The contents of your overstuffed vanity and makeup bag are calling you. Can you hear them?! Cosmetics trap bacteria, which means you need to replace them regularly. You can avoid breakouts, eye infections, sties, and skin irritation when you properly edit/toss your makeup.
Cosmetics are not required to have expiration dates. Once you open and start using the product the time starts. When was the last time you went through your makeup bag? Like your clothes, it’s important to go through your cosmetics at least a couple of times a year.
I’ve included tips to refresh your makeup bag – when in doubt what to look for when you edit, when to toss, and brush care.
REFRESH YOUR MAKEUP BAG
WHEN IN DOUBT
Before you begin, group like product items together. Remember to look in your purse, luggage, desk, vanity, and makeup bag.
- Remove any items that no longer suit you or your needs.
- Broken makeup that is making a mess everywhere.
- Toss formulas that have separated, smell funny, or have turned another color.
WHEN TO TOSS
Foundation: 1 -2 years
To keep your foundation germ-free keep your fingers away from the neck of the bottle. Use a clean sponge or drop on the back of your hand. Powder formulas will last you up to two years, and liquid and crème formulations will last up to a year.
Blush: 1 – 2 years
When you notice a change in the texture, it’s time to toss. Powder blush will last up to two years and crème blush up to one year.
Eyeliner: 3 months – 2 years
Always sharpen pencils before each use to keep germs at bay, and they will last longer. Liquid liner needs to be replaced sooner than pencil eyeliner because it’s constantly carrying bacteria to the eye and back to the bottle.
Eye Shadow: 3 – 6 months
Eye shadow is at risk for more contamination because it’s coming in contact with your eyes.
Mascara: 3 months
Replace your mascara regularly to avoid eye infection. If it smells funny or gets clumpy, it’s time to toss it.
Lipstick/Gloss: 1 year
The main thing is to keep them in a cool, dry place (don’t ever leave them in a hot car). If you notice a change in texture, it’s time to toss.
Here’s a handy graphic to save to Pinterest with expiration dates for your cosmetics.
BRUSH CARE
It’s important to wash your makeup brushes weekly to avoid dirt and oil build up on the bristles. This will place the residue back on your skin and can lead to clogged pores and dreaded breakouts. Also, your brushes will last longer if you take care of them with regular cleanings.
- First, rinse the makeup off the bristles of your brush in lukewarm water.
- Fill your sink with lukewarm water and squirt your brush cleaner or baby shampoo into the bowl.
- Swish the brushes around in the water.
- Rinse the bristles under lukewarm water.
- Repeat as needed until the water is clear.
- Lay the brushes on a clean cloth to dry.
*If the hairs of your brush shed or don’t hold their shape, it’s time to buy a new one.
You will notice with regular brush cleanings that your makeup will apply so much easier, along with a nice color application, and your makeup will look flawless!
How often do you refresh your makeup?
Comment below. I’d love to hear from you!
