When was the last time you cleaned out your makeup bag or bathroom shelf? If you’re holding on to that mascara from 2021 or a half-used serum that’s been sitting around for ‘just in case’ moments — it’s time to rethink.
Expired skincare and makeup can do far more harm than good, and continuing to use them might compromise your skin’s health, cause irritation, or even lead to infection.
Why you shouldn’t use expired skincare or makeup
Skincare and cosmetic products are formulated to be safe and effective within a specific time frame. Once that window closes, the ingredients begin to break down, preservatives lose their power, and bacteria or mould can begin to grow. This not only reduces the product’s effectiveness but can cause unwanted side effects on your skin.
Here’s why expired products are a no-go:
Loss of potency: Active ingredients like Vitamin C, retinol, and acids degrade over time, making them less effective or even irritating.
Bacterial growth: Especially in cream or liquid formulas, expired products can become a breeding ground for bacteria and fungi.
Chemical changes: Over time, some formulas oxidise or separate, creating unstable or harmful compounds.
Fragrance and colour shifts: Many products begin to smell rancid or change colour once they’ve expired, indicating they are no longer safe.
Reactions that can occur from using expired products
Using expired skincare or makeup isn’t just wasteful — it can be dangerous. Here are some reactions you could face:
Irritation or rashes: Degraded ingredients can cause redness, itching, or burning sensations.
Acne breakouts: Old products can clog pores or introduce bacteria, leading to breakouts or flare-ups.
Eye infections: Using expired mascara, eyeliner, or eyeshadow is especially risky and can lead to conjunctivitis (pink eye), styes, or other serious infections.
Allergic reactions: Even if you’ve used a product before without any issues, an expired version might cause an allergic response due to chemical changes or contamination.
How to check expiration dates on skincare & makeup
Unfortunately, many products don’t list a clear expiration date — here’s how you can find out if it’s time to toss them:
1. Look for the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol
This symbol looks like a little open jar with a number inside, like 12M or 6M. It tells you how many months the product is safe to use after opening.
Example: 12M = 12 months from the time you first opened it.
Pro tip: Use a permanent marker to write the opening date on the bottom of the product.
2. Check for a batch code
Some brands print a batch code on the packaging, which can be entered into online checkers to find the manufacturing date.
3. Trust your senses
If the texture, colour, or smell has changed, don’t risk it. That ‘off’ smell or unusual separation is your product’s way of telling you it’s expired.
4. Know the general lifespans
Here’s a quick reference:
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Mascara: 3–6 months
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Liquid eyeliner: 3–6 months
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Foundation/concealer (liquid): 6–12 months
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Lipstick/lip gloss: 12–18 months
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Powder products (blush, bronzer, eyeshadow): Up to 2 years
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Serums/creams: 6–12 months (especially with active ingredients)
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Sunscreen: 1–2 years (always check the packaging)
It might be tempting to hang on to that old foundation or eye cream — especially if it was pricey — but using expired skincare and makeup just isn’t worth the risk. Treat your skin with the care it deserves by staying mindful of expiration dates, cleaning out your stash regularly, and replacing old favorites when the time comes.
Your skin will thank you — with fewer breakouts, less irritation, and better results overall.
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Featured Image: Pexels
