Stop! Your beauty products may be harming your skin

Whether it is eye shadow or lipstick, we all love to experiment by trying new products.

But have you looked in your makeup bag lately to see just how many products you have collected?

It’s time to grab a wastebasket and put some of these items to rest, once and for all, before they negatively impact our appearance.

Unfortunately, they don’t last forever, and we have to pay attention to expiration dates.

No matter how tempted you get to keep something because you like it or it was expensive, don’t.

They’re old and most likely riddled with bacteria. Bacteria are not skin friendly.

You should wash your makeup brushes on a regular basis to remove bacteria, skin and oils that accumulate, but even then, the bacteria doesn’t end there.

If you apply your makeup with a dirty brush, you run the risk of contaminating the product itself, making it a source for bacteria as well and run the risk of encouraging blemishes, breakouts, rashes or infections.

Here are some simple rules to follow when it comes to discarding products:

What does the package say?

If the manufacturer has offered an expiration date, it is there for a reason. Follow it.

If it smells bad, it’s bad

If something starts to smell a bit odd or rancid, there’s a problem. Throw it out.

Changes in consistency are a sign

If your products have thickened, thinned, turned lumpy or have separated, then it’s time to discard.

Check out the colour

If something used to be blue and now it looks slightly green, there’s an issue.

Changes in colour are usually an indication that your products are deteriorating.

Here’s a guideline, based on average times, of when to toss your products:

Mascara

It should be okay for two to three months, but then it needs to go.

If it’s looking dry or clumpy, it’s time to let it go. Do not risk an eye infection.

Don’t pump your mascara, as this allows air to enter the tube, which can shorten its lifespan even further.

Eye Liner

Liquid eyeliner should last 6 to 9 months at most.

If you notice changes in the product, get rid of it immediately. You don’t want to be lining your eyes with bacteria.

For longevity, use pencils. They’ll last up to two years, as the sharpening helps to remove bacteria.

Just remember to keep the caps on or they could easily become contaminated.

Foundations

For liquid forms, the shelf life range is 8 to 12 months. But beware if the product starts to separate.

Look for foundations in a pump bottle. They’ll last longer, as there are no germy fingertips involved. Always be sure to wash your hands before applying.

Powder forms can typically last between six months to a year.

Powder foundations may experience changes in appearance and texture.

They get dry, hard and can turn a bit flaky. If they aren’t performing well or if they look different once applied to the skin, then it’s time to throw them away.

Blush, Bronzer and Eye Shadow

Liquid and cream forms usually can last up to a year, while powder forms can last up to three years. If the colours are fading or they don’t look the same on your skin, there’s a problem.

Lip Products

Sticks and glosses are the most complex when it comes to determining when to get rid of them.

Once they’re opened and used, you really need to pay attention.

Any changes in smell, texture, or even taste can be an indicator that they’re going bad.

On average, a lip product under the best circumstances can last up to two years.

Be mindful of any health conditions like cold sores or fever blisters.

If you’re using lip products, you can contaminate them after just one application.

A few Top Tips to Remember

. Never share your makeup with anybody.

. Shop for smaller sizes so you’ll be sure to use them up before they go bad. They’re great for traveling with, too.

. Beware of heat and humidity. This speeds up the deterioration and contamination of products.

. Make a rule to freshen your cosmetics yearly.

. Skin irritation and breakouts? Your brushes and makeup could be the problem. Be aware of what you’re putting on your skin.

As always, the healthiest skin is the most beautiful.

A healthy diet, an active lifestyle and a daily skin care regimen can have your skin looking more beautiful and youthful in no time.