How Long Does Your Makeup Last?

It is often only after we've opened up all our makeup drawers getting ready for a special occasion that we notice how much we have. It can be so easy to hold onto every eye pencil and lipstick just in case, but how long does makeup last for really? We're sharing the use-by-dates you should follow to keep your makeup collection at its best.

Tips for Keeping your Makeup in Top Condition

Even when makeup is fairly new, it can cause skin problems and reactions if you aren't careful about keeping it in good condition. There are a few housekeeping rules to look out for when storing your makeup, to make sure you can use it right up to its best before date.

• Don't double dip. Only use clean brushes and sponges to dip into product, so you don't spread any bacteria into your makeup. Pump products are usually the most hygienic as they stay sealed shut.
• Don't pump your mascara. This actually just ends up drying it out faster and can introduce bacteria into the tube.
• Keep things in the dark. A lot of formulas are prone to sun damage; they can degrade and lose efficacy. Keeping your makeup away from direct sunlight can help it last longer.
• Check any changes in texture. If the formula separates, becomes runnier or thicker, then it is probably past its best.
• Keep it out the bathroom. To make sure you don't encourage the growth of things like Yeast or Mould in your products, avoid storing makeup anywhere with a lot of warmth or humidity.

How Long to Keep your Makeup

Depending on the type of product, your makeup tends to have different shelf-lives. Although you should always keep an eye on the condition of your makeup, these are the ballpark figures you should use as a guideline for keeping your makeup around:

2. Bourjois Rouge Velvet Lipstick (Various Shades)

Bourjois Rouge Velvet Lipstick (Various Shades)

47

COMING SOON

Keep for: 6 months to 1 year Everyone knows about that lipstick that your nan wore decades ago and still keeps in her bag, but most lipstick won't keep beyond a year. If you notice it drying out, any oils separating or a funny smell, it is probably time to clear it out and replace your favourite colours. Treat yourself to a new one: With a soft liquid formula that glides onto the lips and leaves a matte finish, we love the Bourjois Rouge Velvet Lipstick.

3. NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer

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2427

RRP: £27.00Current price: £24.30

QUICK BUY

Keep for: 6 months to 1 year Foundations and tinted moisturisers can easily degrade and oxidise with time, as well as becoming a breeding ground for bacteria. This is the same for cream blushes and bronzers too. If you have a pump or tube formula, it may last for longer but to keep your skin breakout free, keep it fresh. Treat yourself to a new one: The NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer is our number 1 bestselling concealer and gives a totally flawless finish.

4. Maybelline Eye Shadow Palette - The Nudes

Maybelline Eye Shadow Palette - The Nudes

22

£11.99

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Keep for: 1 Year Eyeshadows and pencil liners generally last quite well, at their dryer formulas tend to keep them more stable. The trick to keeping them effective and hygienic is to always use a fresh makeup brush and to sharpen the pencils regularly. Treat yourself to a new one: Maybelline's palette of nude shadows is one of those ideal everyday products that can be used for everything from subtle to bold.

5. benefit Hoola 8g

benefit Hoola 8g

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£32.50

COMING SOON

Keep for: 18 months to 2 years Your powder bronzers, blushes and foundations tend to last the longest of all of your makeup. Just keep an eye on any that are enriched with ingredients like Jojoba oil, as these can destabilise a little earlier, turning your powders chalky and crumbly. Treat yourself to a new one: Benefit Hoola Bronzer is a cult classic. This matte bronzer works for so many skin tones, giving a perfect healthy glow.