I’m a stickler for expiration dates. So much so that I find myself tossing things like bread and milk (if the hubbies not around) days before their numbers have been called. (Have you ever caught a whiff of old milk? Gross!) Just like those refrigerator staples, your beauty bag staples can take a turn for the trashcan. Everything from foundation, to powder, to pencils. Not only can they change in color, consistency, and smell, they can become loaded with bacteria. You know what that means…you’ll be on zit patrol! Short of a crushed or crumbled product, it’s tough to know when it’s time to part ways.
Alright, let’s talk about the basics! When should we toss “powdery” things like bronzer, shadow and blush?
A key indication that it is time to toss “powdery” things like your bronzer, eye shadow and blush is when you notice that you’re not getting the desired amount of product on your brushes and it is very difficult to apply them. Another key indication that it’s time to replace them is when you notice that they have turned dark in color.
How about “liquid” cosmetics, like foundation, cream blush or facial lotion?
I find that any liquid or cream make up tends to either dry up, or starts to change in its consistency (sometimes curdles). Always play it safe when it comes to applying your skin care products and makeup. Use the proper brushes and applicators. Try not to use your fingers in your facial creams, liquid makeup, cream blushes and eye shadows to prevent any bacteria from getting into your products.
What about pencils, like lip liner and eyeliner?
When it comes to lip liner and eyeliner pencils, you will know when it’s time to replace them because they tend to dry out and make application very difficult. These products usually have a long shelf life, so to see if they are really “old,” try your makeup pencil sharpener and get to a fresh part of the pencil. This should be achieved relatively quickly with a few twists of the sharpener. If not, then it is a clear indication that they have dried out and it’s time to replace them.
TIP: Gel liners can get a little more life squeezed out of them by adding a few drops of oil when they start to dry up, give a little stir and your good to go.
When is it time to ditch mascara and lip gloss/lipstick?
There is nothing like going to apply your favorite lipsticks or lip glosses and finding them all dried out. This will have us running to replace them! Otherwise, if you are using and cleaning your lip products on a regular basis, there should be no problem. I recommend cleaning them once a week at most. Take a little bit of toner on a tissue and gently wipe your lipgloss and lipstick applicators. I find that replenishing your mascara every 3 months will ensure that it does not dry out and clump.
How do you know when it’s time to throw out makeup brushes?
It is time to replace your old makeup brushes when you notice that the hair from your brushes is shedding when applying your face powder, blushes and eye shadows. This is a clear indication that they are showing their age. This is not normal wear and tear if it’s happening on a regular basis.
Speaking of makeup brushes, what’s the best way to clean them?
I find the best way to clean your make up brushes safely is to use baby shampoo. Put just a dime size drop in a jar, fill with lukewarm water, place your brushes in and swish them around for a second. Let them soak for 10 minutes and rinse them under cool tap water one by one. Wring out the excess water from each makeup brush and place them all on a clean, dry paper towel to dry over night. In the morning, they will be as good as new. Just fluff them up a bit on the back of your hand before using to bring them back to their normal feel. Cleaning lip brushes, add a little drop on Olive oil on a wet wipe and wipe your brush back and forth until all colour is out. Then shampoo as above.
What’s the best way to clean your actual makeup bag?
This depends on what your current make up bag is made out of. I always have a breathable, cotton one myself. It’s not only better for your makeup to be carried around in, but it also makes cleaning a breeze. I just throw it in the washing machine and the dryer. Any plastic makeup bags can be wiped down with a damp paper towel. Use a little baby shampoo, rinse clean and leave to dry over night.
