New Year Makeup Clean Up: When Should You Throw Away

As the New Year approaches, it’s the perfect time to not only set new resolutions but also give your makeup collection a fresh start. Just like decluttering your life, a makeup clean up can bring a sense of rejuvenation and excitement for the upcoming year. Here we explain why a makeup clean up is a fantastic idea for starting the year off fresh.

Declutter Your Collection

As we say farewell to the past year, take a moment to look through your makeup stash. Throw out expired products and say goodbye to that mascara that has started to dry up and has seen better days.

Making space for new and fresh items not only keeps your makeup bag organized but also ensures the products you use are at their best. Check expiry dates on products like mascara, liquid foundations, and cream eye shadows. If it's beyond its time, it needs to go.

Cleanse and Organize

A clutter-free makeup space is liberating. There is no better feeling than having a good clean of your makeup space.

Wipe down surfaces, clean your brushes, and categorize your products. Invest in storage solutions like makeup organizers or drawer dividers to keep everything in its place. A space that is organized not only looks appealing but also makes your beauty routine more efficient. Make sections for different product categories – face, eyes, lips – to streamline your routine.

Rediscover Hidden Gems

During your clear out you might find some forgotten treasures; a lipstick shade you bought on a whim or an eyeshadow palette at the back of your drawer. Give them a second chance to shine. This can add variety to your collection without spending a dime.

Keep it Simple

Make your makeup effortless by incorporating multifunctional products. Choose a versatile tinted moisturizer that combines skincare benefits with light coverage, or a lip and cheek stain for a quick pop of color. Streamlining your collection not only saves time but also reduces the number of products you need in your makeup bag.

How Long Does Makeup Last?

The lifespan of makeup can vary depending on the type of product, its formulation, and how it's stored. Here's a general guideline on how long different makeup products typically last before they need to be replaced:

1. Mascara

3 to 6 months. Mascara has a short lifespan due to its liquid formula, constant exposure to air, and the risk of bacterial contamination. To maximize its usage, avoid pumping the wand into the tube, as it introduces air and can lead to drying.

2. Foundation

- Liquid foundation 6 months to a year

- Powder foundation up to 2 years

Liquid foundations are prone to bacterial growth over time, while powder foundations can last longer if kept dry and well-sealed.

3. Lipstick

1 to 2 years. Lipsticks can last a relatively long time, but their shelf life depends on factors like formulation and exposure to air. Regularly sharpening pencil lip liners helps maintain freshness.

4. Eyeshadow

- Liquid eye shadow 6 months to a year

- Powder eye shadow 1 to 2 years

Powder eye shadows have a longer lifespan as cream or liquid formulations can dry out or separate more quickly.

5. Eyeliner

- Liquid or gel eyeliner 3 to 6 months

- Pencil eyeliner up to 2 years

Pencil eyeliners have a longer lifespan as liquid and gel eyeliners can dry out and lose their smooth consistency sooner.

6. Blush and powder products

Up to 2 years. Powder-based products like blush, bronzer, and setting powders generally have a longer shelf life.

7. Concealer

Up to 1 year. Liquid or cream concealers should be replaced after about a year, as they can harbor bacteria.

These are general guidelines, and the actual lifespan can vary based on factors like the product's ingredients, how it's stored, and how frequently it's used. Always pay attention to any changes in color, texture, or smell, as these can indicate that a product has expired. If in doubt, it's better to be cautious and replace the product.

When is makeup not safe?

Expired makeup can pose several risks to your skin as the effectiveness and safety of the products may deteriorate over time. Depending on the type of makeup, the dangers may vary. Here are some general guidelines:

Bacterial growth: Expired makeup – especially liquid or creamy products like mascara, foundation, and eyeliner – can become a breeding ground for bacteria. Using these products past their expiry dates may increase the risk of skin infections, irritations, or other reactions.
Changes in texture and smell: If a product changes its texture, color, or odor, it’s a sign that it’s gone bad. Using these products may lead to irritation.
Sunscreen effectiveness: Products containing SPF such as moisturizers or foundations may lose their effectiveness over time. This can leave your skin unprotected from the harmful effects of UV rays and increase the risk of sun damage and aging.
Mascara and eyeliners have a shorter shelf life due to their proximity to the eyes. Expired eye makeup can contain bacteria which increases the risk of eye infections or irritation.

To avoid any unwanted irritations or infections, make sure you: