These 8 makeup products to change regularly… and you don’t do it often enough!

Like all everyday consumer products, makeup also has a maximum duration of use. And it’s important to replace it (or clean them, for brushes, for example), more often than you think.

Nine out of ten products are contaminated by bacteria

Indeed, according to the conclusions of a study published in 2020, nine out of ten makeup products are contaminated by bacteria such as E.Coli or even staphylococci. “Several times a year I meet patients who consult for a acne breakouta conjunctivitis or styes that can be directly linked to a makeup product” explains American dermatologist Noreen Galaria, in an article published by Well and good.

Here are the most used makeup products

Among the makeup products used, there are some that deteriorate more quickly than others. Here are eight, and how often they should be replaced (or cleaned)

Makeup brushes

Makeup brushes retain dead cells, but also sebum from your skin every time you use them, without forgetting of course the remains of the product that you apply to your face with them. “This buildup can cause rashes and skin irritation.” says dermatologist Blair Murphy-Rose. Once a week, give them a good bath, letting them soak in warm soapy water and letting them air dry afterwards, after rinsing. And when their hairs start to fall out or become damaged, it’s time to replace them.

Beauty blenders and makeup sponges

These sponges are useful for spreading products such as foundation or concealer evenly on the face. But be sure to clean them regularly. Dermatologists recommend doing this every two weeks, again using warm water and soap. And if it’s a disposable version, “it must be thrown away after use” recalls Dr. Galaria.

Mascara

Mascara is generally kept for several months at a time, because it is (wrongly) believed that its container is airtight. In fact, it is recommended to change it once every three months, although some brands have a longer shelf life.

Liquid, cream or gel eyeliners

Along the same lines, eyeliners, whatever their texture, should be replaced every season, ideally. “Any other moisture-rich products that regularly come near your eyes should be replaced along with your mascara” recommends Dr. Murphy-Rose. “Eye pencils can last longer if you sharpen them regularly and wipe the tips with a little alcohol to sterilize them.

Micellar water

These types of cleansers remove impurities from the skin, but can quickly become colonized by bacteria. It is therefore recommended to store the bottle in a cool, dark place. But six months after opening, you will need to replace your micellar water.

Products in jars (lip balms, cream blushes and face creams)

Any jarred product that requires you to open the lid and use your fingers to scoop some out can turn into a breeding ground for bacteria pretty quickly. “There is an increased risk of contamination – compared to products dispensed by pump or tube – because they are exposed to air and micro-organisms with each opening.” explains Dr. Murphy-Rose. “To keep germs to a minimum, consider using a disposable or washable applicator instead of your fingers and wiping the jar rim and lid with alcohol weekly.”

Liquid foundation

Foundations kept too long”can oxidize over time, changing consistency, color or odor“recalls the expert. It is therefore recommended to change it every year. To remember this, you can note the opening date on the tube. “And throw it away if it shows signs of change in texture, coloring or an unpleasant odor.”.

Lipstick

Lipstick can “collect bacteria from the lips or mouth“recalls the dermatologist. It is therefore recommended to change it once a year. You can too”sterilize them every other week by immersing the tip in alcohol for a few seconds before wiping it gently with a tissue. she concludes.

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