Keep it fresh!
What are the best practices for keeping cosmetics fresh?
Keep in mind that the funds in a sealed packet with dispensers are kept better than cosmetics jars with large exposure to air. As well as cosmetics, which contains the alcohol (deodorants, perfumes, varnishes) can be stored much longer than natural cosmetics without preservatives. Products with solid consistency (lipsticks, pencils) are kept better than the liquid (cream, body lotion, shampoo, shower gel).
In addition, to let your favorite cosmetics “live” up to date promised by the manufacturer, it must be properly stored – constant low air temperature area, without direct access to sunlight, avoiding moisture.
To get maximum benefit and enjoyment from your cosmetics, follow the simple rules of hygiene.
Before you wash off makeup or apply the cream, wash your hands with soap and water.
Be sure to clean brushes and applicators at least once a week. For these purposes, there are even special “cleansers for brushes”: spray it on brushes and carefully wipe with a cloth. Usually they contain alcohol, which disinfects the brushes.
From time to time it is recommended to disinfect the edge of jars, tubes and caps, and remove cream which remains on them.
If you have oily skin, and you use powdery cosmetics (powder, blush, eye shadow…), use latex sponges or disposable puffs; if you’re using brushes – do not forget to wash them after each use. Otherwise, the sebum can get to the powder with an applicator and shorten its shelf life.
If you have any cream in jars, try to avoid touching its content with your fingers; instead, use a putty knife and clean it after each use. If you’ll apply the cream with your fingers, bacteria can get to a jar.
Bacteria, molds, fungi that grow in cosmetics, may cause various unpleasant skin reactions, and they thrive in warm and humid conditions. That’s why cosmetics should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It is not recommended to store makeup in the bathroom (very damp). Please note that cosmetics do not like the heat and quickly deteriorate. You can store cosmetics (especially creams, lotions) in the refrigerator. The ideal temperature is 8-12 degrees Celsius (46.4-53.6 Fahrenheit).
Thoroughly cover the jars, tubes and bottles, avoid prolonged contact of cosmetic products with the air.
Powdery (shadow, blush, powder…) are stored best because they do not contain water. Their average shelf life is three years. Just avoid the ingress of water and fat. As soon as you notice that the eye shadows began to crumble – trash it!
Lipstick can also serve you well for the same promised three years. But matte lipstick dries much faster and usually deteriorates sooner. And as soon as you feel that lipstick has rancid taste – trash it!
Try to avoid using foundation more than a year. Carefully close the box and never take cream with your fingers straight from the jar.
Mascara should be replaced every 3-6 months. If you are prone to eye diseases, choose a waterproof mascara; vaseline based solvents make an unfavorable environment for bacteria. In order to maximize mascara shelf life, try to minimize the time when the tube is opened; in any case, do not leave it open.
Eyeliner can work for you during a long time, especially if you do not forget to close the cap after use and sharpen them regularly.
Means for removing makeup and tonics should be used exclusively and according the period indicated on the package. Close them with care and store in a cool place.
Another hint: if you have over 10 lip gloss for this season, and you’ve got eleventh – do not hurry to open it. Keep it in the refrigerator. Such way you can keep it intact until at least the next season.
And watch out for expiration dates!