We have all done it used expired makeup. After spending some major moolah on a designer or high-end product it is difficult to throw it away even when you know its past its prime. Most people myself included have had products in their makeup bags that are years or even decades old. Sure it may look perfectly fine and you think what could be the harm right? Sadly science and research has shown that there are a lot of dangers lurking in your old expired makeup.
So let’s look at what they are. Well, the antibacterial agents in makeup start to break down after about six months making it a petri dish for bacteria, especially in older products.
Over 50% of samples tested from old makeup contained bacteria such as staphylococcus. Although staph is commonly found on the skin an overgrowth can be harmful and eye and skin infections. Another bacterium found in expired make is was streptococcus, which causes sore throat, breakouts, boils and even abscesses.
Other types of bacteria found in expired makeup cames from household dust and dirty surfaces and the worst were organisms found in faecal matter.
These types of bacteria are normally found on the skin but overgrow in your makeup over time due to constant contamination. They, in turn, break down the antibacterial agents in your make up over time.
Clearly old makeup can be dangerous.
Dangers of old makeup
We know that old makeup can be contaminated but what are some of the dangers they pose to your health?
Skin infection
One of the most common adverse reactions to old makeup is skin infection and/or breakouts. Using expired makeup products can lead to a type of acne called ‘’acne cosmetica’’ caused by blockage of pores and bacterial overgrowth. Severe cases could lead to boils and abscesses on your skin due to infection. Expired eyeliner and mascara or eyeliner can lead to eye infection of varying severity as well as constant sensitivity.
If you have acne or skin issues which don’t respond to treatment look at your makeup. They may be the trigger for your acne which will not resolve until they are removed.
Poor performance and longevity
This I can attest to from personal experience I was being stubborn about throwing away and expired lipstick. Unfortunately due to its age, it applied horribly and the colour was off so it had to go into the bin.
What is the shelf life of your make up?
Some companies include a sell-by date on the container. However, all include this symbol called the ‘’period after opening ‘’ or PAO seen below with a number that indicates how many months you can use the product after it has been opened.
First posted on Beauty In Lagos
