When should you throw out foundation (powder or liquid) and eye shadow and liner?

First off, if it smells, stinks, has a distinct odor that should not be, throw it away! I am amazed at how long women will keep cosmetics that have a bad odor. Do yourself a favor and trash it.





Another good rule of thumb, if you can't remember when you purchased it, trash it. Makeup should not stir up memories from ten years ago. If your makeup bag does, throw it out!








Oil-Free Foundation: 1 year


Cream or Compact Foundation: 18 months


Concealer: 12-18 months


Powder: 2 years


Blush and Bronzer: 2 years


Cream Blush: 12-18 months


Powder Eye shadow: 2 years Cream Eye shadow: 12-18 months


Eyeliner: 2 years


Liquid eyeliner: 3-6 months


Mascara: 3 months


Lipstick: 2 years


Lip liner: 2 years


Lip gloss: 18-24 months


Nail Color: 1 year


If you are using natural cosmetics, these should be thrown out sooner. Regular cosmetics contain ingredients that do help prolong shelf life. But of course natural cosmetics do not. Please check with your favorite natural store for the information on the cosmetics you love.





My favorite tip to make throwing out your cosmetics a little easier: Buy yourself a Sharpie to keep with your makeup bag. Write your own expiration date on the cosmetics that way you will always know when it is time to replace.When should you throw out foundation (powder or liquid) and eye shadow and liner?
To tell you the truth, I usually don't ever have to throw it away but If i noticed the consistency changing in my liquid foundation I would throw it out. Be sure to keep your makeup clean by using fresh brushes and keeping the lids on them and never share your make-up. I know there is a limit on especially liquid make-up but I don't know what that is. I use mine up in plenty of time and when I buy blushes and eyeshows, they always say that will last you for a long time, so I don't throw them away.When should you throw out foundation (powder or liquid) and eye shadow and liner?
For foundation; you shouldn't keep it longer than 6 months (Water-based formulas last a few weeks longer than oil-based ones)


Eyeliner; also 6 months (bacteria can grow around the tip)


Eye-shadow; 9-12 months (old shadows get chalky and difficult to apply.)
eye shadow- doesnt really turn old. but if it was like your moms from a while, like 5-10 or more years. be careful, it could possibly have a reaction on your skin.


foundation- liquid..when it turns colors like a more yellowee color.....and usually it comes in lil bottles so you can just wait untill your out. or if there is like a 'never ending supply' then throw it away when it starts not blending as well.


powder foundation- something thats good quality like anything from MAC or BARE MINERALS will last you a while. maybe around 3-5 years, but usually by then you will like to buy something new, or order a new formula..


liner, if it liquid, when ever it looks clumpy and looks something like a paste. throw it out!!!


** a lot of the times you will know to your own judgement. so if your bored of it or it doesnt feel or loook the same, theres a hint to give it awy.
foundation- about 6-7 months


eyeshadows- about 1-2 years


eyeliners- about 1 year


mascara- no later then 6 months