by Ellen Page

Created on: January 24, 2013   Last Updated: May 13, 2013

Believe it or not, most makeup products should only be kept for three months. Once makeup is opened and used, it is best to be used within a certain timeframe. This is because makeup collects germs and bacteria which can be unhealthy to your skin and hazardous to your health. The reason for many to wear makeup is to enhance and beatify, and for others it is to give a new look. You certainly wouldn't want bad skin from unhealthy makeup, as that would just defeat the purpose. While there's no 

expiration date placed on makeup, there are some guidelines as to how long to hold on to makeup.

How long should you keep makeup?

In general, most makeup products have a three-month shelf life once opened, however, this can depend on a few other factors. Each makeup product varies, as does the way it is stored. Some makeup is best discarded after three months, while other makeup products can be kept for longer. Knowing when to replace makeup can help you to make wise purchases and take care of the products you use.

Foundation

Once opened a good foundation liquid or powder can last for up to 18 months. To help get the longest shelf life, be sure to use clean applicators and apply on clean skin. Always wash your applicators after each use, and store your foundations in a cool, dry place for best results.

Eye pencils

If you sharpen your eye pencil after each time it is used, you can hold onto it for up to two years. Each time it is sharpened, it is renewed, keeping it hygienic. Be sure to keep the cap on when not in use and store in a cool, dry place. However, for liquid eye liners, they are best to be replaced every three months.

Mascara

Mascara is the one product that has a 3 month shelf life once opened. If, however, you have an eye infection, you should discard the mascara, as it could cause another infection from the bacteria. Another indication that it is time to get new mascara is when it has dried up. To prevent this from occurring, only dip the wand in once on each use.

Eye shadow

Providing you clean your eye shadow applicators after each use, you can easily get 12 months use out of your creams and up to two years out of your powders. Ensure that the eye shadow is sealed prior to purchase, which ensures hygiene and the best shelf life. Always securely close your eye shadow pots and pallets after use to keep them clean.

Lipstick

Lipstick actually has a good shelf life and can be kept for up to 12 to 24 months if kept clean and hygienic. Always apply lipstick to clean lips and replace the cap after each use. Never share lipsticks, and store them appropriately. Lip pencils can last the same amount of time, and should be sharpened regularly to keep them clean.

If you use clean applicators on clean skin and store makeup in a cool dry place, you can get the most out of your makeup. Close all makeup products securely and store neatly in a cool, dry place and discard any that start to look or smell unusual. If in doubt, throw it out. Take into consideration the timeframe of makeup when making your next purchase, and opt to buy products that are more cost effective, or even buy smaller products of your favorites where possible. You can always date your makeup on the underside to keep tabs.

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