Does Makeup Expire? What to Toss & Replace During Prime Day

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Chances are, you have several makeup products that have been lingering in your drawer for quite some. sYou may be wondering if it’s time to toss it or if it’s still safe to use. You’re not the only one asking these questions, which is why we spoke with professional celebrity artist Thynna Wagenblast to find out.

Best Prime Day Summer Fridays deal: Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm

Miranda Kerr-Approved drugstore foundation: Almay Skintone Matching Foundation

Best Prime Day mascara deal: Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

How can I tell if makeup is expired?

Are you asking, "does makeup expire?" The short answer is yes, according to Wagenblast.

Similar to food and medication, makeup has expiration dates. Using expired makeup can cause irritation and wreak havoc on your skin. Even if old makeup doesn’t seem to affect your skin, expired formulas will perform differently than intended, especially those containing active ingredients.

“A good rule of thumb is to check the packaging for the PAO symbol, which looks like an open jar and indicates the product's shelf life after opening,” she explains. “You'll typically see 6M, 12M, or 24M, with the 'M' standing for months.”

Beyond that Wagenblast, advises to pay attention to changes in smell, texture, color, or performance. “If a product smells different, feels different, doesn't apply the way it used to, or has changed color, those are signs it may be expired.”

And of course, if a product causes any skin irritation, stop using it and throw it away immediately.

How long does makeup last?

"Eye products should be replaced most often—mascara and liquid eyeliner every 3 to 6 months since they’re closest to the eye and more prone to bacteria.”

"Lip products like lipstick and gloss typically last 1 to 2 years, though they should be replaced sooner if there are any changes in smell or texture.”

"Base products like foundation and concealer usually last about 6 to 12 months after opening.”

With that said, Wagenblast suggests keeping this caveat in mind: If you notice changes in smell, texture, or signs of irritation in any category, it’s time to toss the product.

How can I get makeup products to last longer?

While you can’t change the expiration date of your makeup, there are steps you can take to keep makeup bacteria-free.

“Keeping products tightly closed, storing them properly, and washing makeup brushes at least once a week are simple but effective ways to maintain good hygiene,” says Wagenblast.

“Overall, keeping makeup in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and moisture will help preserve its quality.” These small habits help keep bacteria under control, making your products safer to use.

What on-sale makeup products are worth restocking?

"If someone needed to fully refresh their makeup kit, I’d focus on reliable staples across every category," suggests Wagenblast. Luckily, Prime Day has got you covered with unmissable deals on foundation, concealer, mascara, and more essential products.

Almay Skintone Matching Foundation

Almay's liquid foundation formula instantly transforms from a white cream to your ideal shade as you smooth it on. Fan Miranda Kerr wears the shade 200 Light Medium. Get your shade on sale now!

bareMinerals Original Loose Powder Foundation SPF 15

This loose powder sets makeup while providing buildable coverage. Plus, it contains SPF 15 for an added layer of sun protection. It has 25,000+ 5-star ratings.

Tarte Tartelette Tubing Mascara

Wagenblast recommends a "dependable lengthening mascara that also has lash-care benefits." This must-have tubing mascara is Infused with conditioning shea butter and castor oil, and makes lashes appear thicker and longer.

Tarte Shape Tape Concealer

The fan-favorite Tarte Shape Tape Concealer provides flawless, smooth coverage to tackle under eye circles and blemishes. Choose from a wide variety of colors.

Charlotte Tilbury Lip Cheat Lip Liner Pencil

In Charlotte Tilblury's first-ever Prime Day sale, you can score the brand's iconic lip liners for less, including the viral Pillow Talk shade.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Lip Velvet

"I like Anastasia Beverly Hills liquid lipsticks and glosses for long-wear, comfortable color," says Wagenblast. This highly-pigmented one with a velvet-mousse texture dries down matte but won't leave lips crusty or flakey.

Anastasia Beverly Hills Lip Gloss

Achieve a juicy pout with this high-shine lip gloss with a glass-like formula. The unique formula never feels sticky and comes in several finishes, from sparkles to metallics.

Best of the Best Baked Palette

A Kyle Richards-loved pick, this makeup palette includes three baked eyeshadows in neutral shades, a Baked Bronze-n-Brighten in Tahitian Glow, two Baked Natural Glow Highlighters, and a Baked Blush-n-Brighten in Pink Buttercream.

Summer Fridays Blush Butter Balm

This blush melts into your cheeks and leaves behind a sheer flush of dewy, long-lasting color with its formula of a blend of shea, mango seed, and Illipe butters. Shop the rare sale now!

Milk Makeup Sculpt Stick

Sculpt and shape your cheekbones, nose, and jawline with this creamy contour stick. The cool undertones help create a natural-looking shadow for the ultimate snatched effect.

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