Here’s when to toss your makeup cheat sheet

If you are a makeup hoarder like me you not only fall in love with the packaging but all the gorgeous lipstick colors, highlighter palettes, eyeshadow, foundation, etc., but when is it time to say farewell to our beauty shelf friends that brings us so much joy.

Check out this cheat sheet:

Mascara & liquid eyeliner: Every time you put the wand back into the tube, you’re letting in bacteria. These products have the shortest shelf life. Replace every 3 to 4 months.

Liquid foundation: Stored away from heat, a foundation can remain stable for up to a year. If you have sensitive or acne-prone skin, don’t dip your finger into the bottle. Apply with a brush or sponge, and don’t double dip.

Lip gloss & lipstick: These are less likely than liquid-based makeup to grow bacteria. It’s safe to hold on to them for at least 6 months and the lipstick for a year.

Powders: Unless you notice a funny smell or the color has turned, you can safely use powder-based products for 18 months to 2 years.

Still not completely sure? Read on for more tips.

• If a product is beginning to develop a seriously funky odour, it’s time for it to go. Better to be safe than sorry.
• Nail polishes are no longer good when they begin to separate.
• Makeup sponges can be cleaned after a week of use, but toss them after two. Makeup brushes should be cleaned once a month.
• Make sure the caps to all your products are secured after using, and store makeup in a cool, dry place (not the bathroom). The FDA stresses that “a product’s safety may expire long before the expiration date if the product is not properly stored.”
• This does go both ways, though. Storing makeup in desirable environments, like lipstick in the refrigerator, can keep them fresh after the expiration date.
• Pencil eyeliners and lip liners last longer when sharpened regularly.
• If you have a problem with remembering exactly how old a product is, use a thin permanent marker to write the date that you opened it on the bottom of its case for easy reference.

Sending beauty vibes! 💋