Does Eyeshadow Expire? Facts to Know

Eyeshadow is a crucial component of your daily makeup routine if you’re anything like me. But does eyeshadow expire?

Generally—depending on what kind it is—make-up is made to last somewhere between two to three years.

If you want to learn when to throw out your beloved palette, keep reading.

Does Eyeshadow Expire?

Yes, your eyeshadow does expire, so you need to keep an eye on it.

In most cases, eyeshadow will remain usable for about two years before needing replacement. Depending on the product’s type and usage frequency, this time frame may change.

However, eyeshadow, particularly powdered eyeshadow, has a much longer shelf life and typically lasts for two to three years.

When it comes to cream or water-based eyeshadow, however, this time frame is slightly shortened. Some of these items, such as cream eyeshadow, contain oils that over time can break down and render the item unusable.

Even a powdered eyeshadow palette isn’t advised to be used after three years because all makeup contains preservatives that eventually break down.

Related Reading: Can You Use Eyeshadow as Lipstick?

What is the Shelf Life of Eyeshadow?

Unopened eyeshadows can last anywhere from two to three years if stored properly.

Once opened, however, powder shadows may begin to degrade after six months and should be replaced within one year for optimal results.

In general, eyeshadows made solely of mineral pigments last longer than those that also include synthetic dyes or other ingredients.

Read More: How Long Do Lipstick Last?

How to Tell If Eyeshadow is Expired?

Smell: The first tell-tale sign of an expired product is the smell. If the product smells bad or just off in any way, it’s likely expired and should not be used on your face.

Color: Another way to identify expired makeup is to look closely at the color. If your foundation has turned orange, then it’s likely oxidized. And you can be sure that your vivid purple eyeshadow has gone bad if it has changed to a boring shade of beige.

Texture: Is the eyeshadow on your eyes crumbly? Is your pressed foundation as solid as a rock? Does your foundation appear clumpy and broken up? It’s time to throw away your makeup if you notice that the consistency has changed.

When to Throw Out An Eyeshadow Palette?

Even though I’m sure it’s not at the top of your list of things to do, getting rid of makeup is necessary.

You should throw out an eyeshadow palette whenever it has reached its expiration date. Again, it’s crucial to keep track of when you first opened your eyeshadow so that you can use the PAO to properly dispose of it at the appropriate time.

Many physical changes will also let you know when it’s time to throw away your eyeshadow.

If cream eyeshadows become dry and crumbly, they should be discarded. Never rehydrate them with saliva or water as this will only encourage the growth of bacteria.

For any kind of eyeshadow, if there are changes in texture, hardness, color, or smell, then it is time to throw it out.

You should also pay attention to the appearance of your eyeshadow.

What Happens If I Use Expired Eyeshadow?

Applying expired eyeshadow can actually allow the introduction of this bacteria and mold into your eyes.

You may experience severe eye irritation and infections as a result of this. Bacteria and mold can irritate, itch, or cause breakouts on the skin near your eyes.

How to Properly Store Eyeshadow for a Longer Shelf Life?

Eyeshadow can be a tricky product to store. As with any beauty product, eyeshadow needs to be stored properly to have the longest possible shelf life and remain effective.

The initial step is to locate a suitable storage container. Your collection of eyeshadows will be kept well-organized and shielded from dust and moisture in a shallow plastic or cardboard box with a lid that fits.

Pro tip: When you’ve discovered the ideal container, be sure to put all of the eyeshadows inside and to keep the lid tightly closed when not in use.

When everything has been arranged, put your newly cleaned-up box somewhere cool, out of the way of direct heat or sunlight (like a drawer). Verify that there are no nearby sources of moisture or water.

Additionally, it’s critical to keep them clean because any oils on eyeshadow’s surface can encourage bacterial growth, which drastically shortens the product’s lifespan.

In order to avoid microorganisms like mold or mildew from growing inside the product and eroding its quality over time, it is also a good idea to make sure your hands (or brushes) are clean of bacteria before applying it.

Pro tip: I advise you to regularly wash your makeup brushes in soapy water and store all of your makeup products away from any sources of dust or other potential contaminants to prevent issues of this nature.

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Final Words: Does Eyeshadow Expire

Most eyeshadows have a shelf life of around 2–3 years, but this can vary depending on the brand and formulation.

It’s best to throw away your eyeshadow and buy a new one if it has expired or looks and smells different than when you first opened it.

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