How old is too old?

Keeping old makeup is not only not practical but also not hygienic. Old make up will dry out, become clumpy or split and can also cause breakouts or irritated skin. If you have had it for years please, please throw it away!! And while you are at it, check the condition of your make up sponges and brushes.

• Mascara has a shorter life – after 3 months and it needs to go……….and please don’t share
• Foundation and Concealer - Up to 12 months.
• Powder 2 years.
• Pencil eye liner and lip liner - Should be sharpened regularly and will last up to 3 years.
• Eye shadow will also last up to 3 years.
• Lipstick some experts say 1-2 years. Others say up to 4 years. What will let you know its past its use by date is by the smell. If it smells bad it has spoiled.

To avoid infection and bacterial growth, remember to wash your sponges once a week, and replace every couple of months. Wash you’re brushes at least once a week also with a gentle cleanser. Try using baby shampoo, otherwise most make up brands do sell brush cleaner.

Storage

Storage doesn’t have to be an expensive option. Places like the Plastic Box in Newmarket has so many amazing storage options (you can’t go in there without wanting to label and organise everything you own). Choose a couple of box sizes to create the set up that works best for you. Start with a box for your essentials, occasion make up, and tools like sponges, cotton pads etc. Tumblers or finished candle jars are the perfect option to fill in as a brush holder. I was lucky enough to be given a Cire Tredon candle as a gift, once finished the jar has become the perfect home for my brushes. If you do have the tools of the trade but don’t know how to use them, or would just like to get better and faster at applying your make up. Make up lessons are a great way to learn how to use your brushes and all the tricks to make up application.