Overhaul Your Makeup Bag, When is the correct time to dispose of old makeup and beauty products?

When is the correct time to dispose of old makeup and beauty products?    It varies from product to product.  Here are some helpful hints to follow.

Lipstick- Many women have a large variety of lipsticks and glosses.  Most crème and liquid products have been designed to fight off bacteria for six months; so after a product has been opened, you’ll have about six months before it’s time to say goodbye.   If you’re using a lipstick or gloss regularly, you should be able to finish it before the expiration date, but if the products get a clay-like odor, it’s time to throw it out!

Eyeliner and Lip liner pencils- Always keep the cap tight on these products and sharpen them between each use.  This will add to the life of the pencil by shaving off the area that has been exposed to bacteria.  If your pencil start to dry out and won’t easily move across the skin or is flaky and breaks, it’s time to replace it.

Mascara- Because mascara is placed so closely to the eye, it’s a very good idea to replace it every four weeks.  Don’t “pump” your mascara.  This dries it out and also pulls bacteria in.  Simply dip it in the case, twist and pull it out.  You can get very bad eye infections and cysts from old mascara, so be diligent about replacing it.  If you’re using it daily, it will probably need to be replaced in four weeks anyway.

Foundation- Liquids and crèmes should be kept no longer than four to six months.  Always use a clean sponge when applying crème foundations and never leave the sponge in the makeup casing.   You’ll know when a foundation is bad because it will have a pungent odor or in the case of liquids, the pigment will separate and it will have the appearance of oil and muddy vinegar.   Powder foundations will last longer only if you do not place an oily application sponge on the product.  If the powder has a slick looking surface it is time to replace it. 

Blush and Eye Shadow- Powder blush and eye shadow can keep very well as long as the brushes you use are clean.  Never use a dirty, makeup filled brush.  This will add oil and bacteria to the product and it will not apply and move easily over the surface of your face or eye.  Once a blush or shadow has a slick surface, it’s time to purchase new items.  Only use the applicator tips and brushes that come with these items once and then dispose of them.  To get a professional look, you’ll need professional tools. I will discuss professional tools and how to take care of them later in great detail. 

Now your assignment is to start your fall makeup box cleaning.  Good luck!