That yellow face paint from last Halloween might seem like the perfect finishing touch for this year’s costume — especially if it’s been sitting unused in your drawer since your Pac-Man debut. But dermatologists and makeup artists say reaching for old products could come with hidden risks.
While reusing makeup might feel both budget-friendly and less wasteful, expired products can cause irritation, infection, or even skin damage. And with many Halloween cosmetics sold online or at seasonal pop-ups, experts say the dangers can go beyond expiration dates.