We all have that one product that we’ve had for years (or a couple… guilty). Although it’s in the worst condition imaginable and doesn’t even perform the same, you’re too attached to it to let it go. Though we hate to be the bearer of bad news, it’s probably time to toss those old products for good. Here’s how to know when!
Foundation and Concealer
Time Frame: Maximum of 18 months
- Water-based formula: 12 months
- Oil-based formula: 18 months
Indicators:
You know it’s time to toss that old foundation or concealer when:
- It starts to separate
- The formula is streaky, uneven, dry, or smells off
Tips:
- To make your foundation or concealer last the longest, store them in a cool area and shake them up regularly to prevent the ingredients from separating.
Powder, Blush and Bronzer
Time Frame: 2 years
Powders are the longest-lasting cosmetic products, so you don’t have to worry about these as much! You’ll probably hit pan before it’s even time to throw them away.
Lipstick
Time Frame: Maximum of 2 years
Super attached to your favorite lipstick (or LiveGlam KissMe lippie?). No worries, you’ve got 2 years to rock these babies!
Indicators:
You’ll definitely know it’s time to toss your lipsticks because of the change in texture, color and smell. They’ll likely become dry or goopy, and the shade will be off.
Tips:
- Spray your lipsticks with alcohol to keep them sanitized, and always keep the cap on.
Mascara
Time Frame: 3-6 months
Trust us, we know no one wants to toss their favorite mascara after 3 months. However, your pretty eyes are very sensitive and delicate, and you should toss your mascara after 3 months of everyday use, or 6 months of occasional use to avoid bacteria and eye infections.
Indicators:
You’ll know it’s time to part ways when your mascara gets very clumpy and the formula smells off.
Tips:
- Don’t pump the mascara wand to get more product out. It lets air in, dries out the formula, and lets in bacteria.
- If your mascara is on the dry side but doesn’t need to be tossed yet, you can revive it with drops of baby oil.
Eyeliner
Time Frame: 1 year
Pencil eyeliners last a long time because they’re constantly being sharpened. Smoke out those eyes or define that waterline with your pencil for up to a year before hitting the can!
Liquid Eyeliner:
Time Frame: 3-4 months
Similarly to mascara, you need to be extra careful with liquid eyeliner because of the bacteria on the applicator. Replace it after 4 months at the latest to ensure a sanitized makeup routine!
Gel Eyeliner:
Time Frame: Maximum of 6 months
Gel eyeliner lasts longer than liquid eyeliner, but you should replace it after 6 months because bacteria can easily get trapped in the pot.
So, now that you know when your makeup actually expires, go through your collection and have a winter cleaning session! Which products are you guilty of keeping way longer than you should? Mine is definitely mascara.
Stay glam!
xoxo
Lanie Edwards