13 Do’s and Don’ts of Storing Vintage Makeup Collectibles

Storing vintage makeup collectibles requires careful attention to preserve their quality and value. Whether you are a collector or just someone who appreciates the beauty of old cosmetics, it is important to handle them with care. The right storage methods can help protect both the product and its packaging from damage. On the other hand, improper storage can lead to fading, cracking, or other forms of degradation. Proper storage not only helps maintain their appearance but also keeps their value intact.

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Keep Makeup Away from Direct Sunlight

Exposure to sunlight can cause the pigments in makeup to fade and break down. It is best to store vintage makeup in a cool, dry place where the light does not touch it directly. Even a small amount of sunlight can alter the original colors and textures of makeup products.

Ensure that your vintage makeup is stored in boxes, drawers, or cabinets that protect them from natural or artificial light. UV rays can cause irreversible damage, leading to cracks in compacts or fading in the packaging. Protecting the items from light is one of the most effective ways to maintain their value and appearance over time.

Avoid Storing in Humid Environments

Humidity can affect vintage makeup by causing mold to grow and damaging the packaging. Moisture can seep into powders and cream products, making them unusable or dangerous to use. To prevent this, keep your makeup away from areas like bathrooms or basements, where moisture levels are higher.

Choosing a dry storage area will help maintain the integrity of your collectibles. Using moisture-absorbing packets or dehumidifiers can also help control the environment. This simple step will ensure that the makeup remains in excellent condition for many years to come.

Use Air-Tight Containers

Air-tight containers are crucial for storing vintage makeup because they help prevent exposure to air, which can lead to oxidation. As makeup comes into contact with air, it can dry out, change in texture, or even develop an unpleasant odor. Using sealed containers ensures that these products stay in their original state for as long as possible.

Consider using glass jars or plastic containers with secure lids to protect delicate items. Properly sealing the containers will also help preserve the original fragrance of perfumes or powders. Air-tight storage is essential for maintaining the quality of your vintage makeup over time.

Do Not Stack Heavy Items on Top

Stacking heavy items on top of your vintage makeup can cause the packaging to become crushed or warped. Vintage packaging is often made of delicate materials, and pressure can lead to dents, cracks, or other forms of damage. Be mindful of how you arrange your makeup, especially if it is in original packaging.

Make sure that your makeup is stored on shelves or in boxes where it is protected from weight or pressure. Avoid placing items with fragile packaging underneath heavy products. By being careful with how you store your items, you can avoid unnecessary damage to your vintage collection.

Keep Makeup Away from Extreme Temperatures

Extreme temperatures can significantly affect vintage makeup, whether too hot or too cold. Products may melt, solidify, or even separate if exposed to fluctuating temperatures. It is crucial to store makeup in a stable temperature environment to maintain its original consistency and longevity.

Choose a place that maintains a constant temperature, ideally between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Avoid storing your makeup in areas like attics, garages, or near heaters, where temperature changes can be drastic. This will help protect your items from heat and cold damage.

Store Products Upright

Storing makeup products upright can prevent leakage or spills. Especially with liquid or cream products, storing them in an upright position ensures that they stay in their original container and do not spill or leak. This simple storage method will help maintain the integrity of the product.

For items like lipsticks, lip glosses, or foundations, keeping them upright will also prevent them from coming into contact with dirt or debris. Consider using makeup organizers designed to hold products in an upright position for easy access and protection.

Clean the Packaging Regularly

Over time, dust, dirt, or oil from your hands can accumulate on the packaging of your vintage makeup. Regularly cleaning the exterior of your makeup products will help maintain their appearance and prevent the buildup of grime. However, avoid getting the actual product wet when cleaning.

Use a soft cloth or brush to gently wipe away dust and dirt from the packaging. If you need to clean more thoroughly, use a slightly damp cloth, but make sure the item is dry before storing it. Regular maintenance of the packaging will ensure that your makeup stays in good condition.

Avoid Using Makeup That Is Too Old

While vintage makeup can be a collectible, it is essential to be aware of how old the products are. Some makeup items, such as lipsticks or powders, can deteriorate over time, even if they are not visibly damaged. Always check for signs of expiration before using any vintage makeup.

Look for changes in texture, color, or scent that could indicate that the makeup has gone bad. If you notice any unusual changes, it is best to avoid using the product for safety reasons. Keeping track of the age of your makeup items will help you preserve their value.

Do Not Expose Makeup to Perfumes or Strong Scents

Strong scents, such as perfumes or other fragrances, can alter the smell and integrity of vintage makeup. If you store your makeup near strong-smelling products, the makeup may absorb those scents, which could reduce its appeal as a collectible.

Ensure that makeup is kept away from any products with overpowering smells. This includes avoiding storage in areas where scented candles, air fresheners, or perfumes are kept. A neutral-smelling environment will help maintain the original scent and condition of your makeup.

Avoid Overhandling Makeup

Excessive handling of vintage makeup can lead to damage, especially if it is applied frequently. The oils and dirt from your fingers can transfer to the product, which can alter its appearance or make it less appealing. Limit the number of times you handle or open the makeup to preserve its condition.

Whenever you need to touch the makeup, make sure your hands are clean. Consider using tools, such as makeup brushes or spatulas, to apply the product instead of using your fingers. This will keep your collectible items in the best possible condition.

Keep Makeup in a Controlled Environment

A controlled environment with stable humidity and temperature levels is essential for preserving vintage makeup. Avoid extreme environmental fluctuations, such as changes in moisture levels or air pressure, which can affect the quality of the products.

Consider investing in a storage unit or safe that can be kept in a temperature-controlled room. This will help protect your makeup from any environmental factors that might cause it to deteriorate.

Avoid Storing Makeup in Overcrowded Spaces

Overcrowding your storage area can lead to unnecessary pressure on the products, which may cause them to break or become damaged. Be mindful of how you organize your makeup collection to avoid excessive packing.

Make sure that there is enough space between each product to prevent them from coming into contact with each other or from being crushed. Proper organization will help you easily access your items while keeping them safe.

Store Makeup in a Dry, Ventilated Area

While humidity should be avoided, proper ventilation is still essential. A dry, ventilated space allows the makeup to breathe and helps prevent any moisture buildup that might cause harm. Choose a storage location with good airflow to keep your products in optimal condition.

A well-ventilated space will also prevent any musty smells or mildew from forming, which can be particularly damaging to vintage products. Ventilation ensures that your makeup stays fresh and unaffected by excessive moisture.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.