How long can you keep your cosmetics ?

Our cosmetics DO have an expiry date. 

If you pay attention to the packaging, you will sometimes notice a box with a number followed by the letter M (“24M”, “6M”…). This actually means that once you open your product you have 24 or 6 (etc) months to use it, but this is actually just  an indicator. Companies have to use this system since 2005 in order to protect consummers...but also themselves.

What you should know is that it is highly recommended to follow this guidline but there are also others tricks to know if you can keep your products a little bit longer or not. 

What you need to do is examinate your beloved product and notice if there is the slightest change of:

• Texture
• Scent
• Color

If any of the three is occuring, then it is time to get rid of the product. As long as  the product remains consistent and similar to how it was when your first got it, then you can keep it.

What you should also know is that:

• The most resistant cosmetics are powders texture, so you can keep them a little longer than it is said.
• Everything that is water-based (you will know if you find “water/aqua” in the ingredient list) is less resistant. Because there are more chances for bacteria to develop in “humid” environment, you have to be very cautious which such products and strictly respect the expiration date. 
• Pay a special attention to your mascara, which is the #1 product that can cause you irritation and allergies. I don’t usually keep my mascara more than two or three months (even if the label says six), especially because I have sensitive eyes.