We've all been there. You're getting ready for a night out on the town and you reach for your favorite mascara, only to find that it's dried up and crusty.

Ugh! Talk about a buzzkill.

But how long is too long to keep a tube of mascara? And is there anything you can do to make it last longer?

We've got the answers to all your burning questions about mascara expiration dates, storage tips, and more!

Read on to learn everything you need to know about making your mascara last.

How Long Does Mascara Last?
The average tube of mascara has a shelf life of three to four months. After that, bacteria can start to grow in the product, which can lead to eye infections.

So if you've had a tube of mascara for longer than four months, it's time to toss it and get a new one.

But what if you only use your mascara a few times per week? In that case, it can last up to six months before it needs to be replaced.

Just be sure to close the cap tightly after each use and store your mascara in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

If you notice that your mascara has changed colors or smells differently than usual, those are also signs that it's time for a new batch. Trust us, your eyes will thank you!

No one likes dry, crusty mascara—not evenPandas. (They have "mascara" pandas?) So if yours is starting to look a little clumpy, don't risk an eye infection—toss it and get a new tube.

But with proper care and storage, your mascara should last three to six months before needing replacement.

Now go forth and lash like there's no tomorrow!