Lipsticks. We love them. We collect them obsessively—maybe a bit too obsessively sometimes—but are we actually using them? Like, when’s the last time you wore that super bold plum shade, the one you convinced yourself you needed for fall? And wait…how long have some of these been sitting at the bottom of your makeup bag already? 😳
I know, I know…if you’re anything like me, you’ve got lipsticks collecting in drawers, in purses, and maybe even in random pockets of old jeans. And then the dreaded question arises: Does lipstick even expire? Short answer: YES. Long answer: Let’s have a chat about how to tell if it’s time to let go of your beloved lippies. 🫣
Because nobody wants crusty, old makeup, right?
So, How Long Does Lipstick Really Last? 📅
Okay, brace yourself—but lipsticks are not forever, fam. Even your lil’ faves have an expiration date, and that date is usually 12 to 24 months from the day you opened it. And if you’ve had one lingering around long enough to forget when you even opened it…uh, we might have a problem.
Most brands label their products with a tiny open-jar symbol on the packaging. You’ve probably seen it around without knowing exactly what it meant. It’ll say something like “12M” or “24M” which basically means that once you turn the cap for the first time, the countdown to lipstick doomsday begins. 🕗 Yup, after that period, your lipstick starts losing its texture, color payoff, and can even develop bacteria. YIKES.
The clock starts ticking the moment you break the seal! Stay alert and keep tabs on when you first dip into any lipstick.
The 5 Signs It’s Time to Toss That Lipstick
We’ve all got that one lipstick that holds a special place in our hearts (R.I.P. to the discontinued shades), but love alone can’t save it from turning on us. 😩 Here are the surefire signs that your lipstick might be expired:
1. It Smells Different (Kinda Funky, Not in a Good Way) 👃
Let’s keep it real—the scent is the #1 dead giveaway that something’s off. Seriously, if your lipstick smells like crayons 🖍️or like something rancid, it’s time to let it go. Lipsticks contain oils, and oils can go bad over time. Once they oxidize, the scent goes from sweet like vanilla or fruity paradise to just…ew.
That weird crayon smell? Yup, your lipstick’s past its prime. No one wants funky-smelling lips!
2. Texture Changed? Byeee 👋
If your lipstick suddenly feels drier or grittier than normal when you swipe it across your lips, that’s another red flag. Lipsticks should glide on smoothly, but if it’s tugging or feels like you’re trying to spread chalk over your mouth, that’s a huge sign it’s expiring (or already did). Texture changes happen because the ingredients in the formula start breaking down over time. And an expired formula? Major throwaway vibes.
3. It Looks Weird AF on Your Lips 💀
Like, have you ever put on a lipstick and it just looked off? We’re talking streaky application, patchy color, or oily spots that weren’t there before. If it separates on your lips or turns into some gunky nightmare situation, don’t even think about trying to “save” it. Toss it immediately. Nobody has time for inconsistent flakes and patchy clown lips, babe.
4. The Formula Has Separated in the Tube
Oooooooof. This one’s a bad sign. If you open your lipstick and notice some weird, watery oil stuff coming out of the top—or if the color looks like it’s split into layers just sitting there 👀—that’s separation. Moisture and oil separating from the pigments means that baby’s long gone. No amount of swatching on your wrist is going to save it.
5. It’s Been… Years? 😳 (Let’s Be Real)
Okay, I’m guilty too. Sometimes we just don’t want to part ways with a lipstick we love because it’s ~nostalgic~ or it holds memories. But sis, if it’s been, like, 3 or more years, do yourself (and your lips) a favor and throw. it. out. I promise you—you don’t want whatever bacteria could be growing in there near your skin.
Lipstick generally won’t give you crazy infections straight out the gate but old lipstick = bacteria breeding ground. Just don’t risk it.
Pro Tips for Making Your Lipstick Last Longer ✨
Now that we know when it’s definitely time to say goodbye to your fave lipsticks, let’s get into some tips for making your current collection last a bit longer. Because, seriously, makeup is expensive, and we all want to get as much life out of our products as possible.
1. Store It Somewhere Cool (No, Not The Refrigerator) ❄️
It might sound tempting to throw your lipsticks in the fridge, but that’s actually too much cold. They do best at room temperature or in cooler areas, like in a drawer or makeup bag that’s away from direct sunlight. Heat and moisture can mess with the formula, speeding up expiration. Sooo, maybe don’t leave it in a hot car or keep it out on your vanity that’s getting blasted with sunlight all day.
2. Avoid Sharing Lipstick 🙅♀️💄
I know it’s hard if your bestie wants to try that perfect nude shade, but sharing lipsticks can transfer bacteria and shorten the life of the product. On top of that: Lipsticks get compromised when exposed to spit or bacteria from someone else’s mouth (ewwww). So yeah, you guessed it—no borrowing or swapping lipsticks like we did in middle school, okay?
3. Wipe or Sanitize Your Lipstick
Okay, if you’re legit tryna be extra spicy on the clean front, give your lipstick a gentle wipe after each use. This just keeps any reapplying leftovers from festering around the surface. You can even gently spray the top of your lipstick with some rubbing alcohol and let it air-dry if you’re feeling super next-level.
Should You Toss It or Try to Save It?
So you’re staring at a lipstick that looks kind of sketchy but think maaaybe it still has some life left in it? Honestly, here’s the rule I stick by: when in doubt, toss it out. I know it sucks to throw things away, but let’s be real—your lips (and maybe even your health!) are worth more than clinging to that-less-than half-used lipstick you’ve been too sentimental about ditching.
Also, ask yourself: does this lipstick spark joy (lol shout out to Marie Kondo) or is it just clogging up my makeup drawer? Be brutal! ✂️
If you’re questioning it, it’s probably time to part ways. Trust your gut, and your lips will thank you later.
But Wait, What Happens if You Wear Expired Lipstick?
So if you do happen to put on expired lipstick, don’t panic—it’s not like you’re automatically gonna get a skin rash or anything. Most expired lippies will just feel gross or streaky, and you might notice that they don’t last as long. Worst-case scenario, it could lead to some mild irritation or blocked pores near your mouth area 👄. It’s always better to play it safe so you don’t end up with that “weird rash” you can’t explain at brunch.
Recap, Real Quick:
Lipstick absolutely expires, and yes, it’ll give you plenty of shady signals that it’s gone to the makeup graveyard. Don’t ignore these signs, okay? Weird smells, funky textures, noticeable separation, and streaky vibes—those are all bad news. And if it’s been chillin’ in your collection for longer than 2 years, you already know it’s time, my friend. 💀
So yeah, have fun swiping on your bold red and iconic nudes, but just keep an eye on how long they’ve been in the game, and keep your lips fresh and happy!
Alright babes, let’s go give that lipstick stash a spring cleaning, shall we? 😘
