The beautiful warm spring weather can have a real rejuvenating effect, putting us in the frame of mind to clean, tidy and de-clutter.
So why not spring clean your makeup bag?!
Over time, even the best makeup products (yes, even our favourite Jane Iredale cosmetics) can become breeding grounds for bacteria – which is not good for your skin at all, causing irritation and infection.
Should They Stay or Should They Go?
This spring take some time to go through the makeup lurking in your cosmetics bag, or under your bathroom sink. Here’s a guide to help you decide if it’s time to throw them out:
- Mascara and eyeliner – Three to four months, or if it’s started to dry out – whichever occurs sooner. Otherwise, rather than enhancing your look, you could end up with pink eye, styes, an eyelid infection, blepharitis, dry eye syndrome or even damage your cornea.
- Liquid foundation, tinted moisturiser, BB creams – The ingredients in these products usually remain stable for about a year.
- Lipstick and lipgloss – experts suggest getting rid of them after about 18 months or two years (unless you’ve already used them up!).
- Eyeshadows – also have about a two year life span.
- Concealer – up to two years.
- Powder-based products (pressed powder, blush) – As soon as you notice deterioration or a funky smell, or after a year or maybe two. One of the things I love about Jane Iredale powders, is that they have been formulated so that bacteria won’t grow and contaminate them, so they are usable for a full two years.
Most products will last longer if kept in a cool, dry environment – NOT in your bathroom – yet that is where many people store them.
And don’t forget your makeup brushes. Ideally you should be cleaning them regularly – every couple of weeks. Use a mild shampoo to wash the brush part only, then rinse until the water runs clean. Gently squeezing out the excess moisture and placing on a towel to dry, minimises hair loss from the brushes, and helps them to retain their shape.
Spring is the season of renewal and new growth – just don’t let it be the bacteria in your makeup!
If you would like some tips on applying or using makeup, or just need to replenish your supplies after your clean out, make sure you book an appointment with me soon.
