Do you like to keep creams in the fridge, try to extend the shelf life of your mascara by diluting it with eye drops, or don’t pay attention to dates at all? Then don’t be surprised at the change in your face. The appearance of inflammation, redness, and pigmentation can be cased by cosmetics that were stored incorrectly.
However, you can change this situation by using a makeup storage box or following one of these 15 hacks.
Don’t Store Cosmetics in the Bathroom
Don’t store cosmetics for your face and body in the bathroom (except for cleansing products, like washing products, shower gel, and shampoos). The temperature is constantly changing there, and the humidity is high. Such an atmosphere changes the consistency of your cosmetics, reducing their shelf life.
Cosmetics should ideally be stored in a dark place. Too much light can result in plastic jars being heated, and their contents spoiled.
Look at the Expiration Date
The contents of beautiful jars, even from the most luxurious brands, cannot be stored forever. So be sure to look at the expiration date before you use the product. Different products have their own expiration dates.
Cosmeceutical products can often be stored for up to three years, and mass-market products expire in 24 weeks.
If you have already opened the product, its expiration date has been reduced. This information is usually written on the package. Some products have a shelf life of 6 months or less.
Close Jars Carefully
Be careful to close your jars properly and protect the contents from oxygen and dust.
Otherwise, oxidation processes will begin in the product, and it will get spoiled faster. Don’t throw away the plastic lid-gasket from the cream jar. It’s additional protection against dirt, dust, and bacteria.
Use Spatulas
Most creams come with special spatulas, and they’re not there for nothing. To keep dirt out of the jar, use one spatula only to scoop the product and don’t forget to clean it (at least once a week).
Alternatively, buy products with spray or pump action dispensers. Such packaging prevents the penetration of bacteria and oxygen and prolongs the life of the product.
Use Airtight Containers
If you’ve misplaced the original container or jar for your cosmetics, consider transferring them to airtight containers. An airtight seal minimises the risk of contaminants entering the product, thereby extending its longevity. It’s important for products like loose powder and eyeshadow, which are susceptible to moisture and bacteria.
Keep Products Away from Direct Sunlight
Direct exposure to sunlight can cause your cosmetics to deteriorate quickly. UV rays break down the chemical composition of products, making them less effective and, in some cases, even harmful. Keep your makeup stash away from windows and other areas that receive direct sunlight.
Store Products Upright
Make sure to store liquid-based cosmetics like foundations, serums, and lotions upright. This prevents leakage and also ensures that the product doesn’t settle at the bottom, making it easier to use every last drop.
Separate Seasonal Cosmetics
Different seasons often require different types of cosmetics. During summer, you might prefer lighter lotions and water-based makeup, while winter may call for heavy-duty moisturisers and cream-based cosmetics. To keep your cosmetics in the best condition, separate them based on seasons and store those not in use in a cool, dry place.
Double-check Multi-Use Products
Many of us have products that are multi-functional, serving as both a cheek and lip color or a contour and eyeshadow. While this is convenient, cross-contamination is possible. Use separate applicators for different areas to prevent this.
Maintain a Cosmetics Inventory
Keep a list of all your cosmetics and their respective expiration dates. This will help you keep track of products that need to be used up or thrown away. You can use an app or a simple pen-and-paper list for this purpose. Update it whenever you make a new purchase.
Invest in a Cosmetics Organiser
To prevent clutter and easily access your go-to products, buy a cosmetics organiser. These come in various forms, such as:
- Drawer dividers. For segregating products based on type or frequency of use.
- Acrylic boxes. Transparent boxes to easily see and access your products.
- Rotating makeup towers. These offer maximum storage and easy access by spinning around.
Perform a Regular Audit
Set aside time every few months to go through your makeup collection. Toss out products that are expired, have a strange smell, or have changed in texture. Replace them as needed, and give the remaining ones a good wipe-down to keep them fresh.
Don’t Store Cosmetics in a Normal Fridge
The fridge is a good place for some anti-oedema products, that have a better effect when refrigerated, and for some natural cosmetics that don’t contain preservatives. By placing these products in the fridge, you can extend their shelf life.
But products with oil textures shouldn’t be stored in the fridge — the cold changes their consistency and effectiveness.
Ideally, it’s better to buy a small fridge for storing cosmetics. It maintains the optimal temperature, and the surface of this unit is covered with an antibacterial composition. Your cosmetics won’t interfere with food and will last longer there.
Don’t Carry Your Beauty Products in Your Handbag
Can’t part with your favourite jar of cream even during the day? Be aware that leaving a premium product in your handbag all day and exposing it to a range of different temperatures may lead to a change in its properties.
If you want to moisturise your skin during the day, look out for wipes and sponges impregnated with vitamin C concentrate, plant fermented extracts, or products with hyaluronic acid. This is the best option — just open the individual package with a sponge or napkin, wipe your face, and throw it away.
Keep an Eye on the Condition of Your Cosmetics
If your cream has changed in smell, texture, or colour, it means that the storage conditions were violated. The cosmetics penetrated oxygen, dirt, and bacteria multiplied here. Such a product should be thrown away immediately.