How do they justify 'shelf life unopened'?

[Totally Loopy Lou]

I’m sure I’ve heard people say - including on QVC, although that may be just to get you to buy more! - that mascara should be replaced every 3 months? (Ie throw it away and buy new one 3 months after opening)

Of course it is going close to or even in to your eye.
And I know a product containing water (as opposed to a powder etc), makes it easier for bacteria to multiply, but it does sound (very!) excessive!
I’ve used mascara that is a good couple of years old, and have put it in mug of warm water if it dries out.
Is that awful/criminal?!

I read somewhere that if the mascara no longer “pops” when you stick the wand in and out, it’s gone!

 

[donna255]

No Loopy Lou, that is not criminal. I had heard people saying they do that when it goes dry on them. Don't pop or pump the brush in and out you get extra air which will dry the mascara out.

I remember buying an expensive Chanel mascara which dried out in less than a month! Never bought a Chanel one again.

 

[grovesy]

Smell would not work for me as I have little sense of smell!