Bought old mascara

For the second time I've bought mascara from 2 different stores that's old and clumpy. I sent L'oreal an email and Chris responded very quickly. But he said I must return it to the store that I bought it from which is far from where I live (I was there on business). I rep**** on his email stating my problem and got no response. So now I've got the choice of using the old mascara, buying new ones or driving back to that store which will cost me more than new mascara. I feel that L'oreal should have better quality checks in place. I love the products, but I need something that is more reliable.