Understanding the Shelf Life of Mascara
Mascara is a cosmetic product that has been around since the Ancient Egyptians. It is used to enhance the eyes by making the eyelashes appear thicker, longer, and darker. However, like any other cosmetic product, mascara has a limited shelf life. Using expired mascara can lead to a range of eye infections and other issues, which is why it is essential to know how long mascara can last.
The Shelf Life of Mascara
The shelf life of mascara varies depending on the brand, type, and packaging. Usually, an unopened mascara can last up to two to three years from the date of manufacture. But once opened, the shelf life reduces to three to six months. This is because the mascara wand picks up bacteria, and continuous exposure to air can dry out the product, making it clumpy and flaky, making it less effective.
Dangers of Using Expired Mascara
Using expired mascara can lead to various eye infections, including conjunctivitis, sties, and even corneal ulcers. Mascara wands operate in a warm and moist environment, which is the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. Using an expired mascara wand can transfer those bacteria to your eyes, causing infections that can cause serious irritation or damage.
Tips to Extend the Shelf Life of Mascara
To extend the shelf life of your mascara, it is essential to follow some crucial tips. Always keep your mascara tightly closed after every use, which prevents air from damaging the product. Additionally, avoid pumping the wand inside the tube, which lets in air and dries out the mascara. Try to use a separate brush or wand if you want to add several coats of mascara. Finally, follow the timeline and toss out old mascara after three months of use.
The Bottom Line
Understanding the shelf life of mascara is critical in maintaining your overall eye health. Using expired mascara can lead to severe infections and irritations, affecting your daily life. Thus, to avoid such issues, keep track of the timeline and discard the mascara when you notice any changes in color, texture or it smells different than when you first purchased it. By following the right tips, you can extend the life of your mascara and avoid unwanted health issues.
