Oh, the dreaded spring-cleaning. I don’t mean scrubbing down your kitchen floor or dusting out those impossible to reach shelves in your living room, I’m talking beauty products. Yes ladies, just like food they perish. And just like fuzzy arugula is probably not so good for your body, outdated lipstick, sunscreen and perfume can be as gnarly, too.
Here is a basic guide of how long your beauty favorites hold up. Happy cleaning!
Nail Polish: 1 year (give or take a bit) before it starts turning to thick, nasty goop. A manicurist just told me you could extend this by about six months if you store polish in the refrigerator. Cool, right?
Makeup (blush, bronzer, lipstick, eye shadow, etc.): One to two years, but be warier of eye products. Celebrity makeup-artist Sonia Kashuk recommends tossing anything eye related after six months because they can cause infection.
Mascara: Three to six months. When in doubt, toss it. Not only does old mascara look clumpy, it harbors lots of bacteria.
Self-tanner: One year. Most self-tanners now come with on-package expiration dates but if you’re blind like me you have a hard time deciphering those tiny numbers. Old self-tanner won’t hurt you, but it may look awful when applied. Test a dab on your stomach or leg if you are unsure.
Sunscreen: One to three years. This is actually longer than expected and comes from the trusted Mayo Clinic. They did stress to always read the bottle because expiration dates vary from brand to brand. When in doubt, throw it out. Sunburns are serious business.
Hairspray: Three years. This is one has endurance. Some sources even claim it lasts up to 5 years. Bottom line, when the nozzle is clogged, it’s time for a new one.
Shampoo and Conditioner: Two years. Shampoo and conditioner also do not technically expire but let’s be realistic, there is probably a good reason why it has been in a drawer for two years.
Perfume: Three years. This is a little bit rough. Perfumes with essential oils, a.k.a. those of higher quality will last longer while cheaper potions will go bad faster. It is usually pretty easy to tell once they’ve gone rouge. If it smells like crap, it’s time for a new bottle.
Teeth whitening strips: One year. Hydrogen peroxide does expire and once it does those strips won’t do your yellow teeth any good. Don’t wait to use those up!
