How long does your makeup last?
Pick a product and the day you opened it. We'll tell you when it's time to let it go.
Choose a product and an opening date to see its use-by date.
Let Vannie remember for you
Vannie tracks the opening date of everything you own and reminds you before each product expires.
Signs your makeup has gone off
Whatever the date says, trust your senses.
It smells different: sour, waxy, musty or like crayons.
The texture has changed: clumpy, dry, grainy, sticky or runny.
Liquids have separated and don't mix back when you shake them.
The colour has shifted, or it no longer applies the way it used to.
It stings, itches or breaks you out where it used to be fine.
Spots, a film or anything fuzzy on the surface. Throw it out at once.
Make it last
- Close lids tightly and keep products out of hot cars and steamy bathrooms.
- Don't pump mascara wands. It pushes air into the tube and dries it out.
- Wash brushes and sponges every week so they don't carry bacteria back into your products.
- Never add water or spit to thin a product. It brings in bacteria.
How long makeup lasts after opening
A quick guide by product. The symbol on your pack always comes first.
Eyes
| Product | Replace after | Most sources say |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months | ||
| 3 months | 3–6 months | |
| 3 months | 3–6 months | |
| 1 year | 1–2 years | |
| 1 year | 1–2 years | |
| 6 months | 6–12 months | |
| 3 months | 3–6 months | |
| 1 year | 1–2 years |
Face
| Product | Replace after | Most sources say |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months | 6–12 months | |
| 6 months | 6–12 months | |
| 1 year | 1–2 years | |
| 6 months | 6–12 months | |
| 6 months | 6–12 months | |
| 1 year | 1–2 years | |
| 1 year | ||
| 1 month | 1–3 months |
Cheeks
| Product | Replace after | Most sources say |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 1–2 years | |
| 6 months | 6–12 months | |
| 1 year | 1–2 years | |
| 1 year | 1–2 years |
Lips
| Product | Replace after | Most sources say |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 12–18 months | |
| 6 months | 6–12 months | |
| 6 months | 6–12 months | |
| 1 year | 1–2 years | |
| 1 year |
Nails & fragrance
| Product | Replace after | Most sources say |
|---|---|---|
| 1 year | 1–2 years | |
| 3 years | 3–5 years |
Skincare
| Product | Replace after | Most sources say |
|---|---|---|
| 6 months | 6–12 months | |
| 6 months | 6–12 months | |
| 3 months | 3–6 months | |
| 6 months | 6–12 months | |
| 1 year |
What about unopened makeup?
Most unopened makeup keeps for about two to three years when stored somewhere cool and dry. If a product has a printed expiry date, that date applies whether it's open or not. Sunscreen should always be used before its printed date.
This guide uses common advice from dermatologists and the cosmetics industry. It isn't medical advice. Your product's own label always comes first.