Shelf Life of Cosmetics Varies

According to the Food and Drug Administration, once opened, cosmetics can begin to go bad, growing bacteria and mold and becoming unsafe to use. Heres a guide from wellness author Dayle Haddon:

Liquid foundation                                 3-6 months

Cream foundation                               4-6 months

Concealer                                           2-8 months

Powders, pressed powder,

 eye shadow, blush                             1 year

Mascara                                              3 months

• Never keep mascara longer than one year (air pushes bacteria back into the tube). Never pump your mascara.

Lip gloss and lipstick                           1 year

Eye and lip pencils                              1 year

• You should sharpen pencils at least once a week to prevent bacteria from being transferred to your eye area.

Facial cleansers & moisturizers         6 months

Facial toners                                       1 year

Dianna Fuller, CMP CMM