How Long Does Make-Up Keep?

Since we're on the topic of spring cleaning, decluttering, and makeup tips, I thought I'd remind you to give your makeup collection a once over. As much as we love to hold on to them 'til the last drop, that stuff expires and you don't want to brush on a nice layer of germies on your beautiful face. To keep makeup from going bad quicker, store them in cool, dry locations, which means away from the bathroom, and pay attention to the Period After Opening icon. It's a small opened jar with a number followed by the letter "M" signifying the number of months it'll keep after being opened. Below, a general guide for expiration dates:.

Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel: three years
Facial cleanser, moisturizer: six months
Deodorant: two years
Body lotion: two to three years
Anti-aging, acne treatments: three months to a year
Concealer: one year
Foundation: two years
Powder: two years
Blush: one year
Powder eyeshadow: two years
Cream eyeshadow: six months
Liquid eyeliner, mascara: three months
Eye/lip pencil: two to five years
Lipstick, lip gloss: two to three years
Hairstyling products: three to five years
Nail polish: one year
Perfume: two years

Plus, you should clean your makeup brushes regularly to avoid spreading bacteria onto your products. Here's how to clean your brushes, which you should do at least once a month, and seven ways to make your own brush cleaner.

Image: delightedmomma.com