When Should I Throw Out a Product?

Problem: I've heard a lot of different information regarding when I should throw away a cosmetic. Is there a time limit when products should be thrown away?

Solution: Unfortunately, there are no regulations or guidelines on the expiration date for skin-care or makeup products. The FDA has no rules on this issue whatsoever. Cosmetic companies generally do one to three year stability testing on their products, but this typically looks only at heat variables (freezing or overheating, for instance). It doesn't take into account how consumers use the products. Cosmetics that have been improperly stored-for example, exposed to sunlight, left open, contaminated (any product packaged in a jar has almost a 100% risk of being contaminated)-may deteriorate substantially before a year is up. On the other hand, products stored under ideal conditions may be acceptable long after any suggested "use by" dates.

So what should you do? In general, it is best to toss out cosmetics placed near the eye (like mascara) after four to six months, and to dispose of face products (moisturizers, foundations) after one to two years. The usage time for eye-area cosmetics is more limited than for other products. Because of microbial exposure and the risk of eye infections, some industry experts recommend replacing mascara every three months. If mascara becomes dry, discard it. Do not add water or saliva to moisten it as that will introduce bacteria into the product. If you have an eye infection, consult a physician immediately, stop using all eye-area cosmetics, and discard those you were using when the infection occurred.

Other cosmetics that might have a short shelf-life are "all natural" products that may contain plant-derived substances conducive to microbial growth. It also is important for consumers to consider the increased risk of contamination in some "natural" products that contain nontraditional preservatives or no preservatives at all.

Sharing makeup increases the risk of contamination. The testers commonly found at cosmetics counters are more likely to become contaminated than the same ones in an individual's home. If you feel you must test a cosmetic before purchasing it, apply it with a new, unused applicator, such as a fresh cotton swab. But remember?these are merely suggestions, and not based on any established research or guidelines. (Source: FDA Office of Cosmetics Facts Sheet, March 9, 2000, "Shelf Life-Expiration Date.")

Paula Begoun