Does Lipstick Expire?

Does My Lipstick Expire?

Here’s What You Need To Know

Have you ever wondered if lipstick expires? Do you have a lipstick or two that you’ve been using for quite a while? If a tube has been in your purse or drawer for months or years, is it still safe to use? How do I know when it’s time to throw out my lip color? Here’s the scoop.

Lipstick does expire. A lip product’s expiration date depends on the ingredients used. Normally, lipsticks contain waxes, oils, and pigments which all have varying shelf lives. They also have some type of preservatives like parabens or Potassium sorbate which fight mold and bacteria. Naturally, a lipstick with fewer preservatives will not last as long. Bullet lipsticks last longer than lip gloss and liquid lipstick.

As a general rule, you can use a lipstick for a year. If you have one that’s older than that, it’s a good idea to go ahead and buy a fresh replacement.

If you have a lip gloss or liquid lipstick that starts to get really sticky, dry out, smell different, or the color has changed, toss it. All of these are signs that’s it most likely expired and needs to go.

What’s the big deal about using expired lipstick? The Mayo Clinic has stated that expired lip products can contain bacteria which may cause breakouts, bacterial infections, skin irritation. rashes, cold sores, redness, itching, or inflammation!!

So remember to regularly inspect your lipsticks. If they’ve become chunky instead of creamy, dry instead of moisturizing, and have lost their original color, these are good indicators that they’re ready to be retired.

To wrap up, lipstick does expire. If it’s over a year old, smells funny, looks different, feels different, and goes on differently, pitch it. Better safe than sorry.