A ‘Makeup Date’ That You Cannot Brush Off

Beauty & The Beast

Most consumers, when purchasing cosmetics or skincare products (lipsticks, foundations, mascaras, sunscreens, serums, body wash, or serums) tend to focus more on brand, price, or shade instead of the product’s ‘Expiry Date.’ Many unknowingly use these items for months, even years past despite its expiration date.

Just like food, makeup products in hot and humid places like India expire faster because heat and moisture encourage bacteria and mould growth. So even if it looks okay, it may not be safe. “When your makeup or skincare products expire, they start to change sometimes in ways you can see, smell, or feel. Powders (like compact, blush, eyeshadow) might become dry, flaky or hard to blend. They can look patchy or stop working well. Liquids and creams (like foundation, concealer, moisturiser, serum) can separate, smell weird, feel sticky or get lumpy. Lipsticks or glosses may dry out, smell bad, or change texture. Eyeliners and mascaras can dry up or develop bacteria, which may even cause eye infections,” says Gayethri Chakravarty, National Creative Director Makeup- Lakme Salon.

The Risk Factor

The expiry date is not just a formality — it’s a safety indicator. Continuing to use products beyond this limit can lead to significant skin issues. Using expired cosmetics can pose risks to your skin and overall health. Dr Arti Sharma, Senior Consultant, Derma Puritys Aesthetic Clinic, states, “Over time, the active ingredients in makeup and skincare products degrade, which means they lose their effectiveness and can become harmful. Bacteria and fungi can grow in these products, especially those exposed to air and skin, like mascara, lip gloss, or liquid foundations. Applying such products can lead to clogged pores, allergic reactions, acne flare-ups, eye infections, and even skin rashes. Fragrance and preservative components also break down, causing irritation or allergic responses in sensitive skin types. Skincare products like serums, concealers, sunscreens, or acne treatments lose potency post-expiry, rendering them ineffective or counterproductive.”

Using expired cosmetics may seem harmless, but the results can be severe. For example, applying an expired lipstick can cause dryness, chapping, or even bacterial infections around the mouth due to contamination. “I have seen cases of allergic dermatitis and chronic breakouts from using products well beyond their safety period. Expired concealers and foundations can clog pores, causing breakouts or skin dullness because the formulation degrades over time. Using old mascara or eyeliner increases the risk of eye infections, conjunctivitis, or styes, since the moist environment supports bacterial growth. Eye shadows past their shelf life can also cause eyelid irritation or puffiness. An expired beauty face mask, instead of refreshing your skin, can result in redness, itchiness, or chemical burns due to oxidised ingredients,” adds Dr Arti. Even sealed products degrade over time. The breakdown of ingredients, especially in natural or preservative-free products, can begin even in unopened bottles due to temperature, light exposure, and packaging.

Check the Date

Depending on the makeup product or what the formulation is, expiration dates will differ from each other. “Check the label or bottom of the packaging, most products have an expiry or 'use before' date printed. Some show a small open jar symbol with “6M” or “12M”, which means 6 months or 12 months after opening. Write the date of opening with a marker when you first use any product. Keep track of how the product looks, smells, or feels — if anything changes, it’s better to stop using it,” says Gayethri.

The market is flooded with natural, Ayurvedic, herbal, and even chemical-based products. “Be an alert consumer before buying. Always check the list of ingredients if you’re prone to allergies or have sensitive skin. Certifications are required if the product claims to be organic, Ayurvedic, or natural. Identify your skin type and skin concern, and choose products accordingly. Preservatives are often added to skincare and makeup to prevent bacterial growth and extend shelf life. Understand the role of preservatives and choose products with suitable preservatives for your skin type,” says Divita Kanoria, the founder of Tatha, a plant stem cell skincare brand rooted in nature.

Make-up hygiene Matters

Makeup hygiene plays a critical role in maintaining healthy, infection-free skin. Regular cleaning and timely replacement of brushes, sponges, and applicators are essential, as they can harbour bacteria and dead skin cells, clean tools regularly, especially those used around sensitive areas like the eyes, should be disinfected weekly, and also clean brushes with mild shampoo or brush cleanser. Never share personal makeup products and brushes. It increases the risk of cross-contamination.

“Clean make-up tools like eyelash curlers and tweezers with soap and water. Use clean, dry fingers or spatulas to scoop out the product. Avoid storing makeup in bathrooms, as humidity shortens shelf life. Discard products if a change in texture, colour or smell is noticed. Close the lids tightly after every use to avoid oxidation,” adds Divita.

Don’t save products for special occasions if their expiry is nearby. Use them wisely and regularly. And if they’ve expired, toss them. Expiry dates are not just legal requirements; keeping track of expiry dates ensures your skin stays healthy and your makeup works as meant to be.