Do makeup products expire?

Makeup products often have different expiration dates. If they continue to be used after this time, the skin can suffer various consequences.

Makeup lovers should keep in mind that certain precautions must be taken when using cosmetics. This ranges from their storage method, through observing the reaction they produce, to verifying if they have an expiration date. Because yes, makeup products expire.

Like other products on the market, makeup has an expiration date on its label that indicates how far it can be used safely. Not taking this information into account is counterproductive for skin health. Do you want to know more about it? Continue reading!

Do makeup products have an expiration date?

Yes, makeup products expire. Depending on the type and its components, the dates are lengthened or shortened. Likewise, factors such as hygiene, climate and the quality of the brand that are used influence. Some general examples are the following:

• The mascara lasts for three months.
• Creamy bases from 12 to 18 months.
• Lipstick and eyeliner last 12 months.
• The compact blush lasts for 24 months.

Anyway, it is convenient to check the labels of all cosmetics from time to time, since the date can vary between one brand or another.

Consequences of using expired makeup

A study released through International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that women tend to continue to use makeup products beyond their expiration date.

However, this practice is risky, since cosmetics become a source of contamination by pathogenic microorganisms. What are the consequences of using them?

1. Allergies

When cosmetics expire, the chemicals in them change and can lead to allergies. These can manifest in different ways, such as through dermatitis, inflammation, acne breakouts, watery eyes and burning.

2. Styes

The germs that grow in expired cosmetics used on the eyes cause blockages in the eyelids. For this reason, styes may appear. Because of this, you have to watch the expiration date of eyeliners or mascara.

A stye is an infection of the sebaceous glands of the eyelid, which usually appears when bacteria multiply in the area. It is distinguished as a bulge on the eyelids.

3. Cold sores

These are small blisters with fluid on the lips or around the area. They tend to group together to form spots. When they burst, they form a scab. In addition, they often cause burning and itching. Although its direct cause is infection by the herpes simplex virus, the use of expired lipsticks or balms can reactivate or worsen the infectious process.

4. Acne

Applying expired cosmetics increases the risk of acne. In particular, They cause alterations in the pH of the skin and clogged pores. The most damaging in this regard are usually powdered products and bases.

5. Dryness of the skin

Dry skin can be caused by several factors. However, when an expired product is used on the skin, its pH is altered. This leads to a decrease in the production of oils by the sebaceous glands. Therefore, if you notice sudden dryness on your skin, check the expiration date of the cosmetics you use daily.

6. Premature aging

The clogging of the pores that arises as a result of the use of expired makeup affects the premature aging of the skin. Since it hinders cellular oxygenation and the transport of nutrients, the skin loses its radiance and firmness. Likewise, the production of collagen and elastin is affected.

Collagen is an essential protein in the body, which maintains firmness and elasticity. For its part, elastin maintains water and preserves skin hydration. Both substances are important to maintain a good appearance.

4 signs that a makeup product has expired

Although the most common way to know if the makeup has expired is to check the date, if it says "12 M" somewhere, this means that it is better to change it after one year. However, there are other ways to know if the products are already expired. It is enough to pay attention to certain changes.

1. Texture changes

When the blush is overdue, it is common for the texture to change and become harder. It's the same for liquid concealer, which starts to get harsh over time. In the case of liquid eyeliners, they start to clump. Meanwhile, when liquid bases expire, they tend to become solid. That is why you have to watch them.

2. Aroma

Changes in the scent of cosmetics are also signs that they have expired. If you have mascara, but don't know how long they have with you, smell it. If there is a slight smell of gas, it is a sign that you should throw it out and buy another. The same goes for concealer for dark circles in cream or stick.

3. Color changes

In the case of cosmetics such as eye shadows or crayon eyeliners, their color changes over time. Different colored spots may also appear. The same goes for lipsticks, which also become lumpy.

4. Variations in flavor

Lipsticks that have fruity flavors tend to turn bitter after they expire. Therefore, it is necessary to monitor these characteristics and try to avoid their use so as not to suffer harmful effects.

Makeup products expire and must be replaced

It is clear that makeup products expire. In addition, its use in these conditions can cause health problems in the skin. Therefore, the most feasible is to look at the date PAO (Period After Opening) and take it into account.

In this way, you will know when you will have to renew each product for safety. Similarly, do not forget to take into account the changes that indicate that the cosmetics are no longer suitable for use; smell, texture, color, etc.