Keep Your Makeup Fresh! Notes from a San Francisco Bay Area Dermatologist
Most people do some sort of “spring cleaning” around this time of year with the clothes in their closet, but what we often forget to sort through is our makeup drawer. Facing all those old lipsticks, eyeshadows and blushes of disappointments past can easily make you want to keep that drawer shut. Now is the time however to get rid of the old and bring in some new, especially because makeup can harbor bacteria and become spoiled even before its expiration date, especially if not properly handled and stored.
Here are some guidelines to help you get started on lightening your load and keeping your skin and makeup more healthy.
Mascara: Mascara should be discarded after 3 or 4 months, even if the tube is not empty. It is a favorite home of bacteria. Also, just twist the brush in the tube to wet the applicator. Pumping the wand only dries out the mascara more quickly.
Eyeshadow: Powder eyeshadows can last up to three years if not exposed to moisture - like using water or spit to double its use as an eye liner. Better to purchase a thin, flat brush for this purpose and use it dry instead.
Eye Liner: Can also last up to three years, but should be sharpened after each use.
Lip Liner: Also can last up to three years if sharpened regularly.
Blush: Six months.
Concealer: Up to one year.
Powder: Pressed powders can last up to two years.
Foundation: Water based foundations are good for up to one year, whereas oil-based up to a year and a half. Also, use applicators like makeup sponges to apply instead of your fingers.
Lipstick: I generally hold onto lipstick for one to two years. After that the color can sometimes change and bacteria tends to grow. If the lipstick has a funny smell throw it out!
Brushes: Wash your brushes every couple of months or whenever they become saturated. Use a mild shampoo or makeup brush cleanser, rinse, squeeze out excess moisture, reshape and allow to dry overnight before use. Not only will your this extend the life of your brushes, but your makeup will go on better and colors will stay true as you won’t mix shades.
Liner Sharpeners: Wiping it down with rubbing alcohol or leaving it for a few minutes in a rubbing alcohol bath, will keep this tool clean.
Other common sense, but sometimes overlooked tips include washing your hands before applying your makeup and taking time to properly close all compacts and bottles. Use a sharpie to write the date you purchased your makeup on the label. Time goes by quickly and something like a less often used shadow will hit 3 years old before you know it. These steps will greatly extend the health of your makeup. If you have any makeup that has changed color, texture or has a funny smell, discard right away.
I always prefer the use of mineral based makeup like that made by Jane Iredale and Colorescience. Because of their high mineral content, they are even more hygienic and their colors are beautiful. You can find both brands at our office. Stop by and see what new colors would be right for you!
Tags: bacteria, bay area dermatologist, colorescience, eyeshadow, jane iredale, liner, lipstick, san francisco dermatologist
This entry was posted on Sunday, April 11th, 2010 at 4:12 pm and is filed under Beauty, Products, Skin Health. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
