Sang An
Expiration Dates for Beauty Products
You know your makeup and skin-care items won't last forever, but for how long are they good? Check out this guide.
- Anti-aging and acne treatments: Three months to a year. Antioxidants are easily oxidized, so be on the lookout for any changes in color.
- Body lotion: Two to three years, particularly if it’s in a pump container.
- Shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel: About three years.
- Bath oil: One year.
- Sunscreen: Check the package for an expiration date.
- Mascara and liquid eyeliner: Three to four months. Make sure you’re diligent about replacing these items to prevent contamination and infections.
- Eye and lip pencils: Three to five years. Sharpen them before each use as a way to preserve them and keep them clean.
- Lipstick and lip gloss: Two to three years.
- Foundation: About two years. Most bottles are designed to last that long. And if you don’t use it, chances are you didn’t love it to begin with.
- Perfume: About two years. To get more mileage out of a perfume, resist the temptation to display a pretty bottle on your vanity. Instead, stash it away in a cool, dark place.
- Nail polish: One year.
- Hairstyling products: Three to five years. Most are alcohol-based, which helps preserve the formula.
- Bar soap: Up to three years.
- Shaving cream: About two years.
- Deodorant: Up to two years.
Related Content
How To: Assemble a Makeup Brush Kit
Purchasing a preassembled cosmetic brush set isn’t always the best use of your money. This video shows how to make a personalized set by choosing nine essential brushes.
Advertisement
Quick Tip
If you color your hair, apply a leave-in conditioner before sitting in the sun to prevent dryness. And spray oil-free sunscreen on your part to keep your scalp from burning. Get more tips.
In The Magazine
RSS
Inside Real Simple
Copyright © 2010 Time Inc. Lifestyle Group. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited.
