How to Store Makeup & Skincare for Longer
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Ever had your favourite moisturiser turn funky way too soon? Or opened a lipstick only to find it’s gone off before its time? We feel you. The truth is, your makeup and skincare aren’t just at risk from bad formulas—they’re also at the mercy of how (and where) you store them.
At KOLD, we’re all about keeping your beauty routine cool, clean, and chaos-free. So here it is: your go-to guide to storing makeup and skincare properly—for longer shelf life, better performance, and less waste.
Why Storage Matters for Beauty Products
Heat, humidity, and bacteria are the trifecta of doom when it comes to product lifespan. Whether you’re a makeup minimalist or a skincare maximalist, poor storage can:
- Break down active ingredients
- Change texture, colour or scent
- Increase the risk of contamination
- Reduce product effectiveness
- Lead to skin irritation or breakouts
And no one wants that.
1. Keep It Cool—Literally
Most makeup and skincare products are happiest in a cool, dry environment. Heat can degrade ingredients like vitamin C, retinol, and SPF, making them less effective (or straight-up useless).
Enter: KOLD—Australia’s first insulated makeup & toiletry bag. Our signature aluminium-lined interior helps protect your products from sudden temp changes, especially on hot days, road trips, or long-haul flights. Think of it like a mini beauty fridge—but portable.
*Perfect for: serums, lipsticks, cream-based products, and anything that says “store in a cool place.”
2. Avoid Direct Sunlight
Leaving your products in the sun (ahem—car dashboard, beach tote, windowsill) is a fast-track to spoilage. UV exposure can change a product’s formula and mess with pigments, especially in foundations, lipsticks, and SPF.
✨ Tip: Store products in a dark drawer, makeup bag, or your trusty KOLD bag for on-the-go sun protection.
3. Seal It Tight
Air = oxidation = shorter shelf life. Always make sure lids and caps are sealed properly after use. Bonus points for choosing airless pumps over jars where possible—they keep fingers (and bacteria) out.
4. Clean Storage = Clean Skin
Bacteria loves warm, damp places—like the bottom of your bathroom bag. Keeping your makeup bag clean helps reduce contamination, skin flare-ups, and product degradation.
🧼 KOLD’s anti-bacterial, wipe-clean lining means one quick swipe with a damp cloth keeps things hygienic (and looking fresh).
5. Separate Your Tools & Liquids
Brushes and tools should ideally be stored separately from liquid or cream products to avoid cross-contamination. The KOLD Mini comes with a bonus internal pouch so you can keep things neatly separated (because no one wants a mascara wand cuddling up to a lip gloss).
6. Don’t Store Makeup in the Bathroom
Yep, it’s convenient—but also humid, and that’s bad news for your beauty stash. Moisture can breed mould and bacteria in both skincare and makeup. A climate-controlled room or insulated bag is your best bet.
7. Check Expiry Dates & PAO Symbols
Look for the little jar icon on your products—it shows how many months it’s good for once opened (called the Period After Opening). Store your products well, and you’ll get the most from their shelf life.
Final Thoughts
Storing your makeup and skincare properly isn’t just about being neat—it’s about keeping your products effective, safe, and lasting longer. The better you store them, the more glow you’ll get for your buck.
✨ Whether you're travelling, commuting, or just getting ready in the morning, KOLD’s insulated makeup bags are here to keep your beauty essentials cool, clean, and protected.
Ready to give your products the VIP treatment?
Shop our full range of KOLD insulated makeup & toiletry bags—because your beauty routine deserves better than a sweaty pouch or a soggy bathroom drawer.
👉 Shop Now