Powders and wax products, such as eyeshadows and lipsticks, usually have expiration dates that are between 12 months and 24 months. But you can treat these dates as guidelines, rather than as strict deadlines, since these products are relatively shelf-stable.
Powder products may become harder, or the color may become less vibrant, said Elizabeth Chon, VP of product development at AS Beauty Group. But since bacteria need water to thrive, that eyeshadow palette you’ve had in your drawer for three years doesn’t carry much risk, even after it has expired, Sharma said.
And Sharma said that waxy products, including lipsticks, are more likely to get grainy, dry, or smelly (gross!) before they become an actual bacterial hazard. They may crystallize or lose color when the wax eventually oxidizes. But you’ll probably toss your favorite scarlet-red lipstick because it feels like sandpaper — not because you’re afraid it will give you an infection.
The lip-product side of this lip-and-cheek palette has clearly started to crystallize — a sign that it’s oxidized and not really usable anymore. Neha Tandon/NYT Wirecutter
If you’re staring at a pile of half-used, unmarked tubes, and you don’t know where to start, use your nose. According to Bashir, when liquids, creams, and balms start smelling like old crayons or vinegar, it’s a definitive sign that their preservatives have ghosted you, and you should toss those products. Be ruthless with any products that touch the waterline of your eyes, like mascaras and eyeliners. For everything else, if something changes tint or texture, or if it causes a tingle, into the trash it must go.
This article was edited by Hannah Rimm and Maxine Builder.
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