When to toss out that make-up?

OK, so it is nice to hang on to our make-up and beauty items to get that very last drop! In our economy, we really want things to last as long as possible. However, there are times we must close our eyes and TOSS OUT! In reality, some older ones are just adding bacteria to our faces, and bodies. Not a pretty thought!

I am not a chemist, cosmetologist, eye Dr, medical doctor - and the following information should have a disclaimer I suppose. Use your good judgement and in doubt, always ask your own dermatologist, doctor, eye doctor, etc. - I just share some information I have tried to follow and information I have gleaned. Gather your information and just be safe!

Mascara is a huge culprit in adding bacteria to the eye area. As the brush goes in and out daily, bacteria collects on the brush. Yes, only you are using it, however it still gathers bacteria along the way. This can cause redness, and of course that clumping and thickness on the brush. So, itching, redness, even conjunctivitis of the eye can be caused. So, toss out and get a new tube about every two to three months.

Concealer is meant to cover blemishes, redness - not cause it. Have you ever noticed a shifting of color over time? Toss it! Get a new one and don't add the bacteria to your skin. If you have any in powder or stick form, the shelf life can be up to several years but keep a watch on it.

Foundation is something that bacteria just loves! When you use the water-based, oh they are so happy day after day. Once opened and you begin using it, the growth begins. Replace about every 6 to 12 months. Unopened, they can last for several years. Powder foundation is an exception as mineral based, and not mostly water based. Just be safe and check the amount of water-base in your powder foundation. Be safe!

Using the powder foundation? Clean the brush often! They can last for years and years, but clean often with a mild hair shampoo. To dry, let them stand upright and not on the brushes. If using the foundation sponges, toss and get new ones often. They just hold that bacteria.

Cheek color is about the same as the powder foundation. Watch for how much water-base is in for the bacteria to love and grow.

Eye shadow - replace about every 3 or 6 months. Remember, this is going onto your eye. Eye shadow brushes? Clean often and replace when needed.

Eyeliners replace about every 3 or so months. Again, going on the eye and collecting bacteria daily.

Nail polish is something that just does not go bad from bacteria. It may dry up on you, and become thick. Just watch for that.

The icing on the cake - lipstick, lip gloss - They contain little water so bacteria risk is low. Should last about a year, but watch if you have been sick constantly or cold sores. Then what you put on your mouth during that time, gets those same germs. Who needs the same shade for years anyway? Spice it up - buy a new shade!

Be safe - be pretty - and go with confidence!