Okay…since we exposed ourselves about styling products now would be a perfect time to go over our make-up. We all have a pile of makeup in our drawer that we ‘sometimes’ use, just like the styling products!

Cosmetics do have a shelf life, however, and chances are that blue eye shadow you bought in the 80’s has long expired. Here is a quick guide on the shelf lives of typical beauty products. Keep in mind if you bought any cosmetics with an SPF in them please read the expiration date on the bottom of the bottle.

· Cream & gel cleansers 1 year.
· Foundation Check the ingredients: A water-based foundation will last up to 12 months, oil-based will last up to 18 months.
· Concealer Up to 12 months.
· Powder 2 years.
· Pencil eye liner Should be sharpened regularly. Will last up to 3 years.
· Eye shadow Will also last up to 3 years.
· Mascara This product expires the fastest: Throw out after 4 months.
· Brushes Wash every 2-3 months in a mild detergent
· Lipstick Some experts say 1-2 years. Others say up to 4 years.
· Lip liner Up to 3 years.
· Nail Polish Up to 12 months

Remember, if you didn’t like the color when you bought it, you are not going to like it later. Sephora, Ulta and Target will refund your money, with a receipt, if you don’t like the color on you after you have worn it for a few days. Please don’t keep anything that you don’t like it will just clutter up your bathroom!

Author Michelle Lehman of Organizing Solutions “Clear the Clutter”

Michelle is a Professional Organizer in the Tulsa area. Her articles have been featured in the Tulsa World, The Oklahoman, and The Chicago Post-Tribune.  Michelle appears on Fox23 News DayBreak giving organizing tips and recommendations.

Tags: bathroom, expired make-up, make-up, organizing, shelf life