As we enter the time of spring cleaning, don’t forget to go through your cosmetics. Many times we don’t think that our lipstick or moisturizer should be tossed after a certain date but they do expire. Bacteria and other critters can live and thrive on old products. Here are some dates to consider when going through and clearing out. Also, by placing a tiny sticker with a purchase date on the product will help for future clean outs.
Liquid & Cream Foundation–3 to 6 Months
All Powdered Makeup–1 Year
Mascara–3 Months
Lipstick, Lip Gloss & Lip Balm–1 Year
Eye & Lip Pencils–1 Year
Cleansers & Moisturizers–6 Months
If it seems like all your cosmetics have expired and replacing it all isn’t as fun as you thought, here are a few suggestions.
1. Buy Multipurpose Makeup
One of my favorite natural products is a lip and cheek stain by SukiColor. (SukiColor discontinued their lip and cheek stain, yet a new favorite of mine is by Vapour Beauty.) You can even use the color on the eyes. They give the skin a beautiful glow and can be applied and blended easily with your fingers. It is tiny enough to carry with you throughout the day, and by adding a coat or two of mascara you have a complete yet simple Minimalist Beauty look! Another great chemical free lip and cheek stain is by 100% Pure. You can also use a natural lipstick in a rich shade to stain lips and as a cream blush.
2. Samples, Samples, Samples
If you love having more than one or two shades of eye shadow or blush yet it seems pointless to buy a full size, then not use it all before the year is up, buy samples. Many mineral makeup lines are offering samples of the colors since they are online with few retail locations. You can even ask for samples at some cosmetic retailers.
3. Get A Smaller Makeup Bag
If your bag is smaller, you won’t feel the need to have so many products. A Minimalist Beauty makeup bag could consist of concealer, powder, blush, mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow, and lip stick/gloss. Add a few extra colors to your makeup bag just for fun!
Great skin care is key for any makeup look. By focusing on your skin care you will feel free not to have to use cosmetics to hide behind only to enhance. Check out my favorite skin care items on my article on rhassoul clay and tamanu oil. Also, don’t forget to protect your skin from excess sun exposure. (Check out some great natural sunscreens here.)
(Image by D Sharon Pruitt)
Lorraine Emerick says
I use the Once Opened Beauty Expiration Kit to date my products. I found out that common permanent markers are not resistant to oils found in creams and make-up and shouldn’t be used to mark-up products (smudges off). The kit’s self laminating labels solve this problem. Kit comes with self laminating labels in a pretty pink pouch, ultra fine point mini permanent marker and a cosmetic life expectancy guide in a nice keepsake box. Check it out.
onceopened.com