As one of the most popular cosmetics for women, lipstick, do you know how long its shelf life is? According to the suggestion of the manufacturer's engineer, the shelf life of the lipstick in use is about two years. However, this can vary depending on how you store and use your lipstick. In this article, we explain why lipsticks expire, how to tell if yours is expired, and how to make your lipstick last longer.
Why do lipsticks expire?
There are two main reasons why lipstick expires: bacterial growth and oxidation. Bacteria can grow on lipstick every time you put it on your lips or touch it with your fingers. This may cause infection or irritation of the lips or skin. Oxidation occurs when your lipstick is exposed to air, light, or heat. This can change the color, texture, smell, or performance of the lipstick.
How to tell if lipstick has expired?
There are some signs to tell if your lipstick has expired. Here are some of them:
Color change: If your lipstick looks darker, lighter, or patchy than before, it may be oxidized or contaminated.
Texture Changes: If your lipstick feels drier, firmer, stickier, or crumbly than before, it may be losing moisture or emollients.
Change in smell: If your lipstick smells rancid, sour, or worse than before, it could be due to bacterial growth or oxidation.
Changes in Performance: If your lipstick doesn't apply evenly, fades quickly, runs easily, or feels more uncomfortable on the lips than before, it may have lost quality or effectiveness.
How to make lipstick last longer?
You love your lipstick collection but don't want to throw out your favorite colors when they expire. How to make lipstick last longer and save money? Here are some tips:
Store lilipstick in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight and heat. Heat and light can reduce the effectiveness of ingredients and change the color and texture of the lipstick.
Clean lipstick regularly with paper towels or alcohol-soaked cotton swabs. This removes bacteria and dirt that could lead to spoilage or infection.
Sharpen the lip liner before each use and wipe off excess product with a tissue. This prevents cross-infection and keeps the lip liner fresh.
Avoid sharing lipstick with others or applying it directly to your lips after eating or drinking. This spreads bacteria and saliva, shortening the shelf life of the lipstick.
Check the expiration date or lot number on the lipstick packaging. You can also use the online tool,
in short
Lipstick is a beauty staple that elevates any look. However, it also has an expiration date that you should be aware of. By following these simple guidelines, you can enjoy wearing your favorite lipstick without compromising your health or style.
