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Knowing when to toss a tube of lipstick takes beauty smarts. After all, not all cosmetics have the same shelf life. Fortunately, lipstick is one of the longer-lasting cosmetics you have in your beauty stash. You can try a storage trick to help prolong the existence of your lip color, but be aware that your lipstick could still fall victim to a short life.
Life Expectancy
The life expectancy of your lipstick is around two years. If your lipstick is organic or natural, the life expectancy may be less. The botanical products used in natural lipsticks may provide the perfect environment for microbial growth. Also, natural preservatives don't last as long as synthetics. Contact the manufacturer for information about how long natural lipsticks should last. If you ever notice a funky or rancid odor coming from your lipstick, trash it. The smell means it's no good.
Does Brand Matter?
No matter if the lipstick you buy costs $50 or $2.99, price doesn't have an effect on its life expectancy, according to information from beauty guru Sonia Kashuk in her comments on the "Rachael Ray Show." In other words, don't buy more expensive lipstick thinking it will last longer.
Keeping Track
Lipsticks don't usually have an expiration date stamped on their case. No matter -- you can take action and keep track of when you first opened the lipstick. Write the date you opened the product on its case. Use a permanent marker for lasting results. A quick look at the date tells you when you need to toss it.
Storage Tips
Make your lipstick last longer by stashing it in the fridge. Lipsticks are at risk for oxidation reactions that can cause their oils to spoil. If you stash them in the fridge, you slow down the process. Be prepared for your lipstick to sweat if you keep it chilled, though. Drops of oil may rise out of the wax. No big deal -- unless you find it hard to apply the lipstick to your lips.
