Is it OK to use used lipstick?

Author: Marcia Balistreri  |  Last update: Sunday, September 14, 2025

Although many forms of makeup contain preservatives that work to slow bacteria growth, it is still possible to experience a bacterial infection from old make-up. If make- up is discoloured, strange smelling or older than one yea, you should discard it.

Is it safe to use second-hand lipstick?

As long as it doesn't smell funky and isn't dried out any (I lost a dark chocolate lipstick to drying out) it should be fine in theory.

Is it safe to use someone else's lipstick?

Sharing lipstick can lead to the spread of bacteria and viruses, including herpes and cold sores. Additionally, sharing lipstick can lead to cross-contamination of skin cells, which can lead to acne or other skin irritations. It is always best to use your own personal lipstick and avoid sharing it with others.

Is it safe to use old lipstick?

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 to do if someone used your lipstick?

Disinfect Lipstick
  1. Step 1: Scrape Off Top Layer. Because the top layer can have residue such as air particles and lint, its best to scrape off that first thin layer. ...
  2. Step 2: Option 1: Dip in Alcohol. ...
  3. Step 3: Option 2: Place in Freezer Overnight. ...
  4. Step 4: Allow to Air-Dry.

Expired Makeup! What Happens When You Use It?

How long do bacteria live on lipstick?

Viruses and bacteria can linger on sticky surfaces like lipsticks, balms and ointments for hours to days, so it's important to not gloss over the risks.

How do you clean lipstick after someone used it?

Lipsticks and lip glosses

Spray the exposed portion with alcohol, and make sure that you leave plenty of time for the alcohol to soak in and evaporate before using this lipstick again.

How do you know if lipstick has gone bad?

Cracks and Mold on Lipstick

Examine the surface of your lipstick for visible cracks or any signs of mold growth. These are clear indicators that the lipstick has gone bad and should be discarded immediately.

When should I throw away lipstick?

According to Zeichner, things that come into direct contact with your skin, like mascara or eyeliner need to be replaced more often than other products. It's recommended that you replace mascara every three months, lipsticks every year and eyeliner every three to six months (though pencils last longer than liquids).

Can you do anything with old lipstick?

As we've mentioned previously, lipstick has a very low melting point, meaning you can turn it into a liquid by microwaving it for as little as 5-10 seconds. So, why not grab your rejected lipsticks and create your very own unique colour combination by mixing them?!

What is the forbidden lipstick?

Forbidden Lipstick: An intensely saturated, rich and luxuriant lipstick carefully crafted to reveal bold, daring color and impart enduring moisture. Forbidden Lipsticks offer beautifully dense pigmentation that is remarkably lightweight on the lips; even the boldest shades feel like a comfortably long-wearing balm.

How to disinfect lipstick?

Twist out the lipstick and dip it (not the entire tube, just the product within ) in 70% or higher rubbing alcohol for a few seconds. Remove and let dry.

Is it OK to accidentally lick lipstick?

Types of makeup are minimally toxic if ingested in small amounts, such as a taste or a lick. This may cause mild upset stomach. Cosmetic items with semi-permanent pigment, like hair dye, eyelash tint or eyeliner tattoo ink, may be more toxic. If your child ate any of these items, call IPC at 1-800-222-1222.

Is it OK to use someone else's lipstick?

A lip balm or lipstick can carry a variety of germs, including viruses. If you want to avoid contracting cold sores, don't share lipsticks or tints with others. Although your girlfriend might not appear to show any signs of irritation, they could still be infected with the virus that causes them.

Can you use 5 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 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.

How long is lipstick OK to use?

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. Lipstick is good for one to two years, and lip gloss can be used for six months to 1 year.

Why throw out old lipstick?

Preservatives in makeup don't last forever.

In general, to maintain a clear and attractive complexion you should discard old makeup. It can harbor germs, degrade, and become rancid.

What makeup to throw away?

Liquid Foundation: after 6 months to 1 year. Cream Makeup: after 6 months to 1 year. Lipstick: after 1 year. Powder Makeup: after 2 years.

Can bacteria grow on lipstick?

The percentage occurrence of bacterial isolated from used lipsticks was 70% while that from un-used samples were 30%. The result shows that there is more bacterial occurrence on the used samples than the un-used sample.

How do you know when to throw out lipstick?

6. Lipstick. Unless it turns gooey, smells rubbery, or no longer applies to your lips, you can safely use lipstick for at least eight months. Of course, if lipstick comes into contact with a cold sore or another type of infection, throw it away.

What does lipstick mold look like?

Mold on lipstick is noticeable. It appears as fuzzy spots on the lipstick. These spots can be of various colors, including green, black, white, or even pink.

Is it safe to use used lipstick?

Liquid foundations and concealers, cream eyeshadows, lipsticks, and lip gloss are a riskier secondhand purchase because there is no easy way to sanitize them, warns Dr. Turner.

How can I reuse old lipstick?

My fave is to melt with some beeswax, solid oil (like Shea, cocoa, or mango butter), and maybe coconut oil (for shine). I use equal parts of the three when I do that combo and add a hefty shaving of lipstick. Melt up in a spoon like I'm a crackhead and pour into an old lip balm/stick tube or a pot.

How do you bring lipstick back to life?

Mix with a Lip Balm or Gloss
  1. Gently apply a thin layer of lip balm or gloss to the applicator.
  2. Mix it with the lipstick until it's well-blended.
  3. Apply and enjoy the softer, more moisturizing texture.
  4. Adding balm or gloss also makes the lipstick feel more comfortable, which is a bonus for those with dry lips.

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