Makeup - To Keep or Not to Keep

When someone begins thinking of organizing, many questions can pop into their thoughts. Every once in a while we will select questions from our readers and share our response with you.

Q: What is the appropriate age at which to throw out cosmetics & toiletries?

Since these items are usually expensive, I hate to throw them out if they haven't been used up. I always have a large collection of bottles/jars/compacts, yet I only use very few on a daily basis. What do I need to know to clean out my stash? Barb, IL

A: Have a Makeup Clean Out Day!

Any color you have found that you do not wear at least once a month should be thrown out.  In addition, here’s a quick guide on the shelf lives of typical beauty products, listed in alphabetical order. (Taken from Vanguard online.)

• Concealer - up to 12 months.
• Eye shadow - up to three years.
• Eye liner - should be sharpened regularly and will last up to three years.
• Foundation Check the ingredients: A water-based foundation will last up to 12 months, oil-based will last up to 18 months.
• Lip liner - up to three years.
• Lipstick - up to four years, but if it smells rancid, throw it out, it’s spoiled.
• Mascara - throw out after three months.
• Nail Polish - up to 12 months, depending on the quality and how many times you apply it.
• Powder - up to two years.

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