When should you throw out lipstick?

Author: Burnice Huels  |  Last update: Friday, November 28, 2025

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.

Is lipstick still good after 10 years?

Shelf Life: Most lipsticks have a shelf life of about 1 to 2 years after opening. Over time, the ingredients can degrade, which might affect the lipstick's texture, color, and smell.

How do you know when to throw out lipstick?

Lipstick: That waxy layer on lipstick stays good up to a year before it starts to dry out. If it smells rancid, it's definitely time to toss it.

Is it okay to use 5 year old lipstick?

Yes, lipstick can expire. While it doesn't have a strict expiration date, it typically lasts about 1 to 3 years after opening, depending on the formulation and storage conditions. Unopened, most lipsticks can last up to 3 to 5 years.

Should you throw out old lipstick?

Lipstick/gloss/liner: 2 years max for lipstick. Shelf life can be extended by refrigerating. Lip gloss with a wand applicator may have a shorter shelf life. Lip liner 1 to 2 years.

When Should You THROW OUT MAKEUP? When Does MAKEUP EXPIRE? A Doctor Explains!

Can you use 20 year old makeup?

Most experts agree that no cosmetic product should be used after three years from opening.

How do you know if lipstick is bad?

Steps
  1. Check if the color has changed or has white spots. As lipstick ages, it typically starts to fade or darken. ...
  2. Look for moisture beads along the surface of the lipstick. As lipstick ages, the ingredients may start to separate. ...
  3. Smell the lipstick to check for unpleasant odors.

Can I use 10 year old lip balm?

The short answer is yes, lip balms do expire. Most lip balms have a shelf life of two to three years, but this can vary depending on the ingredients used in the product.

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.

Is there any use for old lipstick?

Create A Tinted Lip Balm

Repurpose your lipstick into a nourishing tinted lip balm in a matter of minutes! Combine one part lipstick with three parts petroleum jelly (vaseline) or coconut oil, then microwave for 5-10 seconds. Mix well and pour into any small container you have handy, ideally an old lip balm tin.

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.

How long does 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.

When should you replace lipstick?

Lipstick and lip gloss

Your mouth is home to 700 species of bacteria and other microbes, which can easily make their way into your lip products. Because of this, lipsticks should be replaced every 1 to 2 years.

What will happen if I use expired 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.

Does mascara expire?

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.

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.

Is it safe to use 10 year old lipstick?

Lipsticks and lip glosses should be thrown away after one to two years of use. Even if your lotion, sunscreen or makeup hasn't reached its recommended disposal date, it's best to get rid of it if you note a significant change in texture, color or smell.

What is the shelf life of lipstick?

Both lipstick and lip gloss should last at least one year, and both are unlikely to last much longer than 18 months. This is because these products contain essential oils and vitamins, as well as preservatives which naturally start breaking down after twelve months or so.

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.

Can I use expired vaseline on my lips?

While using Vaseline past its “best by” date may not be harmful, it may be less effective in providing the intended benefits. If you notice any changes in the texture, color, or odor of the Vaseline, or if it causes any skin irritation, it is best to discard the product and purchase a new one.

Can I use expired makeup?

Using expired skin care products and makeup can be dangerous to the health of our complexions. The easiest way to know when to throw an eye shadow or concealer away is to look at the packaging.

When to throw out lip balm?

Lipstick and lip balm

“Use these for six months tops,” says Dr. Khetarpal. “Our lips have a lot of bacteria on them, so these products get contaminated quickly.” And if you get a cold sore, throw out all your lip products and start fresh.

Can mold grow on lipstick?

1. Cracks and Mold on Lipstick. The first step to check whether a lipstick is still good to use is look to at the appearance of the lipstick. Examine the surface of your lipstick for visible cracks or any signs of mold growth.

Does old lipstick smell?

“These products contain lipids that will oxidize, so they'll start to go rancid and smell 'off' eventually,” Pagán warns. A lot of the time, lipstick ends up smelling like a crayon. If this happens, it's a good indication that the product has gone off.

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