When is it time to trash your make-up?

A few simple guidelines can keep your make-up bag safe and bacteria-free.

We have all heard the adage that "all good things must come to an end" and this sentiment should apply to your make-up bag, too. Keeping cosmetic products past their prime is a recipe for disaster in terms of bacterial build-up and potential skin irritation.

Let's start with mascara. The truth is that mascara has the shortest shelf life and should be thrown out after three months. Mascara becomes a bacterial breeding ground from the moment you first use it. After three months, you risk a potential eye infection.
Eye pencils and creamy eye shadows should be replaced after six months.
The good news is that powder eye shadow can last up to three years, but some experts recommend throwing out powder blushes and shadows after a year. Really, if you still own an eye shadow after three years, it might be time to move on.
Cream blusher is another product that needs to go after six months.
Foundation and concealer have a shelf life of one year, but you should consider throwing it out after six months. When in doubt, perform the look and sniff test. If anything appears or smells off, out it goes!
Other products with a one-year shelf life are lipstick and pressed powder. Throw them out if they change texture, consistency or colour.

Always wash your hands before applying your make-up and try not to share make-up. Wash your make-up brushes at least once a week to prevent infection. Now, throw out that make-up, shed a tear and go shopping!