When to discard cosmetics
It’s easy to think that cosmetics will be there forever. That lipstick that you bought years ago and with which you only painted yourself twice, can be used at any time you need it. Or that that cream that you did not like so much you can use next Christmas.
Nothing to see. Cosmetics expire and when they expire they change the color, texture and, above all, can cause skin diseases and allergies.
It is not convenient to use your cosmetics when they have been open for a long time. Likewise, it is not convenient to treat them badly. For example, if you leave your makeup bag in the car, in the sun, you can be sure that you will affect the components.
It is best to discard your cosmetics in any of these circumstances:
1 Expiration date
Cosmetics also have an expiration date, which you can easily see at the checkout. They usually have an image of a pot of cream and a number followed by the letter M. That means the number of months the product can be used from the date you first opened it. Even if you didn’t open it, chances are there will come a time when even if you have never used it, it will start to degrade.
Every time you buy a cosmetic, check the date indicated by the number. This way you will know how long you can use it. Another option is to put the opening date marked with a small ribbon on the container, so you will always keep it in mind.
2 Change in smell, color, or texture
You bought a base, a blush, a lipstick that you didn’t pay much attention to. One day you decide it’s time and you see that the base is cut and not emulsified. Don’t even think about removing it to put it back together. It is better to throw it away because its date has already arrived.
If it is a blush that you notice a major change in color, it may be for the same reason. It’s broken down.
In the case of lipsticks, the usual thing is that the smell changes them for an unpleasant one. Once you feel the smell of spoiled lipstick you will know perfectly well that this was not the right one. Better put it in the trash.
3 After an illness
Maybe you had an infection that took several days to develop, or a stye, or a herpes. You’ve already been cured, fortunately, and you’re fine. But during the days before your illness you wore a mask, base or lipstick. How do you know your cosmetics aren’t contaminated? In that case, we recommend that you discard them. Chances are you’ll have a relapse because bacteria are still in your cosmetic. The price of a cosmetic is very low and it is not worth getting sick again for saving.
By the way, that’s another reason why you should never share cosmetics with anyone, not even your best friend. Cosmetics are as personal as your toothbrush.
4 Estimated dates
Each cosmetic has an estimated duration. The mask lasts as little as three months. The eyeliner can reach six months. Powdered shade and compact powder, on the other hand, reach two years. If the shade is cream, it does not usually exceed a year and a half. A pencil eyeliner can last a year and more. The liquid base only lasts one year. And lipsticks reach up to two years.
5 Brushes and sponges
Brushes and sponges can also contribute to spoiling cosmetics. It is convenient that you always have them impeccably clean. Brushes should be washed once a week with a special soap. Then you remove the moisture and let them dry on an air towel.
Sponges, in turn, should be washed every other day to avoid skin irritations.
It is best that you have two sets of brushes and sponges, so that you can use one while the others dry.
Cosmetics are always in contact with your skin. Taking care of them is taking care of your dermis. If in doubt, it is better to discard them. And if you perceive changes in color, texture and smell, they are the absolute proof that they have already fulfilled their useful life.
