programme to "have greater action and impact for change".

Can you return M·A·C makeup after using it?

Products purchased from MAC Online must be returned in new or gently used condition and within 30 days from the date the order is delivered.

Can I use 10 year old foundation?

The rule of thumb is that most liquid, cream, and stick foundations deteriorate in quality about one year from the date you open them. It's not necessarily dangerous to use foundation at this point, but the integrity of the original product is no longer there.

What happens if I use old foundation?

If bacteria get into an open container or onto a brush, they can multiply rapidly and cause breakouts or other infections. Mold is another common issue with old cosmetics because moisture builds up inside containers over time, leading to mold growth. This mold growth can trigger breakouts or other irritations.

How to know if foundation has gone bad?

If your liquid foundation has thickened, or your powder foundation is exceptionally crumbly, it's most likely expired. The color is off.

Can I keep mascara on?

You can keep it, because while waterproof formulas that are sweat- and humidity-proof are reliable, there are other ways to make your formula stay put. For one, Moore says you can use a clear brow gel after applying mascara to lock in the formula.

Does unopened foundation go bad?

In general, most makeup can last one to three years unopened (when stored in a cool, dry place, ideally) and then between a few months and a couple of years after opening.

Should I throw away 10 year 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.

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