How Long Does Makeup Last? Here's When to Toss It and How to Check the Expiry

Introduction

If you’ve ever kept a lipstick for years or used the same mascara since last summer, you’re not alone. But here’s the truth: makeup products do expire—and using them past their shelf life can lead to breakouts, irritation, or infections. The good news? Most makeup tells you exactly when to toss it… you just need to know where to look.

Look for the Open Jar Symbol

On the back or bottom of almost every makeup product is a small open jar symbol (🫙) with a number inside it—like 6M, 12M, or 24M. This stands for how many months the product is good for after you open it.

• 6M = 6 months

• 12M = 12 months (1 year)

• 24M = 24 months (2 years)

  
  

📌 Tip: Write the open date on a sticker or in your notes when you first use it so you don’t forget.

General Makeup Expiry Guidelines

Here’s how long most products last once opened:

Face Products

• Foundation: 12 to 18 months

• Concealer: 12 to 18 months

• Primer: 12 months

• Powder (pressed or loose): 24 months

  
  

🧼 If it starts to smell off or separate, it’s time to go.

Eye Products

• Mascara: 3 to 6 months

• Liquid Eyeliner: 6 months

• Pencil Eyeliner: 12 to 24 months (sharpen regularly)

• Eyeshadow (powder): 24 months

• Cream Eyeshadow: 6 to 12 months

  
  

👁 Eye products expire faster—keep these fresh to avoid eye irritation.

Lip Products

• Lipstick: 12 to 24 months

• Lip Gloss: 12 months

• Lip Liner (pencil): Up to 2 years (if sharpened regularly)

  
  

👄 If it smells like crayons or feels sticky, it’s time to toss it.

Brows & Cheeks

• Brow Gel: 6 to 12 months

• Powder Blush/Bronzer: 18 to 24 months

• Cream Blush/Bronzer: 12 months

• Highlighter: Same as blush depending on formula

  
  

✨ Powders tend to last longer than creams.

Setting Sprays & Mists

• Facial Mist/Setting Spray: 12 to 18 months If it starts to smell strange or the mist pump clogs, replace it.

How to Make Your Products Last Longer

• Keep lids tightly closed

• Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight

• Don’t dip fingers directly into cream products

• Clean brushes and sponges weekly

Final Thoughts

Being mindful of makeup expiry dates isn’t just about hygiene—it’s about caring for your skin, your eyes, and the integrity of your beauty routine. Always check for the open jar symbol, trust your senses, and don’t be afraid to part with old favourites. Letting go creates space for better, fresher products that support your skin and your artistry.

Clean kit, clean skin, clean energy.

Love & Artistry, Philippa x

Makeup