Dan's Papers - July 13, 2007

I have boxes and bags full of make-up and beauty products that I love and that I'm sure I'll use - well, one of these days. Or I simply have make-up I can't bring myself to toss out, like that blue eye shadow that I used once upon a time, or purple mascara that a friend talked me into buying. But as a beauty writer, I should know better, because make-up actually expires, as do other beauty products, such as moisturizers. In order to avoid infection - yes, I said infection - pay attention to how old the items in your make-up bag are. In fact, most make-up actually contains bacteria before you even open it. Then, when the product is open to the air the bacteria grows, and the chance of infection increases with time. Bacteria in products commonly cause eye infections and breakouts, among other unpleasant issues. Keep in mind the importance of storing make-up in a dry, cool place. This is especially important in the hot summer months that wreak havoc with make-up.

It's not mandatory for make-up companies to put expiration dates on their products, though many do. The side of the package might say 6, 24, 18 m, indicating the number of months it should be kept. Many beauty "experts" vary slightly on their view of how long things should be kept, so the information below is a general rule of thumb. One should additionally note that the life of a product could also change if, for example, the product hasn't been stored properly. For example, if a lipstick has melted in the sun, throw it out -even if it's brand new. Also, don't share make-up, with a friend, and wash your face and hands before touching any product or applying to the face. Be sure to keep your tools cleaned. Wash make-up brushes with mild soap or baby shampoo about once a month and sponges after every use, but dispose of them every month. Keep the lids on your products when not in use, too. If your make-up either changes color, texture or develops an unfamiliar odor, immediately throw it away. There are preservatives in make-up, but they lose their effectiveness over time.

Here's a list of some very familiar products and their general lifespan.

Mascara is one of the worst offenders of bacteria and make-up causes of eye infections. It's also agreed upon to be the make-up product with the shortest shelf life at about only 3-6 months. Buy new mascara every few months.

Pencils such as eyeliners and lip-liners generally last for about one to two years, but to prolong their usage, sharpen them to get rid of any bacteria (even up to once a week), and you can also wipe them with antibacterial solution. If they crumple or dry out, they've gone bad, so sharpen and see if you can revive them.

Powder blushes and eye shadows can last from one to three years. However, if your powder is looking a little worse for wear, try scuffing up the top layer and them scraping it off to reveal fresh new product beneath.

Concealers last up to about one year, but if they dry out, try mixing them with moisturizer and use as liquid foundation.

Foundation varies upon type, as liquids and creams tend to separate or change texture, so they often only last up to eight months. Solid foundation lasts about one to two years. Either way, if foundation develops an unpleasant smell, toss it immediately.

Lipstick and lip gloss last for one to two years. A great tip is to keep lipsticks in the refrigerator, especially at this time of year so that they don't melt.

Perfume lasts from two to three years, but just like lipstick, the best way to keep you smelling sweeter longer is to keep them in the refrigerator.

Moisturizers and cleansers last from about three months to a year, and these are products that often do have expiration dates on them. So pay attention.