Let’s face it—there’s a hoarder in all of us. We keep miniature lotion samples so we can use them for our next holiday, skimp on expensive moisturizers so that they’ll last longer and only use our Chanel nail polish on special occasions. But when it comes to keeping everyday beauty items, how long is too long? We seek advice from the experts.

In the Bathroom

“Typically, shampoo and conditioner are good for 12 months after they’re opened, and up to three years when they’re not,” says Chie, director of Base Station salon (Isetan Tampines, #01-21 Tampines Mall, 4 Tampines Central 5, 6782-2493). Janet Lim, a representative from the popular Beauty Emporium store (2/F Bl. 8D Dempsey Rd., 6475-7375), says that “for most facial and body care products, the shelf life is about 12 to 24 months after opening.” She adds, “As a rule, most companies test their deodorant products for a shelf life of two years.”

On the Face

“Liquids like foundations and concealers normally keep for up to 12 months,” says Clarence Lee, makeup artiste at Oblique (176 Telok Ayer St., 6222-2825). Of course, if you notice inconsistencies in the product such as changes in texture, color or smell, toss it out immediately. Blushers may last up to two years, assuming you and your girlfriends don’t share. Beauty blogger Renee Lorentzen insists that mascara should be dumped after three months. “With makeup, if the applicator comes into direct contact with your fingers, skin or eyes, it’s probably not a good idea to keep it for long. Also, the mascara wand traps a lot of bacteria and you don’t want any of that near your eyes!” she warns. Lipstick, on the other hand, can last for two to four years and even longer when properly stored. “Some lipsticks, like those with purple undertones, start to smell more quickly than others. The trick is to not overestimate them. Do a quick check before applying,” Lee recommends.

In the Cabinet

“Vitamins and prescribed medication all have varying shelf lives, as recommended by the manufacturers,” says Ng Hong Yen, senior pharmacist at the Singapore General Hospital. “However, if you start noticing color changes, abnormal specks on tablets and cloudiness in otherwise clear liquids, throw the medicine out even before the expiry date. To maintain quality, store medication away from places like the stove or the oven, and moist spaces like the bathroom,” Ng advises.

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