BeautyView: Five Products You Should Replace Every Six Months
You should discard mascara, liquid eyeliner, cream/liquid foundation, cream eyeshadow/blush, and liquid facial creams/moisturizers after about 6 months because they're prone to bacteria. While mascaras are especially risky for eye infections, requiring replacement. Items like powders or lipsticks last longer, but liquid/cream products near the eyes and face need regular turnover for hygiene and effectiveness, especially if they show signs of separation, smell off, or dry out. Using old mascara and eyeliner frequently leads to reported eye infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye) and styes, as the moist product tubes become breeding grounds for bacteria (like S. aureus), fungi, and even Demodex mites, causing inflammation, redness, discharge, and in rare cases, vision-threatening issues, emphasizing the need to replace eye makeup every 3 months.
Bacteria transfer from eyelashes to the wand, multiply in the tube, and cause conjunctivitis or styes (infected oil glands). Old makeup can also harbor fungi, leading to irritation. Mascara tubes are a prime environment for these mites, which can cause eyelid inflammation (blepharitis).
Flakes from metallic shadows or particles trapped under contact lenses can scratch the eye.
Common symptoms such as- red, itchy, or swollen eyes/eyelids, watery eyes or discharge, crusty eyelashes light sensitivity or blurry vision. Store properly keep items in a cool, dry place, not a damp bathroom if possible. Always apply with clean hands and brushes. And sharpening removes surface bacteria.
Don't apply liner to the inner eyelid (waterline). And never share makeup. It spreads germs easily.
Here are five beauty items to toss after 6 months
Mascara: Replace every 3-6 months; it's a breeding ground for bacteria and a major cause of eye infections.
Liquid Eyeliner: Similar to mascara, these liquid formulas should be tossed after 3-6 months.
Cream or Liquid Foundation: These water-based products can harbor bacteria and should be replaced within 6-12 months of opening.
Cream Eyeshadows & Blushes: Creamy formulas can grow mold and bacteria, making 6-12 months the typical lifespan.
Liquid Facial Creams & Serums (Scoop-out tubs): Creams you dip fingers into are more exposed to contamination, making 6-9 months a good guideline, while pump bottles last longer.
When in doubt, throw it out, especially for eye products where infection risk is high. ++
