Cover Photo Courtesy of Instagram.com/aesopskincare

Sometimes, it gets hard to toss out a beauty product that we really love. However, we know – deep, deep inside – that keeping on using it certainly won’t do our skin any favor. In fact, all beauty products carry a PAO – period after opening – symbol on their box, which when thrown out after a while, won’t be remembered, neither will be the date on which you have opened it.

Therefore, you should find a solution that suits your way of proceeding best. Besides taking into consideration whether the product in question has changed in color, developed an unconventional odor, became runny or lumpy or now feels strange on your skin, opting for a sticker on which you indicate the opening date and that of the day you should throw it away is the best way to go.

If it’s too late to know how long each of your products lasts, here’s a small recap:

-Mascara and eyeliner: 3 to 6 months unless they dry out earlier

-Cream, liquid or stick foundation and concealer: 6 months to 1 year

-Powder-based products – such as blush, bronzer, compact powder and eyeshadow: 2 to 3 years

-Lipstick, gloss and lip pencils: 2 to 3 years

The same principles apply to skincare products.

-Cleansers: 1 year

-Toners: 6 months to 1 year

-Exfoliants: 1 year

-Moisturizers and serums: 6 months to 1 year

-Lip balm: 1 year

Now you might ask yourself if there is a way to make your products last. Well, measures such as storing products in drawers and cabinets away from sunlight, tightening the cap after each use and avoiding sharing yours with others can pay off later.

Article Written by Mirella Haddad