I always thought that makeup never expired and I could use it until it was gone.  That is so not the case.  If you can go through your makeup bag and find eyeshadow that’s 3 years old, then it is really time to throw out the old and bring in the new.  Also, if you’ve had an eye infection, throw out everything that you used on that eye and replace it!  Old makeup can be home to several infection causing bacteria.  So, when should you replace it?

Mascara: Replace every three months

Eye Makeup: Liquid products should be replaced every six months and powder shadows and pencils should go after a year.

Blush: Replace every year or if it starts to flake or clump on you

Liquid Foundation/Concealer: Replace every six months or if the liquid is separating or begins to have a funky smell to it

Loose Powder: Replace every year

Lipstick: Replace every two years, Replace if the color changes, Replace if it begins to smell funny, Replace if you notice that little oil beads are forming on it

Nail Polish: Throw away any polishes you have that have separated (Keeping it in the refrigerator or microwaving it DOES NOT prolong its shelf life)

Now, go to your makeup bag and go through it.  Throw out whatever is too old.  Some of it may be a bit expensive to replace, but it could save you a trip to the doctor, which could be even more costly.  Nobody likes bacteria!