Jan. 06, 2025
Beauty & Personal Care
Makeup can last anywhere between a few months to three years, so it's important to know which products last long and which don't. We explain how to do that in this blog post, so keep reading!
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The regulations regarding testing for cosmetic products vary by location. If your company is based in Europe or sells to Europe, like SAPPHO, your products undergo a lengthy and costly testing process to ensure that they meet all safety standards. SAPPHO goes beyond EU requirements by also testing for PFAS and organic fluorine.
In the US, to obtain FDA approval for a cosmetic product, formulators must provide evidence of product safety through scientific testing. This usually includes several tests for full products (given that all relevant ingredient tests have been completed).
If no medical claims are made, some of the required tests may include:
Ingredient Safety Assessment: An evaluation of each ingredient to ensure safety for skin application.
Microbial Testing: A test to check for any harmful bacteria or microorganisms in the product.
Stability Testing: A test that determines how the product will change over time, including its appearance, odor, and texture.
Package Integrity Testing: A test that ensures packaging protects the product from contamination.
Specific testing requirements depend on the type of cosmetic product and its intended use. It's also essential to note that while the FDA does not formally approve cosmetic products, it does regulate their safety and labeling.
The longevity of your makeup products varies by type. Generally, liquid and cream products have shorter life expectancies, while powder and mineral-based products tend to last longer.
Regardless of the timeline, it's crucial to replace personal care items when they reach their expiration dates to avoid infection or irritation.
Makeup, skincare, and hair products can all expire, but how do you determine when a product is past its prime?
Check the Store Expiration Date and the Open Dating System.
Cosmetics often have an expiration date stamped on the bottom or side of the packaging, known as the Store Expiration Date. This indicates how long the product is safe to use, regardless of its opened or unopened status. This date is determined through stability testing, and sometimes it correlates with a lot number that can be referenced for clarity.
Additionally, many cosmetics have a symbol indicating the Open Dating System. This includes small numbers showing how long a product is safe and efficient after being opened for the first time (indicated by a small jar icon). Pay attention to these numbers to know when to replace makeup products that have expired.
There are two ways expiry dates are communicated:
Shelf life: Indicates how long a product is safe for use before opening, usually stamped on the jar, bottle, or tube.
Open jar icon (PAO): Indicates the product's safety period post-opening. For example, 12M means it is good for 12 months after opening. A useful tip is to note the opening date with a permanent pen.
A general guideline for estimated product longevity is as follows:
Foundation: 1-3 years
Eyeshadow: 2 years
Lip products: 1-2 years
Blush: 1-2 years
Powder: 1-2 years
Concealer: 1-2 years
Mascara/Eyeliner: 1-6 months
When it comes to your SAPPHO products, here are our general guidelines.
PRODUCT | SHELF LIFE | PERIOD AFTER OPENING
Be vigilant for any signs of contamination.
Spotting personal care products that have gone bad can be challenging. Signs of contamination in cosmetics include changes in color, smell, and texture. Such changes can occur quickly, so it’s essential to examine any makeup product carefully before using it. If there are noticeable changes or if the product emits a sour smell, discard it, recycle if possible, and purchase a new one.
Signs of contamination include discoloration, altered consistency, or an offensive smell that persists after application. If any of these issues arise, do not apply the product and replace it to ensure you are using safe and effective makeup.
Discarding old cosmetics is crucial not only for optimal makeup application but also for maintaining health and hygiene. Expired cosmetics can encourage bacterial growth, posing a risk of infection if contaminants enter the bloodstream through small skin openings or via the eyes and mouth. When in doubt, discard and recycle responsibly, and replace without delay.
European Union certification for cosmetics assures consumers and businesses that products have undergone rigorous safety and quality testing.
EU certified products must comply with the highest safety and quality standards. The certification process ensures all ingredients meet EU regulations, restricting toxic substances' inclusion in certified products. This guarantees that these items have often been tested for efficacy, enabling consumers to trust the product claims.
SAPPHO's foundation, mascara, and concealer are all EU certified.
Additionally, these products have been tested for PFAS, yielding results of undetected <10 ppm organic fluorine.
Cleanliness is paramount!
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Similar to medications in your cabinet, cosmetic products also have expiration dates. How do you know when your makeup has gone bad? For instance, when mascara crumbles, brushes deteriorate, or lipstick fails to stick to your lips, it’s time to dispose of them. Learn more with Health's guide about what to keep and when to toss and replace.
Average life span: four to six months
Though the average life span of mascara is four to six months, it's advisable to discard it sooner per manufacturer recommendations, which may suggest disposal as early as two to four months after purchase. If it develops a burning plastic odor and becomes clumpy, it’s time for a new tube.
Efficient service is available at Doriff.
Handle eye products carefully; germ-laden formulas can cause infections. Always close the mascara tightly after use, refrain from pumping the wand, and never share your mascara.
Average life span: one year
If the pencil liner tip oozes an oily substance or shows a white film, dispose of it immediately. For liquid liners, limit use to no more than six months, and discard them if they thicken or develop an unpleasant smell.
To maintain liquid liners, keep in mind that the applicator tip is a breeding ground for bacteria, so only sharpening pencil liners can help eliminate some germs.
Average life span: one year
Most liquid, cream, and compact foundations can last up to a year if stored correctly. If your liquid separates, cream thickens, or compact color begins to smell like rubber, it’s time to let go.
To extend its life, use a cotton swab for dipping, and regularly wash the puff or sponge if using a compact.
Average life span: one year
Pan or stick formulations go bad when they crack or become tough and elastic in texture. Liquid concealers should be thrown out if they separate, look oily, or smell rancid.
Keep hands out of the container and ensure it’s tightly sealed to prolong its lifespan.
Average life span: one to two years
Creams last about a year, while powders can last up to two. Discard any powder that develops white crust or crumbles prematurely. Creams will thicken and may emit a strange odor when they spoil.
Use cotton swabs, tighten lids, and store products away from heat and sunlight to preserve them. Avoid humid environments-like bathrooms-which can alter texture.
Average life span: eight months
Unless lipstick becomes gooey, has a rubbery smell, or fails to apply properly, it can be used for at least eight months. However, if it comes into contact with an infection such as a cold sore, dispose of it.
Average life span: one year or longer, depending on the type
Natural hair brushes used for powdered products can last a long time with proper care. Clean them weekly with gentle soap and warm water, drying them with the brush end hanging off a table edge.
Synthetic brushes used for creams typically last about a year and should be cleaned at least twice a week. Discard them if they shed, become stiff, or fail to apply color evenly.
Average life span: three to five years
Depending on their ingredients, fragrances can last a long time. However, an expired perfume may smell worse or lose its scent quality. Sometimes, the color may also change as it ages.
Average life span: two to three years
Nail polish generally has a long shelf life. If it becomes thick, dried, or separates, consider replacing it.
To avoid early drying, store nail polish with the lid tightly closed and in an area shielded from direct sunlight.
Some cosmetic products, like mascaras, may only last a few months, while others, such as fragrances, can last for years. It's crucial to monitor for signs of expiration, such as changes in appearance, consistency, or smell. When you notice these indicators, it's best to dispose of the old products and opt for replacements.
Contact us to discuss your requirements for Eye Cosmetics. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
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