Can Expired Makeup Cause Infections? What You Need to Know

Cosmetics are an everyday part of many skincare and beauty routines, but like other personal-care products, they do not remain suitable for use indefinitely. The shelf life of a cosmetic refers to the period during which it is expected to remain safe, effective, and usable when stored and handled properly.

Interestingly, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not require most cosmetics to carry a specific expiration date on their labels^[1]. Instead, manufacturers are responsible for determining how long their products remain safe under normal conditions. Eye-area cosmetics, such as mascara, generally have a shorter usable life due to their greater risk of microbial contamination.

But what happens when you use makeup beyond its recommended shelf life? This blog explains whether expired makeup can cause infections, the signs that a cosmetic may no longer be safe to use, which products require extra caution, and how proper storage and hygiene can aid to reduce the risk of skin and eye infections.

Why Eye Makeup Is Riskier Than Other Cosmetics

Eye makeup, including mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow, requires extra care because it is used around one of the body's most sensitive areas. Eye makeup carries a higher risk of irritation, injury, and infection if products become contaminated or are used incorrectly. Sharing cosmetics, using old products, or failing to keep applicators clean can increase the possibility of introducing harmful microorganisms around the eyes^[2].

The FDA also cautions that cosmetic applicators may accidentally scratch the cornea, particularly when makeup is applied while travelling in a moving vehicle. Additionally, some colour additives permitted in other cosmetics may not be approved for use around the eyes. Certain products, such as kohl or products containing prohibited colour additives, can pose additional risks. Following eye makeup safety practices, including avoiding shared products and replacing old cosmetics, can help reduce these risks^[2].

Store testers pose an even greater contamination risk because multiple people use the same sample product. If you must sample cosmetics at a store, use only single-use applicators.

How Long Does Makeup Really Last?

No single expiration date applies to all makeup. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the shelf life of a cosmetic depends on factors such as the type of product, how frequently it is used, and how it is stored. However, manufacturers are responsible for ensuring their products are safe^[1].

Over time, exposure to air, moisture, heat, sunlight, and repeated contact with hands or applicators can cause cosmetics to deteriorate. Preservatives may also lose their effectiveness, allowing bacteria and fungi to multiply. Changes in colour, texture, smell, or consistency can therefore indicate that a product is no longer suitable for use.

Products that are repeatedly exposed to microorganisms, such as makeup applied with fingers or applicators, may also deteriorate more quickly. Cosmetic formulas can break down over time due to factors such as sunlight exposure, humidity, and temperature. Eye cosmetics generally have shorter shelf lives than other products because of the sensitive area they contact^[3].

What Kinds of Infections Can Expired Makeup Cause?

Bacteria living in contaminated makeup can cause several types of infections:

• Pink eye (conjunctivitis): Contaminated or old makeup may contribute to eye irritation or infection, including pink eye^[4]. Symptoms may include redness, itching, discharge, and discomfort.
• Styes (hordeolum): Styes are reported more often in women, and frequent eye makeup use has been suggested as one contributing factor, since it can block gland ducts^[5]. These appear as painful, red bumps near the eyelid edge.
• Corneal irritation or infection: One common cause of corneal irritation or infection is generally glitter eye makeup, especially for people who wear contact lenses. Larger glitter particles can scratch the eye surface^[6].

Warning Signs Your Makeup Has Gone Bad

Your makeup may be expired or contaminated if you notice any of the following changes:

• Texture changes: clumping, separation, or unusual consistency
• Unusual smell: any off or unpleasant odour
• Colour changes: fading or discolouration
• Different performance: product no longer applies or wears as expected
• Skin reactions: rash, irritation, or redness after use

If you develop a rash or infection resulting from a cosmetic product, report it to the FDA along with signs of contamination such as a bad smell^[7].

Discard any product that shows these warning signs, even if it has not reached its stated expiration date.

How to Reduce Your Risk of Infection From Makeup

Follow these safety practices to protect your eyes^[1],^[2]:

• Wash your hands before applying eye cosmetics, as bacteria on your hands can cause infections if placed in the eye.
• Keep applicators clean: Ensure any instrument you place near the eye area is clean.
• Never share cosmetics: Sharing makeup can be hazardous to you. "Testers' at the strore which are generally shared may likely be contaminated after multiple uses. If you need to test it, use single-use, fresh applicators or cotton swab.
• Store properly: Do not leave cosmetics exposed to temperatures exceeding 29°C, such as in a hot car. Prolonged exposure to high heat may reduce the effectiveness of their preservatives causing bacteria and fungi to grow faster.
• Replace mascara: Discard any dry mascara. Adding water or saliva to moisten it introduces bacteria to the product.
• Beware of products on sale: Certain products past their shelf life may be tampered with, diluted and sold at a lower cost.

Practising good hygiene can help reduce your risk of makeup-related infections

If You Think You Have an Eye Infection From Makeup

If you suspect a makeup-related eye infection, take these steps:

1. Stop using all eye cosmetics immediately
2. Discard any products you were using when you developed the infection^[8]
3. Avoid using eye cosmetics until the area is fully healed^[8]
4. Seek medical care if you experience moderate to severe eye pain, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, intense redness, or symptoms that worsen or do not improve

Pink eye is treatable, and some types can be managed at home without medical treatment ^[9]. However, professional evaluation ensures you receive appropriate care.

Consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of any eye infection

Conclusion

Expired or contaminated makeup, especially eye products, may increase the risk of irritation and infection. Protect yourself by replacing mascara every 2-4 months, never sharing cosmetics, storing products away from heat, and watching for signs of spoilage such as changes in smell, texture, or colour. If you develop symptoms of an eye infection, stop using all eye makeup immediately, discard potentially contaminated products, and seek medical care for severe or persistent symptoms. Developing hygiene practices can go a long way in keeping your eyes healthy.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information provided should not be used for diagnosing or treating health conditions. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis, treatment, and personalised medical advice. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information found in this article. If you have a medical emergency, contact your doctor or emergency services immediately.