What is the proper way of storing them so they will last longer? Keep them in a cool, dry place—your bedroom instead of your bathroom, for example, since when you take a bath the humidity won’t be good for your cosmetics.
Also, keep them away from direct sunlight or any place where the temperature changes, like your car.
You may want to store them in your refrigerator. Not only will it prolong the makeup’s shelf life, it also makes the makeup so refreshing to apply. Lastly, make sure you properly close the makeup tubes or containers so that dirt or bacteria won’t be able to enter.
I try to look for expiration dates when I shop for cosmetics, but some don’t have them. What should I do? It is good that you check for expiration dates. I’ve noticed that European brands do have expiration dates, something not all cosmetics companies follow. Here’s a rough guide on the shelf life of most cosmetics:
Anti-aging and acne treatments: 3 months to a year.
Bath oil: 1 year
Blush: 1 year
Body lotion: 2 – 3 years
Concealer: up to 12 months
Deodorant: up to 2 years
Eye pencils: up to 3 years
Eye shadow: 3 years
Facial toner: 1 year, may last less if it contains Vitamin C
Foundation: A water-based foundation will last for up to 12 months, an oil-based one up to 18 months.
Hairstyling products: 3 – 5 years
Lip balm: 1 -2 years
Lip pencils: up to 3 years
Lipstick/lip gloss: 2 -3 years
Mascara and liquid eyeliner: 3 – 4 months
Moisturizers and facial cleansers: about 6 months, unless they contain acids like glycolic acid, salicylic acid and beta hydroxyl acid, which make them last longer
Nail polish: 1 year
Perfume: 2 – 3 years
Powder: 2 years
Sunscreen: 2 years
Ria Francisco-Prieto
