If I ask myself when the last time I went through my makeup bag was, the answer is, “too long ago.” I know cosmetics have shelf lives, just like many products. So why don’t I purge them more often? I thought long and hard about it, and decided that—for me, at least—the answer lies in the role makeup plays.

In my life, cosmetics live somewhere between skincare and fashion accessories. The products that are more like skincare–products I use every day that are part of my routine–I tend to use, run out, and replenish. The products that are more like fashion accessories–seasonal lipstick shades or the eye shadow bought for a specific dress–tend to take up drawer space for years if I’m not careful. So, as I prep for a big purge, I did some research on make-up guidelines. Let my research inspire you!

Shelf-Life Guidelines

Foundation: 6 months – 1 Year

The general rule of thumb is that powder foundation lasts longer than liquid. If you use powder, keep your brush clean with CLn SportWash or CLn BodyWash. (Read more on brush cleansing later in this post.) If you use liquid, pour the product onto the back of your hand or a brush for application. Keep the rim of the bottle clean.

Lipstick & Gloss: 1 Year

To make the product last longer, store it in a cool, dry place (even on the move). If you notice a change in texture or smell, it’s time to toss out that gorgeous shade.

Eye Pencils: 1 Year

As you sharpen your pencil, remember to clean your sharpener. Rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide can work germ-killing wonders with a little soak time.

Mascara & Liquid Liner: 3 Months

These liquid products tend to dry out and clump up, requiring frequent replacement.  They also come in close contact with your sensitive eyes. Set a calendar reminder to replace these products regularly. Toss right away if you notice a change in odor or have had a cold or eye infection.

Blush: 6 months – 2 Years

Like all liquid products, replace liquid blush with more regularity. Powder blushes last a long time with proper hygiene, but shouldn’t be kept for longer than 2 years. Same goes for bronzers or powder contouring sets.

Eye Shadow: 3 – 6 Months

Even if you use powder shadow, you’ll want to replace this product regularly since it is placed directly above your eyes. Also consider using disposable applicators or brushes that can be washed frequently.

Other Ways to Keep Your Makeup Routine Clean

Apply Makeup on a Clean Face with Clean Hands

Before you apply anything to your face, start with a clean slate. CLn Facial Cleanser won’t bleach clothes or towels, and is gentle on skin. When you apply makeup to a clean face, you’re less likely to pass bacteria back to your products. Win!

Wash Your Brushes Every 1-2 Weeks

Add a dime-sized amount CLn SportWash or CLn BodyWash to a cup of water, and mix. Wet your brushes in the solution and massage thoroughly into the bristles and handles of your brushes for at least 60 seconds. Pat the excess water out with a clean towel, reshape the brush heads, then leave in a well-ventilated area until completely dry. Tip: don’t lay your brushes on a towel to avoid mildew.

Don’t Share

Makeup is fun. But catching an infection from someone else is not. We all have our own individual microbiome (microorganisms specific to a particular environment) and they are best not shared. Everything from Staph to Herpes can be transmitted via makeup. Keep this in mind at the makeup counter, too. Watch carefully to see how products are sanitized before they are applied to your gorgeous face!

I hope these tips help you as much as they are going to help me. I love my makeup, but a big purge + cleansing is on my to-do list for this evening.

The post What They Don’t Teach at the Makeup Counter – Makeup Guidelines appeared first on CLn® Skin Care Blog.

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