By Funke Babs Kufeji
Ever found an old lipstick at the bottom of your bag and thought, “Hmm, I can still use this, right?” Or maybe you’re holding on to that trusty foundation bottle from two summers ago? Well, it might be time for a serious makeup drawer detox! Makeup has an expiration date, and using old products can lead to breakouts, irritation, and worst of all—bacteria buildup (yikes!).
So, how do you know when to toss your favourite beauty products? Here’s your ultimate guide to knowing when it’s time to let go.
1. Foundation
Shelf life: 6 months – 2 years (depending on type)
Signs it’s expired:
- If it starts separating into layers (oil on top, colour at the bottom—big red flag!).
- Changes in texture—if it feels too thick, too runny, or just off.
- A weird smell (if it stinks, it sinks!).
- Breakouts or irritation when applied.
Pro tip: Store it in a cool, dry place and shake it before use to keep it fresh longer!
2. Mascara
Shelf life: 3 – 6 months
Signs it’s expired:
- The formula thickens, dries out, or gets clumpy.
- It starts flaking (hello, raccoon eyes!).
- Your eyes feel irritated or itchy after applying.
Pro tip: Never pump the wand—it pushes air (and bacteria!) into the tube, making it dry out faster.
3. Lipstick & Lip Gloss
Shelf life: 1 – 2 years
Signs it’s expired:
- The texture feels sticky, crumbly, or waxy.
- It develops a funky smell (lipstick shouldn’t smell like crayons, trust us!).
- The colour changes or looks uneven when applied.
Pro tip: Keep your lipstick in a cool place and always wipe the top after use to avoid bacteria buildup!
4. Eyeshadow
Shelf life: 1 – 2 years (powder), 6 months – 1 year (cream)
Signs it’s expired:
- The colour payoff isn’t what it used to be.
- The texture becomes dry or hard (if you have to dig into the pan, it’s time to part ways).
- A strange smell (again, if it stinks, it sinks!).
Pro tip: Always close the lid tightly to keep eyeshadows fresh and bacteria-free.
5. Blush & Bronzer
Shelf life: 1 – 2 years
Signs it’s expired:
- The texture changes—it becomes flaky, hard, or chalky.
- A weird smell (sensing a trend here?).
- It starts irritating your skin (not cute).
Pro tip: Powder formulas last longer than cream ones, but if your blush looks off, it’s time to let go.
6. Makeup Brushes & Sponges
Shelf life: Brushes (years, if cleaned regularly), Sponges (3 – 6 months)
Signs it’s expired:
- Bristles start shedding or feel rough (nobody likes a scratchy brush!).
- Your sponge has stubborn stains that won’t wash out.
- It smells… off (again, bacteria buildup is real!).
Pro tip: Wash brushes weekly and replace sponges regularly—bacteria love damp beauty blenders!
7. Eyeliner (Pencil, Gel, Liquid)
Shelf life: 6 months – 1 year
Signs it’s expired:
- Pencil eyeliners feel dry and don’t glide smoothly.
- Gel liners dry out, crack, or become flaky.
- Liquid eyeliners start smudging more than usual or irritate your eyes.
Pro tip: Sharpen pencils often and always close gel liners tightly to keep them from drying out!
8. Setting Sprays & Primers
Shelf life: 1 – 2 years
Signs it’s expired:
- The formula separates, and no amount of shaking helps.
- It doesn’t spray evenly anymore.
- It causes irritation when applied.
Pro tip: Store it in a cool place and shake it well before use to get an even application every time!
