Alright, let’s talk about something we’ve all been guilty of—hoarding makeup for way too long. You know, that eyeshadow palette you bought years ago that you keep “just in case”? Or that foundation sitting at the bottom of your kit like a forgotten treasure? 😅 But here’s the thing: makeup doesn’t last forever, and expired products are a recipe for breakouts, irritation, or just plain patchy looks. So, let’s dive into how you can stretch the lifespan of your beloved makeup products without compromising quality or hygiene.
- Know Your PAO (Period After Opening) ⏳
First up, get familiar with that little open jar icon on your product—it’s called the PAO symbol, and it tells you how long the product is good for after you crack it open. It’ll usually say something like “6M” or “12M” (6 months or 12 months). Trust that symbol like you trust your fave setting spray—it’s there to save you! 🛑
Tip for MUA’s: Write the opening date on your product with a sharpie or stick a little label on it. No guessing games when you’re halfway through your concealer!
- Store Them Right 🧴
Heat, humidity, and direct sunlight are your makeup’s worst enemies. Keep your products in a cool, dry place—like a proper vanity or organizer—not a steamy bathroom. If you’re traveling, try to avoid leaving your kit in a hot car (hello, melted lipstick disaster).
Extra hack: If you’re working with cream products or liquid foundations, refrigerate backups to extend their shelf life. Just don’t confuse your face mist with salad dressing! 😅
- Don’t Double-Dip (Yes, Even When You’re in a Rush) 🖌️
Look, I get it. Sometimes you’re in a hurry, and double-dipping a brush or sponge feels quicker. But every time you dip into that product, you’re inviting bacteria to set up camp. Use a spatula for creams and foundations or pour liquid products onto a palette before applying. Your clients—and your kit—will thank you. 🙌 - Tightly Seal Everything 🧼
This one’s simple: if the lid is loose or you forget to close something properly, air and moisture sneak in, and bam—your product’s lifespan gets cut short. Check your kit regularly to make sure everything’s sealed tight. It’s a small step, but it makes a huge difference! - Clean Tools = Longer Product Life 🧽
Dirty brushes and sponges are like tiny saboteurs, transferring bacteria and oils into your products. Keep your tools clean, and your makeup will last longer. Plus, clean brushes just work better, don’t they? - Avoid Pumping Mascara or Lip Gloss Wands 🎯
You know that satisfying pump you do with your mascara wand to “get more product”? Yeah, don’t. All you’re doing is pushing air into the tube, drying it out faster. Same goes for lip glosses with wands—try to resist overworking the applicator. Just scrape the excess off the side of the tube and carry on. - Decant Like a Pro 🖤
If you work on multiple clients, consider decanting liquid or cream products into smaller containers. Not only does it prevent contamination, but it also keeps the original product fresher longer. Bonus: it’s so much easier to carry lighter, compact versions of your essentials! - Toss What’s Gone Bad (Even If It Hurts) 💔
Here’s the tough love part: if a product looks, smells, or feels off, let it go. I know it’s hard to part with that favorite lipstick shade, but no makeup is worth risking a breakout or eye infection. Expired makeup can grow bacteria that you don’t want anywhere near your face—or your clients’ faces. - Track Your Stock 📋
If you’re a pro MUA with a big kit, keeping track of your products is crucial. Use a spreadsheet, an app, or even just a notebook to log your makeup’s purchase and opening dates. You’ll feel so organized, and you won’t be caught off-guard when a product reaches its expiration. - Invest in Multi-Use Products
One way to reduce waste? Choose products that do double (or triple!) duty. A cream blush that works as a lip tint or a bronzer that doubles as eyeshadow means you’ll use it up faster and minimize expiration worries.
Bonus Hack: Know When to Splurge vs. Save 💵
Some products are better bought in small quantities (like mascaras or eyeliners that dry out quickly), while others, like powders, tend to have longer shelf lives. Be strategic about where you spend your money, and you’ll save in the long run.
Suggestion for MUA’s:
Keeping your makeup products fresh and clean doesn’t have to be a chore—it’s all about building habits that’ll save you money, time, and hassle. Plus, your clients will notice the difference when you’re using fresh, high-quality products on their skin. So, take a few extra steps to baby your kit—you’ll be glad you did!
Now, go check your kit. I bet there’s at least one product in there you should’ve tossed months ago (don’t worry, I won’t tell). 😉
