Cosmetics Shelf-Life Chart

From: marthastewart.com © 2006 MARTHA STEWART LIVING OMNIMEDIA

Cosmetics Shelf-life Chart

Taking inventory of cosmetics can free up storage space and more important, offers a reminder to replace those that are past their prime.

MOISTURIZER

6 to 12 months

Choose tubes or pumps, which help prevent contamination from microorganisms. Keep cap closed tightly.

TONER

6 to 12 months

Look for cloudiness or a foul odor.

CLEANSER

6 to 12 months

Never share eye products. Look for tubes instead of jars. Apply above eyelid, not on eyelid itself.

EXFOLIANTS

6 to 12 months

Keep cap closed tightly to prevent water from entering in the shower. Oil-based scrubs (like many of the sea-salt ones) last longer than water-based formulas

EYE CREAM

6 to 12 months

Don't leave in the car; it can go rancid if exposed to heat and air for prolonged periods.

LIP BALM

1 to 2 years

Don't leave in the car; it can go rancid if exposed to heat and air for prolonged periods.

SHAMPOO

6 to 12 months

Store above shower head so water doesn't get in. If it changes in smell or appearance, throw it out.

CONDITIONER

6 to 12 months

As with shampoo, watch for changes in consistency and odor.

STYLING PRODUCTS

1 year or more

High-alcohol (20 percent or more) gels and hairspray can last many years. Close caps and lids tightly to prevent formula from drying out. Keep jar lids tightly closed to prevent contents from drying out; always clean hands before using. If product separates, becomes liquidy, or smells strange, throw it away.

NAIL POLISH

1 year

Keep caps on tightly; store at room temperature. Don't add remover to bottle to thin.

FOUNDATION AND CONCEALER

6 months

Use sponges or brushes (not fingers) when applying so you don't contaminate with microorganisms from your skin.

EYE AND LIP PENCILS

3 to 6 months for eyes6 to 12 months for lips

Sharpen pencil before each use to clean surface. Discard if rancid odor develops.

LIPSTICK

2 to 3 years

To prevent rancidity, store at room temperature and not in the car or refrigerator. (Beading does not indicate rancidity; it's merely oils escaping from the formula.)

MASCARA

3 to 6 months

Keep cap on tightly to prevent drying out. Never put wand down on counter or tabletop. Don't add water if it gets thick.

POWDERS (FACE, BLUSH, OR EYE)

3 to 6 months for eyes, 6 to 12 months for others

Wash applicators monthly; use water (not saliva) if you use wet powder. Dry before storing. Don't store products in the sun.

APPLICATORS (BRUSHES, SPONGES)

3 to 6 months or longer

Wash sponges used for liquid makeup with soap and water; dry. Replace those used with powders every few months. Cleaned regularly, brushes can last for years; use mild soap and a little water (do not immerse).

FRAGRANCE

3 years or longer

Reduce headspace in bottle to preserve scent (that is, if you've used half, pour what remains into a smaller bottle);

SUNSCREEN

If it separates or doesn't spread well, replace it. At the beach, keep in a beach bag, out of direct sunlight.

SELF-TANNER

3 to 6 months

Don't stock up. The self-tanning ingredient, dihydroxyacetone, oxidizes within a few months, turns brown, and can take on an unpleasant odor.