Woman Goes Blind After Using Expired Mascara

Aug 02, 2018

For many women, applying makeup is just another part of their daily routine. However, many beauty products can be pretty expensive. They all have an expiration date, but some women decide to ignore the number and continue to apply the products to their face long after they should have been thrown out.

We want to warn you about the disastrous consequences this can have.

Shirley Potter found a tube of expired mascara from 20 years ago. She was unaware that it had expired and decided to use it. She soon developed an eye infection that needed medical treatment. Doctors have since told her that she will lose her eyesight in just three years.

Sally Nolan, the fashion and beauty director of the magazine New Idea, said that it is vital to always check the expiration dates of your beauty products. She told Yahoo that the expiration date of an eye product is generally about three to six months after being opened. Foundations and other face products can usually last from a year to 18 months after opening.

Dr. Warren Weightman is a dermatologist who believes that the makeup industry should be more forthcoming in their warnings. He does think that this particular case was a rare one, but it is still important to be aware of how old your beauty products are before using them.

He told Yahoo that many beauty products do not even have an expiration date stamped on them. Not only that, many of these products come from overseas and there is no way to police them.

The expirations times between different brands may vary. However, they typically average out to be the same. Every beauty product should come with an expiration date.

However, follow this guide to learn about the lifespans of the most popular beauty products:

Mascara- three to six months

Liquid Eyeliner- six months or less

Eyeliner- up to two years

Eyeshadow- up to 12 months

Lip Liner- up to two years

Liquid Foundation- up to 12 months

Concealer- up to 12 months

Powder Blush- one year

Cream Blush- up to 12 months

Lipstick- one year

Skin Care Products- up to two years

If you make sure to take care of your beauty products, they will last a few extra months after the expiration date, according to an interview from Women's Health.

You should always thoroughly wash your hands before applying makeup, never add water or saliva to the products, and keep them stored in a cool, dry place. You should also never share makeup with friends or family.

If you notice your makeup is starting to smell or if you see an obvious change in the texture of the product, it is best to just throw it out and buy a new one.

Have you had any problems with old makeup? Tell us in the comments! And be sure to pass this information along to friends!