Back to
Beauty : Makeup

Spring Cleaning: The Beauty Edition

Here, cleaning expert Gisela Lowenstein tells us what to keep, what to toss and, when in doubt . . . what to do!

by Nikki Ostasiewski { View Profile }

Images loading...

Cleaning Expert Gisela Lowenstein

After years in the hospitality business, Lowenstein decided to channel her organization skills into creating an at-home management system called the Glow System. One of her favorite topics? Spring cleaning. We asked for her tips on tidying up our medicine cabinets and makeup bags. Click on for her advice.
DKC

When to Throw Away: Lipstick

Lip gloss and lipstick generally have a life span of 12 to 18 months. If you notice a change in the smell, texture or color before then, toss it.
iStock

When to Throw Away: Nail Polish

It’s safe to keep your lacquer up to 24 months. Just be sure to close the bottle tightly after each use to keep the polish from drying out sooner.
iStock

When to Throw Away: Foundation

You shouldn’t keep your favorite foundation longer than 10 months. Always check the POA (period after opening) stamp on the bottle which indicates how long the product is safe to use. 
iStock

When to Throw Away: Skin-Care Products

Take note of the ingredients in your skin-care products. Natural products tend to have a life span of about six months. You can get away with holding on to products with synthetic ingredients up to two years. 
iStock

When to Throw Away: Hair-Care Products

Shampoo, conditioner and styling tools usually keep up to two years. But if you notice a change in texture or smell, toss them right away.
iStock

When to Throw Away: Blush

Powder-based makeup can last between 18 months and three years.
iStock

When to Throw Away: Mascara

Toss after six months of use.
iStock

Cleaning Tip: Beware of High Temperatures

High temperatures can alter the formula of products and cause them to go rancid. Try to stash your beauty goods in a clean, dry area for the best results.
iStock

Cleaning Tip: Alcohol-Based Formulas Keep Longer

Note that products with an alcohol-based formula have a longer life span.
iStock

Cleaning Tip: Water-Based Products

Products that contain water have a short life span because they attract bacteria once opened.
iStock

Cleaning Tips: When to Toss 101

-Always write the date you purchased the product on the bottle for easy reference.

 

-Cold sore or eye infection? Throw away any products you’ve used in those areas, as the bacteria from the infection can cause. . .reinfection.

 

-Change of color, smell or texture? Get rid of the item stat.

 

Looking for a new spring style? Click here for some inspiration.
iStock
First Published April 1, 2011

What’s your reaction?

Comments

Post new comment

Click to add a comment

MORE SLIDESHOWS:

 

Smart Savings