Most of us wouldn’t dream of eating from a dirty plate or tucking into food that’s past its best-before date. Yet when it comes to our beauty routines, we can be far less vigilant.
A 2013 study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science found that almost 98% of participants admitted to using makeup past its expiration date – with mascara the most common culprit.
Even more concerning, 79% of expired samples revealed traces of Staphylococcus aureus (Staph), a type of bacteria linked to skin irritation and infection.
How clean is your makeup bag?
The golden rule for clean cosmetics is simple: apply them to clean skin, with clean hands and clean tools. Think, too, about where you place products when on the go. Bathroom sinks, work desks or train tables can harbour unseen dirt and bacteria, which can be easily transferred back into our makeup bags.
To counter this, entrepreneur Izzy Howe developed Flat Lay Co.’s signature drawstring makeup bag, which opens out flat to create a clean, portable surface.
“When you’re on the move, your makeup bag becomes your mobile beauty station, so hygiene is key,” Izzy explains. “Regularly wiping down products and spot-cleaning your bag can also go a long way in keeping bacteria at bay.”
Looking after your tools
If you use makeup brushes each day, aim to wash them weekly. For less frequent use, treat them to a gentle cleanse before each use, allowing plenty of drying time. Store brushes separately from makeup to avoid cross-contamination.
A 2019 study led by researchers at Aston University highlighted just how crucial this is. Of the beauty blenders tested, 93% had never been washed, with many showing traces of harmful bacteria and fungi. Keeping tools clean not only protects our skin, but also preserves the quality of the products we use.
Shelf life matters
Every beauty product carries a small open-jar icon indicating how long it can be safely used after opening. This is typically six months for mascara, six to 12 months for serums or moisturisers, and up to two years for body washes.
“It’s so important to take note of this,” says Tamsin Styles, Director of ARK Skincare. “If a product states six months, it must be discarded after that period, even if it hasn’t reached its expiry date.”
Packaging also plays its part. Airless pumps and tubes reduce exposure to air and bacteria, helping formulations stay safe and effective for longer.
And don’t forget, application is key.
“Never put your fingers in a formulation,” says Tasmin. “Use a spatula or clean applicator instead.”
Time to let go?
If a product looks, smells or feels different from when you first opened it, it’s time to say goodbye.
A 2020 survey by Maybelline found that 81% of respondents had makeup up to seven years old in their bags, with many knowingly ignoring expiry dates. Remember: when in doubt, it’s best to err on the side of caution.
Recycling your empties
Thankfully, more options exist than ever for responsible disposal.
Partnering with TerraCycle, Maybelline offers in-store recycling bins in over 1000 Superdrug, Boots and Sainsbury’s stores across the UK.
Boots also has its own recycling scheme, where you can bring your empty beauty, health and wellness products that can’t be recycled at home. Hand in five qualifying empties alongside a £10 spend, and you’ll be rewarded with £5 worth of Boots Advantage Card points.
