When we talk about the makeup, the mascara leads the show. Without mascara, we cannot expect our makeup to be complete. While mascara is that important, do you know that this is one of the fastest-expiring makeup products from your bag?
Expired mascara can cause eye infections, irritation, and sometimes serious pain. So, it is better to change it before it expires. But how long does mascara last? Don’t worry, we will explore similar questions in today’s guide.
How Long is Mascara Good For?
As mentioned, mascara has the shortest lifespan among all your cosmetics. According to dermatologists and the FDA, mascara is good for just 3-6 months after opening, and you should use it within this timeframe. After this, it expires due to prolonged exposure to air, moisture, and bacteria. However, an unopened mascara can last for 2-3 years if stored properly.
Now that you know about mascara’s expiry, why is its lifespan so short? A mascara’s life is short because it frequently comes into contact with your eyes, where it encounters microbes and the natural oils from your lashes. Additionally, whenever you pump the mascara, air enters the tube, introducing bacteria. All these factors contribute to a shorter lifespan for mascara.
Factors that Consider Expiry of Mascara
While the 3-6 month rule is standard, mascara’s expiration date differs depending on factors such as storage conditions, ingredients, and more.
The factors that affect the life span of mascara are:
1. Frequency of Use
Daily users can last mascara even faster than its expiration date. In comparison, the occasional users can take too long to complete. However, the expiry does depend on the usage instead of the time, so it is better to change the mascara every 6 months, no matter whether you complete it or not.
2. Storage Condition
The next factor affecting mascara’s life is how it is stored. Direct contact with heat, humidity, and sunlight can increase the speed of bacteria growth and damage mascara faster. So always store mascara in a cool, dry place, not in your warm, steamy bathroom.
3. Formula Type
The expiration date of mascara also depends on its formula. Natural and organic mascara has a shorter life span of only 2-3 months, while one with preservatives can last up to 5-6 months.
4. Hygiene Habits
If you pump too much, then it will damage faster as it pushes more air inside your tube. Also, never share your mascara with anyone, as double dipping causes more bacteria and will get damaged faster.
How to Know if Mascara is Expired?
Sometimes, mascara can get damaged faster than the standard life span. You can identify the expired mascara. You can identify mascara by its texture, bad odor, color change, etc.
Signs to know the expired mascara are:
- Mascara with a dry or clumpy texture that is hard to apply.
- Mascara with a sour or unusual chemical smell.
- Mascara that causes burning, itching, or redness in the eyes.
- The mascara has changed color, like black, turning gray.
- Mascara that has been used for over six months.
How to Make Mascara Last Longer?
While your mistakes can damage the mascara quickly, there are ways to extend its lifespan. To make your mascara last longer, close the cap tightly, store it upright in a cool place, and keep it away from freezing or direct heat.
Ways to make mascara last longer.
- Twist the wand gently instead of pumping to stop air from getting in.
- Always close the cap tightly to keep it clean and safe.
- Wipe the wand with a tissue once a month to remove extra product.
- Stand your mascara upright to keep it from drying out.
- Don’t leave your mascara in hot places like cars or sunlight.
|| Also Read: What is Mascara Made Out Of?
Risk of Using Expired Mascara?
Using expired mascara does not just cause minor issues; it can also cause serious health issues. The eyes are delicate organs, and using expired products on them is non-negotiable and can cause serious problems, such as vision issues.
The risks of using expired mascara are:
1. Severe Eye Infections
Expired mascara is considered the home of many harmful bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and even fungi. These bacteria can cause serious issues like styes, pink eye, dark circles, and fungal keratitis.
2. Allergic Reaction
Expired and damaged mascara ingredients can cause allergic reactions, such as swelling, itching, watery or bloodshot eyes, burning, or even stinging. This occurs because preservatives like parabens break down over time and form new compounds, which can be harmful to the eyes.
3. Eyelash Damage and Loss
Eyelash damage is a non-bearable problem that can occur from using damaged mascara. Old and expired mascara dries out and becomes clumpy, and using it causes a lot of friction around the eyelashes, which weakens them. This can lead to serious issues such as breakage, lash loss, and redness of the eyelashes.
4. Damaged Other Product
When applying makeup, damaged mascara can get mixed with other makeup, damaging those items as well and causing further harm to your body. So, don’t use the same brush for mascara and eyeshadow, especially if your mascara shows damaged symptoms.
5. Financial Burden
While changing mascara every 3-6 months seems like a financial burden, the long-lasting results are different. Using damaged mascara can cause serious health issues, which can cost a lot in treatment and medical bills.
Conclusion
So, how long does mascara last? The general answer is 3-6 months, but it depends on several factors that we already discussed. So always check if your mascara shows any expiration symptoms, such as smelling bad, having a bad texture, or being harder to apply. If it does, it means it is time to change your mascara; don’t wait for 6 months.
Remember, mascara is not just about beauty; using a damaged one means risking your health. While it may cost a bit more today, replacing the damaged one can save you from bigger eye issues.
People Also Ask
How long should mascara last if used daily?
Mascara lasts 3-6 months, but if it is used daily, it can be completed within 2 months.
Can I revive dried-out mascara?
To revive your dried mascara, keep it in warm water for 2-3 minutes by closing it tightly. However, never add water inside it, as it can cause bacteria growth.
Does waterproof mascara expire faster?
While the application and removal processes of waterproof mascara are easier, its advantages include expiring faster than regular mascara — typically within 3 to 4 months.
How long does a tube of mascara last if unopened?
The expiry date of mascara is generally written on the tube, but unopened mascara generally stays fresh for 2-3 years from the date of manufacture.
