5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Makeup

What could possibly be worse than bad makeup? Good makeup that’s gone bad.

We hate to break it to you, but it may be time for some spring cleaning in your makeup bag. As much as that liquid lipstick looks divine on you, it may be way past its prime (we won’t go into the details, but just trust us on this one—expired makeup is so not cute).

Just like reality TV stars and fidget spinners, makeup has an expiration date. How long it stays fresh depends on the ingredients and the type of product. Makeup without chemical additives, like Beauty Bakerie baked goods, won’t last as long as the stuff packed with gross preservatives and parabens. But once makeup is past its expiration date, the product may not perform on par.

Here are a few sure signs it’s time to toss those compacts and mascara tubes, and restock your makeup favorites.

1. You Purchased It When Taylor Swift Was Singing Country Music

We don’t know about you, but we don’t have time to maintain a makeup calendar. But just about any makeup product won’t last longer than 24 months. Generally speaking, mascaras last around three months (shocked us, too!), eyeshadows and gel and liquid eyeliners decline after six months, foundation and concealer expire after a year, and lip products and face powders can only take the heat in the kitchen for up to a year and a half (at the very most!).

2. It Smells Like a Boy’s Locker Room

Okay, yes, you may have never been in a boy’s locker room, but you can probably imagine the smell! If your makeup smells funky, it’s because it is. When makeup starts to smell, it may be harboring bacteria, the ingredients may be breaking down, and you could break out or a get mild skin irritation or infection. Gross, we know. Toss it in the trash and never look back!

3. Applying or Removing It Requires More Effort Than Arm Day at the Gym

Makeup should never go on clumpy or gloopy, nor should it start separating in the bottle. All of this leads to a lot of bottle shaking and product blending that leaves your arms sore by the time you’re ready for a final application of lip gloss. Removing old makeup can be just as difficult, with so many used wipes, your boyfriend will start to think your bathroom has become a war zone. When makeup application or removal causes you to work up a sweat, it’s time to say goodbye to those products.

4. It Just Feels Wrong

Like Halloween without candy, some things are just plain wrong. One of those things is makeup that feels weird when you apply it. Have you ever applied lip gloss and it felt way too sticky or thick? Or smoothed on foundation and it’s suddenly patchy or streaky? Makeup shouldn’t feel like a Halloween mask. It should feel smooth on your skin, emphasize your true beauty, and be comfortable to wear.

5. You’re Ready for a New Look

Sometimes your makeup is fine, but you’re just itching for a new look. It’s okay, Sweets, we’re right there with you! Buying new makeup is like a trip to Disneyland without the long lines. Especially with deals in our online store. There’s nothing that can improve a Monday morning better than a new flavor of liquid lipstick, a scoop of Gelato, or a sprinkle of glitter.

With these tips in hand, you’ll never have to worry about expired makeup! And remember to shop the stuff that’s good for your skin - paraben-free, gluten-free and cruelty-free, without nasty preservatives!