Freshen Up Your Makeup

As we transition into warmer weather, now is a good time to lighten up not only our wardrobes but also our makeup kits. Go through your makeup and nail polish and toss out anything that shows clear signs of being too old: oil separation, discoloration, cracking, or an odor that’s just not right.

If you can’t remember when you bought it (last year? last decade?), maybe that’s a sign you should toss it!
 
Next time you buy new makeup, use a permanent marker to write the month and year of purchase on the bottom of the container (If it’s a black container, use a sticker or masking tape, then write on that.)
 
Technically, makeup doesn’t have expiration dates like food does, but products become contaminated with bacteria over time, so it’s best for your skin’s health to keep things fresh. While time recommendations vary, you can use this simple list as a jumping off point and use your best judgment based on your own products.

• Powders: 2 years
• Cream or liquid foundation and concealer: 12-18 months
• Mascara and liquid eyeliner: 3-6 months (I like to order mascara via Amazon’s Subscribe and Save service so a fresh tube comes every 3 months without my having to remember when to get a new one.)
• Eyeliner pencil: 2 years
• Lip products: 1-2 years
• Nail polish: 1-2 years