Keep or Throw?

Storing old make-up can be very tempting for people who don’t want to spend money, for sentimental purposes, by just forgetting to check its expiry date, laziness on sorting them out or for the ones who just couldn’t be bothered at all! Whatever reason there is, don’t blame it on allergic reaction. The main problem is the way make-up has been stored, which could be a health risk and could cost you even more!

When applying make-up, your brush, sponge or puff always has to be clean to the extent of washing it with shampoo on some occasions if you decide to reuse them. Brushes should always be washed and sponges or puffs should be soaked in hot water regularly to avoid transferring germs from your face to the product.

Mascara is another product that could cause irritation. To avoid this, replace (see list) and in between that period, never pump the wand to load the brush as this causes air to be pushed into the tube, which can dry out and contaminate the product. One tip is that when you pull the wand out of the tube; wait to hear the “pop” sound. If you don’t, then it is time go get yourself a brand new mascara!

It is highly important to check the expiry dates when buying or storing make-up of all sorts, which you should find written on the item. Make-up life starts from the time when the product has been opened, so try to always keep track of this to keep a better lifestyle.

How long should you keep make-up for? The rule, when you know that it’s time to discard:

Concealer: one and a half years

Cream Eye Shadow or Blusher: one to one and a half years

Face Powder: three years or slightly longer

Foundation: one and a half years, but note that mineral foundations could last longer

Lipstick or Lip Balm: one and a half to two years

Liquid of Regular Eyeliner: 10 months to one year

Mascara: six months

Powder Eye Shadow or Blusher: two years, but throw if it develops a waxy film over it

If you loose the products’ protecting lids, get rid of them instantly! You are harboring germs and they’ll do you no good!