Did you know that some types of makeup can expire faster than normal if they are stored or handled incorrectly?
When you open your bathroom cabinet you may discover makeup that is well beyond its expiration date.
So it's up to you to decide when it's time to toss your beauty and cosmetic products but it is really important that you know how to avoid makeup contamination.
Sharing makeup can spread diseases
A pampering session with friends can seem like fun at the time but catching an eye infection is not. This is why you should avoid using product testers in shops at all cost. They are also easily transferred when getting a makeup consultation or quick makeover in a department store.
Cosmetics cause eye infections in a large number of women each year. According to the FDA, eye cosmetics have temporarily or permanently blinded women in rare situations.
Bacteria can be found on the lashes naturally. According to specialists, a cosmetic brush becomes infected as soon as it is used on an eyelash or eyelid.
The contaminated brush causes bacteria to build up in the cosmetics container over time. With each use of the product, the risk of an eye infection or allergic response increases.
Pink eye, also known as conjunctivitis is a particularly pesky result of sharing eye makeup. This infection is highly contagious, easily spreads among people sharing the same makeup and can last for up to two weeks.
If you’ve never had conjunctivitis before, the lining of the eyelid results in red, itchy, watery eyes and you won't be able to wear eye makeup or contact lenses in the meantime.
Eyes are one of the areas of the body that are most susceptible to disease you should be paying close attention to how long you've had your current mascara.
Because you dip the mascara in the closed container, use it on your eyes and place it back into the tube, it creates a dark environment that allows germs to thrive.
Most manufacturers suggest replacing mascara just after the three-month mark. But if it smells odd, has become dry or has been exposed to drastic temperature changes - if you keep a spare one in your car for example - you might want to toss it sooner than that.
And if you've had a recent eye infection, no matter how long or little you've had it -- you should replace all of your eye makeup. One of the most common makeup injuries is scratching the eye with a mascara wand.
To avoid this, never apply mascara while driving – even as a passenger. If untreated, a scratch can become infected.
Other cosmetic products that contain water are also breeding grounds for bacteria and should be replaced on a regular basis.
Always avoid dipping your fingers in a jar and after six months, get rid of liquid foundation, creamy-formula eye shadow and blush. Like mascara, after three months, discard liquid eyeliner.
Powder-based products, which contain little to no water may have a longer shelf life but this doesn't mean that every type of makeup will necessarily last this long. If a cosmetic changes colour or starts to smell, throw it out right away.
You might also enjoy our other article about makeup > The Health Threats Hiding in Your Makeup Bag