How Long Does Mascara Last? (Explained)

How long does mascara last? Mascara is considered one of the most significant makeup products. It gives us long and thick eyelashes.

Mascara usually lasts for 3-6 months. After that time, the mascara will dry out, and bacteria can grow inside it, which is not safe to use anymore.

If you are not sure how old your mascara is, throw it away and get a brand-new one. Changing your mascara every three months is better to be on the safe side.

Mascara has a shorter shelf life than other types of makeup, such as lipstick and foundation.

The average lifespan of an unopened mascara is about three to four months and six weeks once it’s been opened and used.

Heat, humidity, and bacteria can cause mascara to break down and expire faster than the suggested timeframes.

Types of mascaras and their shelf lives

There are many different types of mascara on the market, each with its own shelf life.

Here are the most common types of mascara and how long they last:

Waterproof mascara: this type of mascara is designed to stay on through rain or tears and can last up to 12 hours. But, it can be difficult to remove and may need special cleaners or solvents.

Volumizing mascara: Volumizing mascara is designed to give your lashes more volume and can last up to 8 hours.

Lengthening Mascara: Lengthening mascara is designed to give your lashes a longer look and can last up to 8 hours.

Colored mascara: Colored mascara can add a pop of color to your lashes and can last up to 6 hours.

How long does unused mascara last?

Mascara that has never been used and is still in the box generally lasts between 3 to 6 months.

There is usually a symbol that looks like an open jar with a number and an M inside of it on the back or bottom of the mascara box.

The number indicates how many months the product is safe to use after being opened. For example, 6M means that the mascara will last for six months after being opened.

Once you open the mascara, you should write the date that you opened it on the back or bottom of the box. This is so that you can keep track of how long it has been open.

How long does mascara last after opening it?

After opening it, the mascara will last for six weeks. You should always close the lid of your mascara to prevent it from drying out.

If you notice that your mascara is starting to dry out before six weeks have passed.

After that, you can add a few drops of sterile saline or contact lens solution to the mascara to rehydrate it.

You should never add water to your mascara, as this can cause bacteria to grow inside the mascara and lead to an eye infection.

Tips for applying mascara

Below are some tips to help you apply your mascara correctly:

Start with a clean slate

Make sure your lashes are free of makeup or oil before applying mascara. This will help the mascara adhere better and last longer.

Use an eyelash curler

Curling your lashes before applying mascara can help give them extra volume and make them appear longer.

Apply mascara to the roots of your lashes

Start at the base of your lashes and wiggle the wand back and forth as you move it toward the tips. This will help deposit more product on your lashes and increase their volume.

Don’t forget the lower lashes

Many people forget to apply mascara to their lower lashes, which can help open up the eyes and give them a more defined look.

Let the first coat of mascara dry before applying a second.

This will help prevent your lashes from looking clumpy and make them appear longer and fuller.

Use waterproof mascara if you’re going to be sweating or in water.

Even in the most humid conditions, waterproof mascaras are designed to stay put.

Remove your mascara before going to bed.

Sleeping in your mascara can cause it to clump and become dried out, making it more difficult to remove. It can also irritate your eyes and cause them to become red and swollen.

How do you remove mascara without damaging your lashes?

So, after all that, how do you remove mascara without damaging your lashes? Here are some tips:

1. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and warm water. This will help to loosen the mascara and make it easier to remove.
2. Place a cotton ball soaked in makeup remover on your lashes and let it sit for a few minutes.
3. Wipe the cotton ball over your lashes to remove the mascara.
4. Repeat steps 2-3 until you have removed all the mascara from your lashes.
5. Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and cold water to remove any traces of makeup remover.
6. Apply a lash serum or oil to your lashes to help nourish and protect them.

Read On How to Wear Mascara With A Stye

When to Throw Away Mascara?

This is one of the critical questions that we should ask ourselves. When do we need to get new mascara?

The rule of thumb: discard your mascara three months after opening — six weeks if you’re using a waterproof version — regardless of how often you wear it.

“That’s because the formula dries out, making it a breeding ground for bacteria,” says cosmetic chemist Ni’Kita Wilson. Bacteria can lead to eye infections, sties, and other problems.

So there you have it — replace your mascara every 3-6 months (or sooner if it starts to dry out or smell funny). Always use a clean brush (or applicator) to apply it, and never share your mascara with anyone else!

Video: When Does Mascara Expire?

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5 FAQs about mascara

How often should I replace my mascara?

Mascara should be replaced every 3-6 months to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Can I use expired mascara?

No, you should not use expired mascara. The end date is there for a reason, and using expired mascara can lead to irritation or infection.

Will watery eyes affect my mascara?

Yes, watery eyes can cause your mascara to run or smudge. If you have watery eyes, be sure to use waterproof mascara.

How can I prevent my mascara from clumping?

To prevent your mascara from clumping, start with a clean brush and avoid pumping the brush into the bottle. Apply the mascara to your lashes in a zig-zag motion, starting at the base of your lashes and moving up to the tips.

My mascara is drying out; what can I do?

If your mascara is drying out, add a few drops of saline solution or eye drops to the bottle. This will help to rehydrate the mascara and make it easier to apply.

Conclusion

Mascara is an important part of any makeup routine, and it’s crucial to keep your mascara in good condition to achieve the desired look.

In this article, we’ve provided tips for making your mascara last longer and information on the shelf lives of different mascaras. We’ve also shared advice for applying mascara to prevent clumping.

By following these tips, you can ensure that your mascara will give you the long, thick eyelashes you desire.

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