How long does makeup last after opening?
Most cosmetics carry a small open jar symbol with a number, such as 6M or 12M. That is the period after opening, the number of months a product stays safe and effective once air, fingers and brushes have touched it. It is different from an expiry date, which applies to an unopened product sitting on a shelf.
Liquid and creamy products spoil fastest because water lets bacteria grow. Dry powders last the longest. Anything used around the eyes has the shortest life of all, because bacteria from a mascara wand can go straight back into the eye.
Makeup shelf life chart
| Product | Replace after opening |
|---|---|
| Mascara, liquid eyeliner | 3 months |
| Makeup sponges | 3 months, or sooner if torn |
| Liquid foundation, concealer, cream blush | 12 months |
| Lip gloss, liquid lipstick | 12 months |
| Lipstick | 18 months |
| Powders, eyeshadow, pencil liners | 24 months |
| Skincare serums, moisturizer, sunscreen | 12 months, or the printed date on sunscreen |
| Perfume | About 3 years |
What happens if you use expired makeup?
Old products often just stop working well: foundation separates, mascara dries out and sunscreen loses protection. More importantly, bacteria and fungi can build up, which can cause breakouts, skin irritation or, with eye products, conjunctivitis. Throw out anything that has changed smell, color or texture, whatever the date says, and always replace eye makeup after an eye infection.
How to make your makeup last longer
Store products in a cool, dry drawer rather than a steamy bathroom, close lids tightly, wash brushes every week or two and never add water or saliva to dried out products. Sharpen pencil liners before use to remove the top layer. Now that your kit is fresh, build a routine with the skincare routine builder, find flattering shades with the seasonal color analysis quiz, and get inspiration from our makeup guide.
