Can You Use Expired Makeup? 12 Expert Tips to Know in 2025 💄

Have you ever stared at that crusty mascara or half-empty foundation and wondered, “Can I still use this, or is it time to toss it?” You’re not alone! Many makeup lovers hold onto products way past their prime, risking everything from breakouts to eye infections. In fact, studies show that over 70% of people admit to using expired cosmetics—yikes! 😱

But before you dive into your stash with a hopeful heart, this guide from the expert team at Makeup Brands™ will walk you through everything you need to know about makeup expiration. From decoding those mysterious PAO symbols to spotting the sneaky signs of spoilage, and even how to safely extend your product’s life, we’ve got you covered. Plus, we share personal horror stories (yes, swollen eyelids included) and smart decluttering hacks that will transform your beauty routine. Ready to find out if that old lipstick is a treasure or a troublemaker? Keep reading!

Key Takeaways

  • Expired makeup can harbor harmful bacteria and cause skin irritation or infections, especially eye products like mascara.
  • Always check the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol and printed expiration dates to know when to toss products.
  • Different products have different shelf lives: mascara lasts about 3 months, powders up to 2 years.
  • Signs of expired makeup include changes in smell, texture, color, and separation.
  • Proper hygiene and storage can extend your makeup’s safe use but never compromise on safety.
  • Decluttering regularly and following expert tips keeps your collection fresh and your skin happy.

Ready to refresh your routine safely? Dive into our full guide and become a savvy makeup detective today!

Table of Contents

Here is the main body of the article, written by the expert team at Makeup Brands™.

Body

Video: How to spot EXPIRED makeup.

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts: Your Essential Guide to Makeup Expiry

In a hurry? We get it! Here’s the lowdown on makeup expiration. Think of this as your cheat sheet to keep your face happy and healthy.

  • When in Doubt, Throw It Out! ✅ This is our golden rule. If a product smells weird, has changed color or texture, or just feels off, it’s time to say goodbye. Your skin will thank you.
  • The PAO Symbol is Your BFF: Look for a tiny open jar icon on your product’s packaging. The number inside (e.g., “6M,” “12M”) tells you how many months the product is good for after you’ve opened it.
  • Mascara is a Ticking Time Bomb: Seriously. Because it’s a wet product used so close to your precious eyes, it’s a breeding ground for bacteria. Toss it every 3 months, no exceptions. As the ophthalmologist in the featured video below points out, studies show that after three months, a significant percentage of mascara tubes are contaminated with some nasty stuff.
  • Powders Last Longest: Powder-based products like eyeshadows, blushes, and bronzers have a longer shelf life (typically 1-2 years) because their dry environment is less friendly to bacteria. But they’re not immortal!
  • Cleanliness is Key: Want to get the most out of your products? Always use clean hands and clean brushes. This simple step can dramatically reduce the amount of bacteria you introduce into your makeup. For more on this, check out our Beauty Tips.
  • Don’t Share Eye or Lip Products: Just… don’t. It’s a one-way ticket to sharing infections like pink eye or cold sores.
  • Sunscreen Loses Potency: This is a big one! Expired sunscreen won’t protect you effectively from UV rays, which can lead to sunburn and long-term skin damage. Pay close attention to the expiration date printed on the bottle.
  • “Clean” Beauty May Expire Faster: Many brands in the Cosmetics Industry are moving towards formulas with fewer preservatives. While great for some skin types, it can mean a shorter shelf life. Be extra vigilant with these products.

🕰️ The Unseen Clock: Understanding Makeup Shelf Life & Why It Matters

Ever looked at a beloved, half-used lipstick and thought, “It still looks fine… what’s the harm?” We’ve all been there! It’s easy to think of makeup as lasting forever, especially when it was a pricey investment or a limited-edition find. But every single cosmetic product has an invisible clock ticking down from the moment you open it.

This “clock” isn’t just a suggestion from brands to get you to buy more. It’s about two crucial things: safety and efficacy.

  1. Safety: Preservatives in makeup are designed to fight off the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold. But these preservatives don’t last forever. Once they break down, your favorite cream blush can become a petri dish.
  2. Efficacy: The active ingredients that make your products work—the pigments in your foundation, the SPF in your moisturizer, the vitamins in your serum—degrade over time. An old product simply won’t perform the way it was designed to.

Think of it like food. You wouldn’t eat yogurt that’s been open in your fridge for three months, right? The same principle applies to what you put on your face.

🤔 The Million-Dollar Question: Can You Really Use Expired Makeup Products?

So, let’s get right to it. Can you use that old, discontinued Urban Decay Naked Palette you’ve been cherishing? The short, professional, and slightly boring answer is no.

The longer, more nuanced answer is… it’s a calculated risk, and one we at Makeup Brands™ strongly advise against. An informal poll mentioned by Refinery29 found that 100% of respondents admitted to using out-of-date products. We see it all the time! But just because it’s common doesn’t make it a good idea.

🚨 The Hidden Dangers: Why Expired Cosmetics Are a No-Go for Your Skin & Health

Using expired makeup isn’t just about dealing with a clumpy mascara or a streaky foundation. You’re potentially exposing your skin and body to some pretty gnarly stuff.

As consultant dermatologist Dr. Emma Wedgeworth told Refinery29, “The concern after the expiry date is that products may change composition and therefore be more at risk of contamination from bacteria and moulds.” This is especially true for people with sensitive skin or compromised skin barriers, who are at a higher risk of irritation or infection.

🦠 Bacterial Contamination & Skin Irritation: The Unwanted Guests

What kind of “unwanted guests” are we talking about? Studies have found a whole host of microorganisms thriving in expired makeup, including bacteria like Staphylococcus and Pseudomonas, as well as fungus and even parasites. Yikes!

This contamination can lead to a range of unpleasant issues:

  • Acne and Breakouts: Clogged pores from old, separated product formulas.
  • Skin Irritation: Redness, itchiness, and rashes.
  • Contact Dermatitis: An allergic reaction causing bumps and even blisters.
  • Eye Infections: This is the big one. Using expired eye makeup can cause conjunctivitis (pink eye), styes, and blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids).

📉 Diminished Efficacy: When Your Holy Grail Just Doesn’t Perform Anymore

Beyond the health risks, old makeup just doesn’t work as well. A cosmetic chemist quoted in Refinery29 puts it perfectly: “The stability of an emulsion isn’t infinite and it breaks down over time.”

  • Foundation can become streaky and fail to blend.
  • Mascara will get dry and flaky, giving you raccoon eyes.
  • Eyeshadow pigments can become hard and difficult to pick up on a brush.
  • Skincare with active ingredients like Vitamin C or Retinol will lose its potency, meaning you’re not getting the benefits you paid for.

So, is it worth the risk of a nasty eye infection just to use up the last dregs of that pricey foundation? We think not.

🕵️ ♀️ Detective Work: How to Spot Expired Makeup Like a Pro

Okay, so you’ve lost the original packaging and have no idea when you opened that lipstick. How can you tell if it’s gone bad? It’s time to put on your detective hat and use your senses. Your nose and eyes are your best tools here.

👃 The Sniff Test: Unpleasant Odors & Chemical Changes

Your nose knows! A change in smell is one of the most obvious signs that a product has turned.

  • Crayon Smell: Lipsticks and other products with oils can oxidize and go rancid, often developing a smell like old crayons or wax.
  • Chemical or Sour Smell: Foundations and other liquid products might develop a sharp, chemical, or sour odor as the formula breaks down.
  • Funky, Musty Smell: This is a major red flag for bacterial or mold growth. If it smells funky, it is funky. ❌

🎨 Texture & Color Shifts: When Your Product Looks… Off

Next, give the product a good look. Has it changed since you bought it?

  • Color Change: Has your foundation oxidized to a darker or more orange shade? Has the vibrant color of your cream blush faded?
  • Texture Change: A once-creamy product might feel chalky or gritty. A liquid might become thick and goopy. Mascara often becomes dry and clumpy.

💧 Separation & Dryness: The Tell-Tale Signs of Spoilage

This is a big one for liquids and creams. Emulsions, which are mixtures of oil and water, are not infinitely stable.

  • “Lava Lamp” Effect: You might see the oils and pigments separating in your liquid foundation, creating a distinct layered look.
  • Dry and Cracked: Cream products and lipsticks can dry out, shrink, and even crack. Powder products can develop a hard, dense film on the surface (this is called “hardpan” and is caused by oils from your skin transferring to the product).

🗓️ Decoding the Dates: PAO Symbols vs. Expiration Dates on Your Products

To avoid the guesswork, it’s best to know your dates from the get-go. There are two main symbols to look for on your cosmetic packaging.

Understanding the PAO (Period After Opening) Symbol

This is the most common symbol you’ll see. It looks like a small, open jar with a number followed by the letter “M” (e.g., 6M, 12M, 24M).

  • What it means: This tells you how many months the product is safe and effective to use after you have opened it.
  • Why it’s important: The clock starts ticking the moment you break that seal and expose the product to air, light, and your fingers.
  • Tip: Get a fine-tipped permanent marker and write the date you opened the product directly on the packaging. No more guessing!

Some products, particularly those classified as over-the-counter (OTC) drugs by the FDA, will have a specific expiration date printed on them.

  • Products with EXP dates: This includes products like sunscreens and acne treatments (containing ingredients like salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide).
  • What it means: Do not use the product after this date, even if it’s unopened. The active ingredients are no longer guaranteed to be stable or effective.

💄 Product-Specific Expiry: A Deep Dive into Different Cosmetic Categories

Not all makeup is created equal when it comes to shelf life. Here’s a breakdown by category, from the shortest to the longest lifespan.

Product Category Typical PAO (Period After Opening) Why It Expires
Mascara & Liquid Eyeliner 3 months High risk of bacterial growth from the wand being re-inserted; proximity to eyes.
Liquid/Cream Foundation & Concealer 6-12 months Water-based formulas can breed bacteria; risk of separation.
Cream Blush & Eyeshadow 12-18 months Frequent contact with fingers can introduce bacteria.
Lipstick & Lip Gloss 1-2 years Oils can go rancid; repeated contact with the mouth.
Lip & Eye Pencils 1-2 years Can be “refreshed” by sharpening, removing the top layer.
Powder Products (Blush, Bronzer, Eyeshadow) 2 years Dry formula is less prone to bacterial growth, but can still harbor it.
Skincare (Serums, Moisturizers) 6-12 months Active ingredients can lose potency; jar packaging is prone to contamination.
Sunscreen Check printed EXP date (usually 2-3 years) Active SPF ingredients degrade and become ineffective.

1. Mascara & Liquid Eyeliner: The Shortest Shelf Life for Eye Safety

Shelf Life: 3 Months (Mascara), 3-6 Months (Liquid Eyeliner)

We’re starting here because it’s the most critical. As the ophthalmologist in the featured video warns, a study found that after just three months, one-third of mascara tubes were contaminated with bacteria and fungus. The dark, wet environment of the tube is a perfect incubator.

👉 Shop Mascara on:

2. Liquid & Cream Foundations/Concealers: A Breeding Ground for Bacteria?

Shelf Life: 6-12 Months

Your daily foundation can be a hotspot for contamination, especially if you dip your fingers directly into a pot or touch the dropper of a bottle to your skin. Look for changes in color, consistency (the dreaded “lava lamp” separation), or smell.

3. Lipsticks & Lip Glosses: Pucker Up, But Not with Old Product!

Shelf Life: 1-2 Years

While they last longer than liquids, lip products are still applied to your mouth, so hygiene is key. The oils in lipstick can go rancid, leading to that “crayon” smell and a change in texture. If you’ve been sick, it’s a good idea to sanitize your lipsticks with an alcohol spray or even slice off the very top layer.

4. Powder Products (Eyeshadows, Blushes, Bronzers): The Longest Lasting, But Not Forever

Shelf Life: 2 Years

Hooray for powders! Their lack of water makes them much more stable. However, they are not invincible. Oils from your fingers and brushes can transfer to the powder, creating a hard, shiny film (hardpan) that makes the product unusable.

  • Our Advice: If you get hardpan on a beloved powder like the Physicians Formula Murumuru Butter Bronzer, you can gently scrape the top layer off with a clean spoolie or even press a piece of tape onto the surface to lift the film away.

5. Skincare Products: Serums, Moisturizers, & Sunscreens

Shelf Life: 6-12 Months (Serums/Moisturizers), By EXP Date (Sunscreen)

Skincare is all about active ingredients, which are often fragile. Vitamin C, for example, can oxidize and become useless when exposed to air and light. Sunscreen is the most important—an expired SPF will not provide the stated level of protection.

6. Makeup Brushes & Sponges: Don’t Forget Your Tools!

Your tools can harbor more bacteria than the products themselves!

  • Brushes: Wash them weekly with a gentle soap or a specialized brush cleanser like the Cinema Secrets Makeup Brush Cleaner.
  • Sponges: These should be washed after every use and replaced every 1-3 months. A Beautyblender is porous and can trap bacteria deep inside.

✨ Extending Your Makeup’s Shelf Life (Safely!): Our Expert Tips for Cosmetic Hygiene

You can’t stop the clock, but you can definitely slow it down with good hygiene practices. This is how we pros keep our kits (and our skin) in top shape.

Clean Hands & Clean Tools: The First Line of Defense

This is non-negotiable. Always wash your hands before applying makeup. Think of all the things you touch throughout the day—do you want that on your face? The same goes for your tools. Dirty brushes not only apply makeup poorly but also spread old makeup, oil, and bacteria all over your skin.

Optimal Storage Solutions: Keeping Your Products Fresh

Where you store your makeup matters immensely. The number one worst place? A steamy bathroom. The heat and humidity create a tropical paradise for mold and bacteria.

  • ✅ Do: Store your makeup in a cool, dry, dark place, like a drawer in your bedroom or a dedicated makeup case.
  • ❌ Don’t: Leave it in your car, on a sunny windowsill, or next to the shower.

Avoiding Cross-Contamination: Don’t Double Dip!

  • Use a Spatula: For products in jars, like cream moisturizers or foundations, use a clean spatula to scoop out the product instead of your fingers.
  • Sharpen Pencils: Regularly sharpening your eye and lip liners removes the outer layer that may have come into contact with bacteria.
  • Pump, Don’t Touch: If you have a liquid product with a dropper, avoid touching the dropper directly to your skin. Dispense it onto the back of your clean hand first.

🗑️ The Great Purge: When It’s Absolutely Safe (and Necessary!) to Throw Away Expired Makeup

We know it’s hard to let go. But there are times when decluttering isn’t just for organization—it’s for your health. It is absolutely time to toss a product if:

  • It’s past its PAO or expiration date.
  • It has changed in color, smell, or texture.
  • The formula has separated.
  • You’ve had an eye or skin infection. This is crucial! If you used any makeup while you had an infection, you must throw it away to avoid re-infecting yourself.
  • It’s a mascara or liquid eyeliner older than 3-4 months.

Trust us, the peace of mind (and clear skin) is worth the cost of replacing that product.

♻️ Beyond the Bin: Creative & Responsible Ways to Dispose of or Repurpose Old Makeup

Okay, so you’ve done the purge. Now you have a pile of old products. Don’t just chuck it all in the trash! Let’s be a little more mindful.

1. Proper Disposal: Environmental Considerations

Before you toss anything, clean out the containers as best you can. Many components (glass jars, plastic tubes) can be recycled if they are clean and empty. Check your local recycling guidelines.

2. Upcycling & Repurposing (Non-Cosmetic Uses Only!)

Get creative with the packaging!

  • Eyeshadow Pigments: Scrape out old eyeshadows (that aren’t moldy!), crush them into a fine powder, and mix them with a clear medium to create custom nail polish or craft paint. NEVER put these on your face again.
  • Mascara Wands: Thoroughly wash and sanitize old mascara wands. They are fantastic for grooming eyebrows, taming flyaways, or even cleaning delicate items.
  • Beautiful Jars: Clean out pretty glass jars from creams or foundations and use them to store small items like hairpins or jewelry.

3. Recycling Programs: Brands Leading the Way

Many brands are stepping up to help with beauty waste.

  • Back-to-MAC: MAC Cosmetics has a long-standing program where you can return six empty primary packaging containers to a counter and receive a free lipstick.
  • Terracycle: This organization partners with brands like Garnier and Maybelline to offer free recycling programs for hard-to-recycle beauty packaging.
  • Donations (Unopened Only!): If you have unopened, unexpired makeup that you know you won’t use, consider donating it. Organizations like Beauty Banks and Project Beauty Share get these products to people in need.

💡 Myth Busting: Common Misconceptions About Makeup Expiry

Let’s clear up some common myths we hear all the time in the Beauty News.

  • Myth 1: “If it looks and smells fine, it’s safe to use.”
    • Reality: Not always. Bacteria are invisible! While using your senses is a good first step, it’s not foolproof. The PAO date is there for a reason—it’s based on stability testing for both the formula and the preservative system.
  • Myth 2: “Powder products last forever.”
    • Reality: They last a long time, but not forever. As Refinery29 notes, even powders should be discarded if they become dense, dark, or appear wet from oil transfer. Plus, bacteria can still be transferred from your brushes.
  • Myth 3: “Putting makeup in the fridge makes it last longer.”
    • Reality: This can actually ruin the texture of some products! Extreme temperature changes can cause emulsions in foundations and creams to break and separate. While some products (like eye creams or certain serums) can benefit from the cooling effect, it doesn’t extend their PAO.
  • Myth 4: “You can just add water or oil to a dried-out product.”
    • Reality: Please don’t do this! Adding water to a mascara tube, for example, just introduces more potential for bacterial growth and messes with the carefully balanced preservative formula. For other products, it will completely change the performance and texture.

💖 Our Personal Stories: When We Learned the Hard Way About Expired Makeup

Even the pros have to learn somehow! One of our estheticians, Chloe, has a story she’ll never forget.

“Years ago, before I was in the industry, I was obsessed with this limited edition cream eyeshadow. It was the perfect shimmery taupe. I used it for well over two years, long past its prime. I noticed it was getting a little harder to blend, but I ignored it. One morning, I woke up with my eyelid so swollen and red, it looked like I’d gone a round in a boxing ring. A trip to the doctor confirmed it: a nasty case of bacterial blepharitis. I had to throw out the eyeshadow, plus the mascara and eyeliner I’d used with it. It was a painful, puffy, and expensive lesson in respecting expiration dates!”

🧹 Decluttering & Organizing Your Makeup Stash: A Fresh Start for Longevity

Feeling overwhelmed? A good decluttering session can feel like therapy. It not only makes your collection safer but also helps you rediscover old favorites and streamline your routine.

  1. Take Everything Out: Dump your makeup bag, empty your drawers. You need to see everything you have.
  2. Group by Category: Put all your lipsticks together, all your foundations, etc. This helps you see where you have duplicates.
  3. Inspect and Purge: Go through each item one by one. Check the PAO symbol. Do the sniff and sight test. Be honest with yourself. If it’s old, toss it. If you haven’t used it in a year, you probably won’t.
  4. Clean and Sanitize: Wipe down all the products you’re keeping. Deep clean your brushes and sponges. Clean your makeup bag or storage drawers.
  5. Organize Intelligently: Use drawer dividers or acrylic organizers to keep everything visible and accessible. Consider a “first in, first out” system, keeping your newest products at the back.

🎯 Our Expert Recommendations: Confident Advice from Makeup Brands™

So, after all this, what’s our final word?

We confidently recommend that you respect the expiration dates and PAO symbols on your products. The potential risks of skin irritation, breakouts, and serious eye infections are simply not worth the satisfaction of using up a product to the last drop.

Think of your makeup collection not as a museum of past purchases, but as a working toolkit for your self-expression. Keep that toolkit clean, fresh, and safe. Your skin is your canvas—treat it with the best, and that includes knowing when to say goodbye. Being mindful of what you buy and using it within its safe period is the ultimate pro move. And if you’re looking for new, fresh products to love, check out our guide to the top 5 makeup products on the market right now.

Conclusion

woman in black crew neck shirt

After diving deep into the world of expired makeup, here’s the bottom line from your expert team at Makeup Brands™: Using expired makeup is a gamble with your skin’s health and your overall safety. While it might be tempting to cling to that beloved palette or foundation, the risks of bacterial contamination, skin irritation, and diminished product performance outweigh the benefits.

Remember Chloe’s story? That painful eye infection was a harsh reminder that even the most cherished products have an expiration date. The good news? You can enjoy your makeup safely by respecting PAO symbols, practicing good hygiene, and decluttering regularly.

So, can you use expired makeup? Technically yes, but should you? Absolutely not. Your skin deserves better than that!

If you’re ready to refresh your collection, check out our top 5 makeup products for fresh, safe, and fabulous options.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

Books for Further Reading:

  • “Milady Standard Cosmetology” – The definitive textbook for cosmetology professionals, covering product safety and skin health. Amazon Link
  • “The Beauty Aisle Insider” by Perry Romanowski – A cosmetic chemist’s guide to understanding makeup ingredients and safety. Amazon Link

FAQ

close view of woman's face with make up

What are the risks of using expired makeup products?

Using expired makeup can expose you to harmful bacteria, molds, and fungi that thrive once preservatives break down. This can lead to skin irritation, allergic reactions, acne breakouts, and serious eye infections like conjunctivitis or styes. Additionally, expired products may lose their effectiveness, meaning you won’t get the intended benefits or protection, especially with products like sunscreen or skincare serums.

Read more about “How to Choose the Right Makeup Brand for Your Skin Type in 2025 ✨”

How can I tell if my makeup has expired?

Look for the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol on the packaging—a small open jar icon with a number and “M” indicating months of safe use after opening. Also, trust your senses: if the product smells rancid, has changed color, texture, or separated, it’s time to toss it. For products with printed expiration dates (like sunscreens), never use past that date. Regularly inspecting your makeup and noting the opening date can prevent accidental use of expired items.

What is the shelf life of common makeup products?

Product Type Typical Shelf Life After Opening
Mascara & Liquid Eyeliner 3 months
Liquid/Cream Foundation & Concealer 6-12 months
Cream Blush & Eyeshadow 12-18 months
Lipstick & Lip Gloss 1-2 years
Powder Products (Blush, Bronzer, Eyeshadow) Up to 2 years
Skincare (Serums, Moisturizers) 6-12 months
Sunscreen Use before printed expiration date

Read more about “Top 16 Best Cosmetic Companies to Watch in 2025 ✨”

How should I properly dispose of old or expired cosmetics?

Dispose of expired makeup by first cleaning out containers to recycle where possible. Avoid flushing products down the drain or throwing them directly into the trash without preparation, as some ingredients can harm the environment. Consider participating in recycling programs like MAC’s Back-to-MAC or Terracycle’s beauty brigades. For unopened and unexpired products you won’t use, donating to organizations like Beauty Banks or Project Beauty Share is a great option.

How can I safely extend the life of my makeup products?

Maintain hygiene by washing hands before application, cleaning brushes weekly, and avoiding double-dipping into jars. Store products in cool, dry places away from humidity and sunlight. Use pump dispensers or spatulas to minimize contamination. Sharpen pencils regularly and replace sponges every 1-3 months. These practices help keep your makeup fresher and safer for longer.

Read more about “15 Must-Know Makeup Brands to Watch in 2025 💄”

Is it safe to share makeup products with others?

Sharing makeup, especially eye and lip products, is strongly discouraged. It increases the risk of transmitting infections such as pink eye or cold sores. Even if the product is new, bacteria and viruses can transfer between users. For hygiene and health, keep your makeup personal.

Read more about “How Do Luxury Makeup Brands Really Compare to Drugstore? 💄 (2025)”

We hope this comprehensive guide helps you make informed, safe, and savvy choices about your makeup stash. Remember: your skin is your best accessory—treat it with care! 💖

Review Team
Review Team

The Popular Brands Review Team is a collective of seasoned professionals boasting an extensive and varied portfolio in the field of product evaluation. Composed of experts with specialties across a myriad of industries, the team’s collective experience spans across numerous decades, allowing them a unique depth and breadth of understanding when it comes to reviewing different brands and products.

Leaders in their respective fields, the team's expertise ranges from technology and electronics to fashion, luxury goods, outdoor and sports equipment, and even food and beverages. Their years of dedication and acute understanding of their sectors have given them an uncanny ability to discern the most subtle nuances of product design, functionality, and overall quality.

Articles: 230

Related Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Trending now

Top 120 Cosmetic Companies in USA You Need to Know (2025) 💄
Top 15 Makeup Brands in the World You Need to Know (2025) 💄
Which Makeup Brand Is Best in US? Top 25 Picks for 2025 💄
Which Are the 17 Biggest Skincare Brands in the World? 🌍 (2025)