When was the last time you gave your makeup bag a good clean? We mean a proper, thorough, deep clean? No, we can't remember either... Considering the fact that we apply makeup directly to our skin, which we make such an effort to take care of, it's kind of weird that we'd blindly cover it in products that are unhygienic and aren't in the best shape.
Well, now is the time to throw away those crusty mascaras, bin that cracked powder, and chuck that goopy lipgloss in the trash. A new report from online hair and beauty retailer Hairtrade has revealed just how long your makeup products and tools last before getting, well, gross.
You can keep track of your favourite products' expiry date by noting the symbol found by the list of ingredients: a round pot with an open lid. On the symbol there will be a number and the letter 'M' – this is how long it'll last. For example, 12 M is 12 months, 5 M is five months, and so on.
Click through to see how long you should let each product, from sponges to powders, live in your makeup bag, and learn to keep your maquillage hygienic and fresh.
"Blending sponges should be replaced ideally every month and washed with cleanser after every use. It is important to replace these, and the signs you need to throw it away can include any deformities on the sponge, breaking out for no reason and discolouring."
"Because it can come in contact with your eyes, it is important to discard mascara after it has been opened for three months. This is to prevent bacteria from causing eye irritations or infections. Most mascara tubes are labelled with a shelf life of 4-6 months, so it is important to know this.
It is also recommended to avoid pumping your mascara, as this pushes air into the tube, which can dry out the mascara and cause bacterial contamination. When placing your wand into the tube, swirl it around in a circular motion to prevent air bubbles.
Throw away your mascara if it's dried out, or has a different texture, colour or scent. Also, NEVER add water."
"Creamy makeup products will only last around six months due to them providing more moisture for bacteria to thrive on. Keep an eye on creamy products for mould, smell or separation, and throw away if they look a little funny."
"Liquid eyeliner lasts around four to six months, as it’s a product that is fairly susceptible to bacteria. Pencil eyeliners can last up to two years but the cap should be kept tightly closed. (The same rules also apply for lip pencils as well.) If you’ve had an eye infection, always throw away eyeliners that you’ve previously used, as this could increase the risk of getting another infection."
"Liquids and cream foundations only last between 6-12 months, as they contain water, oils and other hydrating agents, which decrease the shelf life and increase bacteria. Powders can last up to two years, as it’s harder for bacteria to grow in products that are solid.
It is important to note that the ingredients in the foundation determine the germ growth. Always read the back of the label and make a note of when your foundation is due to expire. Wash your makeup tools regularly and also wash your hands before you apply."
"In a similar way to mascara, pumping the wand in the tube is also bad for lip-gloss. If your gloss is discoloured, or different in texture and thickness, it’s probably best to throw it away."
"Nail polish is one product that does go out of date. Once you open a polish, the product can evaporate which causes it to thicken and separate. Always remember to keep the lid securely fastened as this can make the product expire quicker."
"If your concealer is dried out, has a change in texture, becomes cakey/lumpy or smells different – throw it out immediately. Not only will the concealer be making your spots worse but it will also prevent you from getting a perfectly blended makeup look."
"Although most powders, blushes and bronzers have a shelf life of 18 months to 2 years, your powders should be fine even after they reach their expiration date.
Powders can become hard and have poor application after their expiration date, but you can minimise the bacterial contamination by lightly cleaning the product regularly and avoiding leaving the product exposed to air. Throw away powders with broken lids and check for mould and any unusual smells."
"Look after your lipsticks well and they can last up to two years. It’s important to remember to never leave them without a lid on and clean with a wipe occasionally to remove the top layer of bacteria growth."
"Although fragrances have a shelf life of 8-10 years, they can last for much longer if you store them correctly. Avoid heated rooms, strong lights and always keep the lid securely on between usages. The best place to keep your fragrances is a dark cupboard and regularly check for discolouration."
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