Cosmetic expiration dates often go unnoticed. In fact, using cosmetics that have passed the expiration date can cause problems on the skin, even though the cosmetics look still worth using.
Not only food, cosmetics also have an expiration date printed on the packaging. However, due to the reason that it has only been worn a little and generally lasts a long time, many women often do not pay attention to the expiration date of the cosmetic products they use.
In fact, if it has passed the expiration date, the beauty product is no longer safe to use.
Dangers of Expired Cosmetics
In addition to the effects that are no longer optimal, the use of expired cosmetics is also not good for skin health.
Cosmetics that have expired generally contain a lot of bacteria and fungi that can cause various health problems, such as:
- Pimple
- skin rash
- Skin and eye infections
- Stye
Therefore, do not use cosmetic products that have passed their expiration date, especially products that are used in the eyes, because they can pose a danger to the sensitive eye area.
Some Things Can Damage Cosmetics
In addition to the cosmetic expiration date that has passed, there are several factors that can make cosmetics easily damaged, including:
The seal has been opened
Cosmetics that are still well sealed and stored at room temperature can last for several years.
However, once the product seal is opened and cosmetics are exposed to outside air, the ingredients or ingredients in cosmetics can undergo an oxidation process so that their quality will decrease over time.
Bad storage location
If stored in a hot and humid place, such as a bathroom, cosmetic products can be a breeding ground for mold and yeast. Therefore, store cosmetics in a cool, dry place, and not exposed to direct sunlight.
Bacterial contamination through hands
Touching cosmetics or dipping your fingers directly into cosmetic products can allow microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, and yeast, to pass from your hands to the cosmetics.
Therefore, it is recommended that you always wash your hands before using the various types of cosmetics you have.
The Right Time to Throw Your Cosmetics
Not all cosmetics include an expiration date. The following is a guide to determine whether cosmetic products are still suitable for use or not:
1. Mascara
These cosmetic products should be discarded after 4–6 months of use or when they start to smell and clump. If stored for too long, these cosmetics can cause eye infections, such as stye or conjunctivitis, when used.
So that bacteria do not enter the mascara tube, close it tightly after use and avoid playing with mascara sticks. Also, throw away the dried mascara immediately and don't add plain water to the mascara tube to thin it out.
2. Lipstick
Change lipstick every 6–8 months or when it is sticky, smells, and no longer sticks to your lips. Lipstick is easily exposed to bacteria because it comes into direct contact with lips that contain a lot of bacteria.
3. eyeliner
Change immediately eyeliner liquid when the packaging has been opened 6 months ago, while eyeliner in pencil form can continue to be used if sharpened and cleaned with alcohol wipes regularly to keep it from drying out.
4. Foundation
Foundation Liquid and cream form can last up to about 1 year, if kept away from hot air and direct sunlight. However, you still need to replace foundation when this cosmetic product starts to thicken, clump, or smell.
5. Concealer
Average expiration date concealer is 1 year, if tightly closed. If you use stick concealer, throw it away immediately if it is damaged or broken. Meanwhile, liquid concealer cannot be used if it smells and looks greasy.
6. blush and eye shadow
blush and eye shadow The cream form can last up to 1 year, while the solid form is about 2 years. However, if blush and eye shadow solids begin to spoil before 2 years, discard the product immediately.
Likewise with eye shadow and blush in cream form. You should no longer use this product if it has thickened and smells.
To extend the shelf life of this cosmetic product, it is recommended that you tighten the cover, keep the product away from heat and direct sunlight, and store it in a dry place.
7. Powder
Powder generally can be used up to 2 years. Fungi and bacteria do not grow in cosmetic products with low water content. However, if the powder contains SPF, replace it immediately after 6 months of use or if it smells.
Tips for Using Cosmetics
The following are some tips that you can follow when using any type of cosmetic product:
- Read labels, follow directions for use, and heed all warnings on cosmetic packaging, including when buying make up share in a jar
- Wash your hands before using cosmetics
- Avoid sharing cosmetics with others
- Keep cosmetic containers clean, keep containers tightly closed when not in use, and keep containers away from extreme temperatures
- Throw away cosmetics that have changed color, texture, or smell
- Using cosmetic spray or aerosol in a well-ventilated room
If stored properly and properly, cosmetics can be safely used until their expiration date. However, you need to pay attention to the expiration date of cosmetics when you want to use them, to prevent skin problems.
If you experience symptoms of skin irritation, itchy and swollen skin, redness, or itchy and swollen eyes after using certain cosmetic products, immediately consult a doctor for treatment.
