Mascara Shelf Life
Mascara is an essential part of every makeup lover's kit. It is used to enhance the lashes and provide volume and length to make the eyes look more attractive. However, like all other things, mascara has a shelf life.
Typically, mascara has a shelf life of three to six months after the opening of the product. Beyond this time, the product starts to dry out, become clumpy, and lose its effectiveness. The shelf life of mascara depends on several factors, such as the ingredients, the packaging, and the individual's use.
The ingredients of mascara play a crucial role in determining its shelf life. Products that have natural ingredients tend to have a shorter shelf life than those that have synthetic materials. The packaging also plays a vital role in the shelf life of the mascara. Mascara that comes in an airtight bottle or tube tends to last longer than those in open containers.
Another factor that plays a considerable role in the shelf life of mascara is the individual’s use. If the mascara wand comes into contact with the eyelashes or any other part of the skin, it can cause the spread of bacteria that can contaminate the product. This contamination can cause the product to expire more quickly than expected.
- So, it is essential to keep these factors in mind when purchasing mascara, and be sure to check the expiration date of the product before use.
Signs of Expired Mascara
Mascara is not an inexpensive product. Hence, everyone wants to make the most of it. No one wants to throw away a tube of mascara that still has some product left in it. However, using expired mascara can lead to various issues for your eyes, such as eye infections, dryness, and itchiness.
Here are some signs that the mascara has expired and that you should avoid using it:
- Clumping – If the mascara has started to clump, it's an indication that the product has started to dry out and has lost its effectiveness.
- Dryness – If the mascara has become dry, it's an indication that it has expired.
- Bad smell – If the mascara has a bad smell, it is a sign that it is contaminated and has expired.
- Discoloration – If the color of the mascara has started to change, it's an indication that the product has been exposed to air, light, or heat, and has started to break down, losing its effectiveness.
It's essential to keep in mind that using expired mascara can cause eye infections like conjunctivitis and styes. These conditions can be painful and can even lead to vision loss if left untreated. Hence, it is essential to know the signs of expired mascara and avoid using them.
Risks of Using Expired Mascara
Using expired mascara can cause various risks to the eyes. Here are some of the risks involved in using expired mascara:
- Eye infection – Using expired mascara can lead to the spread of bacteria that can cause eye infections. These infections can cause dryness, itchiness, and even loss of vision if left untreated.
- Redness – Expired mascara can cause redness and irritation to the eyes. This condition can be painful and uncomfortable.
- Allergic reactions – Expired mascara can cause allergic reactions to the eyes, leading to more severe conditions that may need medical attention.
- Bacterial growth – Expired mascara can cause the growth of bacteria that can spread onto the eyelashes and other parts of the face. This bacterial growth can cause pimples, blackheads, and other skin problems.
In conclusion, mascara has a shelf life of three to six months after opening. The shelf life depends on several factors, including the ingredients, packaging, and individual's use. Signs of expired mascara include clumping, dryness, bad smell, and discoloration. Using expired mascara can cause various risks, including eye infections, redness, allergic reactions, and bacterial growth. Hence, it is essential to know the signs of expired mascara and avoid using them.
How to store mascara properly
Mascara is a must-have in every woman's makeup bag. However, did you know that mascara can expire? One of the main things that cause mascara to expire is improper storage.
- First and foremost, do not share your mascara with anyone else. Sharing mascara can introduce bacteria, which can cause it to expire more quickly.
- Make sure to keep your mascara away from any direct sunlight or heat sources, as these can cause it to dry out and expire more quickly.
- Store your mascara in a cool, dry place, such as a drawer or a makeup bag. Avoid keeping it in humid areas such as a bathroom, as this can cause it to spoil faster.
- When applying mascara, make sure to avoid pumping the wand in and out of the tube. This can force air into the tube, causing it to dry out more quickly. Instead, twist the wand inside the tube to get the product onto the wand.
Mascara ingredients that degrade over time
Like all makeup products, mascara contains ingredients that can degrade over time, causing it to spoil faster. Here are some of the most common mascara ingredients that degrade over time:
- Water: Mascara contains water as a key ingredient, which can evaporate over time, causing it to dry out.
- Pigments: The pigments in mascara can also degrade over time, causing the color to fade or change. This can also cause the mascara to become clumpy.
- Binders: The binders in mascara hold the product together and keep it from flaking or smudging. However, over time, these binders can break down, causing the mascara to become clumpy or flaky.
- Preservatives: Mascara contains preservatives to prevent the growth of bacteria and fungi. However, these preservatives can also break down over time, reducing their effectiveness and causing the mascara to expire more quickly.
- Fragrance: Some mascaras contain fragrance, which can also degrade over time, causing the scent to change or become unpleasant.
When to toss mascara
Now that you know how to properly store your mascara and which ingredients can degrade over time, it's important to know when to toss your mascara and get a new one.
- The general rule of thumb is to replace your mascara every 3 to 6 months. This is because at this point, bacteria and fungi can start to grow inside the tube, potentially causing eye infections or other health issues.
- If your mascara starts to smell unusual or has a strange texture, it's definitely time to throw it away. This is a clear sign that it has expired and is no longer safe to use.
- If you've been sick or had an eye infection, it's important to replace your mascara as soon as possible. Bacteria and fungi can easily spread from your eyes to your mascara, which can then infect your eyes again if you continue to use it.
- If you notice any redness, swelling, or other signs of irritation after using mascara, stop using it immediately and throw it away. It's not worth risking eye infections or other health problems.
Extending the life of your mascara
While it's important to replace your mascara every few months, there are also some things you can do to extend its life and get the most out of each tube.
- Never dilute your mascara with water or any other liquid. While this may seem like a good way to make your mascara last longer, it can actually introduce bacteria and cause it to spoil more quickly.
- Use a clean wand or brush every time you apply your mascara. This can help prevent the build-up of bacteria on the wand, which can then be transferred into the tube.
- If you accidentally drop your mascara or expose it to extreme temperatures, it's best to toss it and get a new one. While it may seem like a waste, it's not worth risking your health.
- Finally, make sure to remove your mascara at the end of the day. Leaving it on overnight can cause it to dry out and become clumpy, which can then introduce bacteria and cause it to spoil more quickly.
