When I returned from my summer holiday in the US, my suitcase was filled with lots of goodies that I’ll be trying out over the next few weeks. Whether it’s skincare or make-up, there’s nothing like having some newness in my bathroom cabinet. And as I was able to take advantage of summer shopping specials and autumn announcements, my bag was very full for the return flight.
As I tried to find homes for all that came back to the UK with me, I concluded that an autumn clearout is needed. A purge to make way for what’s new and to get rid of what’s unloved and out of date.
Yes, cosmetics and skincare do go out of date. Generally, they will have a symbol on the back of the packaging that indicates how long they can be used for, once they have been opened. Look for this sign on your bottle, jar or tube. This tells you how many how many months the product can be used for after opening.
While this notification is helpful, I generally find the bigger challenge is remembering how long I’ve had something. Writing start dates on what I’m using is helpful to determine when it’s ready to toss.
However, if you haven’t taken this anal approach and your memory is playing tricks on when you started that foundation, the product itself may tell you when it’s time to toss. How? Changes in colour, scent and / or consistency are your clues. If it looks different, smells different or feels different, then it’s time to say goodbye.
In case you don't want to wait for the tell-tale signs that something has expired, here are some guidelines for life expectancy: skincare and liquid make-up (think foundation and concealer) will be generally be good for 6 months to 1 year. Hair care, perfume and nail polish remain usable for about 2 years while powder-based cosmetics (think blush and eye shadow) along with lipstick and eye liners can stay fresh for up to 3 years. Mascara and liquid eyeliner have a shelf-life of just 3 to 6 months.
And while we’re talking about expirations dates, let’s also talk about packaging. Specifically, what will help to keep your products fresh.
For me, there is nothing more satisfying than opening a jar and scooping out what I need to apply, be it mask or moisturiser. This packaging also helps me feel satisfied that every last bit gets used. However, this format allows for the fastest product breakdown due to contact with air and bacteria.
Exposure to air means active ingredients lose their effectiveness more quickly. And while clean hands are de rigueur for make-up and skincare application, bacteria is always present and will have a greater opportunity to grow in a product that requires regular skin contact.
Whenever you can, choose skincare that is dispensed from an airless pump. This delivery format keeps product in its most pure form and germ-free to boot.
For the times when you can’t avoid purchasing a product that requires human contact, try using a fresh cotton bud to scoop out what you need. Some items are now sold with applicators, so be sure to use these when available. And of course, clean this tiny spatula between uses. Also, be sure to close products after each use and avoid storing in direct sunlight as this can lead to degredation.
In its most basic application, make-up gets a lot more hands-on contact, which is why I love to use brushes. Regularly cleaning these brushes and keeping make-up for personal use is the best way to minimise bacteria and contamination. At a minimum, I highly recommend that you do not share mascara, eye liner and lipstick, even with your bestie.
Most products in your bathroom are created through science, however I hope this will help you from initiating your own experiment at home!