Spring clean your make-up bag
All those products that have been living in your make-up bag for years need to go, go, go, says Shevelle Rhule.

Have you had a look in your cosmetics bag lately… I mean, really had a look? All those products that you bought on a whim and never wore could well be past their sell-by date. It’s very important to spring-clean your make-up bag every now and then if you want to avoid sties, common eye infections and even spots. On the plus side, you can just look at it as the perfect excuse to buy lots more goodies!

cracks in your Foundation
It can be quite difficult to know if your cosmetics are past their sell-by date. Often you have to rely on your senses (eyes and nose) to know when to bin something. Foundations tend to last an age, especially if you alternate between your winter and summer shades. The rule of thumb is: water-based foundations are designed to last around a year, while oil-based ones can be used for up to two years. Concealers should also last up to a year, but try to avoid using them directly on your spots since this can lead to further outbreaks elsewhere on your face; using a brush or sponge will prevent the spread of any potential infection.

real Lippy
Lipsticks and lipglosses generally have a shelf life of around two years; however, you must be very careful of infections. If you suffer from cold sores while using a lipstick or lipgloss, you must throw it out immediately. Also, be sure to wash your hands before and after applying make-up. The best course of action during the infection period is to use a lipstick brush and wash it regularly. Be sure to keep all your cosmetics away from direct light and heat, since this simple gesture can prolong their life.

cool Varnish
If stored properly, nail varnish can last up to two years. It’s best not to dilute it, since the results are usually less-than-perfect-looking nails. The best home for polishes is actually the fridge! As soon as it gets lumpy… you know what to do: bin it!

Eye Eye
Pencils and powder and cream eyeshadows will last for years. However, once again, be careful of any potential eye infections you may have caught while using these products. Mascara is the product that should be replaced  most regularly – once every three to six months, in fact. Look out for changes in its texture; if it has become lumpy, you should buy a new one. The same applies to liquid eyeliner. It’s also important not to share your mascara, since the wand contains a host of bacteria, including the cause of conjunctivitis, which is easily transmitted.

Brush up
When deciding on how long to keep the tools in your make-up bag, use your common sense. If it looks like it’s seen better days, bin it. Also try to wash your brushes every two weeks with baby shampoo and conditioner to keep them soft and in good condition.