If you still have eye shadow from 1999 and lipstick from the 80s, it’s definitely time to do a clear out!

Like food, makeup has an expiry date. Some products will have their expiry date printed on the packaging, so make sure you throw out the product in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.

If there are no recommendations, here’s a guide on how long you should keep products. We’ve also thrown some hints about how to make your products last the distance.
Foundation: 2 years

Water based foundations should be kept in a cupboard where the temperature is neither too hot nor too cold.

If you use an oil based foundation, shake well regularly as the oil and colour in the mix can separate. The colour will dry out, leaving you with an oily mess
Concealer: 1-2 years

Concealers with a sponged tip or a brush that is dipped into the concealer will have a shorter lifespan (1 year) than one that is squeezed out of the tube (2 years), as the concealer is exposed to more air.

If your concealer does use a sponged tip or a brush, don’t ever double dip, as you’ll make your concealer a breeding ground for germs.

Powder: 1-2 years

Loose powder will last up to two year.

Compact powder will last up to one year. Even if you still have some left after 1 year, throw it out. It’s likely that oils will have permeated the powder, allowing germs to spread and breed.

Lipstick: 1-2 years

The length of time you can keep a lipstick will vary. So long as you are hygienic, and clean lip brushes and applicators regularly, and so long as you don’t double dip, it can last up to two years.

Eye Shadow: 2 years

Make sure you always keep your eye shadow free from moisture. That means always applying with a dry brush or sponge.

Pencil liner (for both eyes and lips): 3 years

Because these are wax based, germs don’t tend to breed readily. Always check the packaging and keep your brushes clean.

Mascara and liquid eyeliner: 3 months MAXIMUM!

If you have had your mascara for more than three months, throw it out immediately. You may as well just have a big sign on your face saying ‘Eye infection waiting to happen’.

To keep things hygenic, don’t double dip and always clean the applicator thoroughly after use.

It may be hard to throw out cosmetics, but it will be even harder to cover that skin breakout or explain to that hot guy you fancy why your eye is a festering mess. Better to be safe than sorry.

And, this way, you get to spend more fun time at the cosmetic counters!