02 June 2010

Makeup Shelf Life

We all have some makeup we found that we no longer know if it’s any good or used the same foundation for awhile and even had nail polish sitting in our room for decades. It's now time to keep up with the shelf life of your makeup. We definitely don't want to see our glow girls putting anything that’s harmful (bacteria and infections) to them on your beautiful faces, hands and toes.  Here is a little guide to help you keep up with your products.

First off, there are a few obvious signs that you know it’s probably time to throw your beloved fave makeup away.
  • If you start smelling any distinct odors... I understand the color may not be made anymore but let it R.I.P.

  • The color is off.... You remember having a red lipstick and it now looks blue, that’s a pretty darn good sign its time.

  • Natural products in many cases should be thrown out a little faster than you would other products. Extra ingredients are added to prolong the shelf life, so keep watch on your natural products.

  • If you don't remember when you purchased it..... Okay some of us have bad memories (like myself) but if it’s something you seen around in your makeup bag a long time and you have no clue when it was purchased (unless you found the receipt) introduce it to the trashcan. You never want to put something old on that beautiful delicate skin of yours. Rule of Thumb: Make little stickers or a list with the dates you purchased your cosmetics and keep it somewhere safe. 
From the good folks at iVillage, here is a simple guideline to cleaning out your makeup bag.

  •  Foundations/Blush/Concealer: 12 to 18 months. This is definitely a wise rule especially for those of us who use compact foundation; you want to keep the possibility of any bacteria getting to your makeup.  Personal Rule: 6 months, I prefer keeping my foundation powder fresh; take no chances if you have the resources to trade out.
  • Eye shadow: 12 to 24 months.  Again, I prefer switching out 6 months if possible.  If you continue to use eye shadow daily, pleaseeeee clean your brushes you don't want to attract bacteria to your brushes and eye palettes lady.
  • Mascara: 3 Months. This is probably one of the most important ones to watch out for. You must remember this product dries out and this could lead to infection and we don’t want your eyes to look all gross.
  • Nail Color: 1 Year. If you are putting  nail polishes in a safe places then you should be fine.

More Tips

  • Wash your brushes. Many will tell you 2 to 3 months, but I say every week!!!
  • If you use sponges with your foundation discard of old sponges monthly.

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