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Read Let's Face It Archives Here
How Old is Too Old?
The Lifespan of a Typical Skincare Product
Rarely will you find an expiration date on makeup or skincare. There are few, if any, regulations and the life of a product varies
astronomically. So, how do you know when old is too old? Let’s consider some of the criteria and variables…
- Do you use it near your eyes?
If so, it’s best to replace it frequently. Mascara is especially susceptible to going bad. The dark, damp packaging makes it the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Replace it every 3-6 months or any time you have an eye infection or concern. Other eye makeup is generally okay for up to 3 years.
- Does it smell funny?
Sometimes a lipstick or moisturizer will take on a strange odor. If that happens, don’t question it, just discard it, especially the moisturizer. It’s not worth taking a chance that your skin will react badly to it or that it just isn’t doing its job anymore.
- Is it in a jar?
Any product in a jar becomes contaminated almost from the time you open it. And, the second you stick your fingers in it, you need to use it regularly and use it up. Unless you wash your hands and clean under your nails fastidiously each time before using this product, it’s lifespan is shortened! The germs from your hands and under your nails (the worst culprit) are transferred to the product and have a little party!
- Do you share the product?
If you share it, reconsider. It’s generally best to keep your skincare and makeup to yourself — with the exception of products that are packaged in such a way that you can’t contaminate the contents by sharing.
- Does it have an SPF?
Chemical sunscreens (which is most of them — the ones that blend into your skin immediately and easily) have a definite expiration. You want to use it up within a short period of time unless it specifically tells you how long it will last. If it’s a product containing titanium dioxide and zinc oxide as the sun protection (these are physical sunscreens) then the lifespan is longer.
- Has the consistency changed?
If the product has separated noticeably it has probably lost its effectiveness and should be discarded. Moisturizers might have what looks like an oil sitting on top. Lipsticks will sometimes become sticky or gooey. These are signs it’s time to replace them.
- Is it more than 3 years old?
Throw it away. The exception is eye and lip pencils. Just sharpen them to remove the top ayer of the pencil.
Most products don’t like extreme temperatures. Store them in a cool, dry cupboard and if you must keep them in your car, replace them frequently.
It might seem to make sense economically to make something last as long as possible, but the reality is that if you’re not using it up on a regular basis (e.g., 6 months, a year), then you're really wasting the product and not getting the results. Perhaps you want to find a product that you like better and want to use more often. Skincare is designed to be used on a daily basis to keep your skin healthy and happy. Having it last for an excessive amount of time means it’s not the right product for you. Throw it out and keep looking!
To set up a skincare consultation with me, please e-mail me at ginger@totalimageconsultants.com. You'll be asked to fill out the skincare profile form skincare profile form before the consultation and to bring your current skin products with you. See more information on the services page of my website here.
Copyright 2004, Total Image Consultants - All rights reserved.
Skincare Fashion Secret 2004 is written and produced by Total Image Consultants. Please direct all questions and comments to
ginger@totalimageconsultants.com. If you would like to forward this newsletter, please do so in its entirety. Do not alter its content or form and please include copyright info. Thank you.
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