Nail Polish
Shelf life: Two years.
Store it: In a cool, dry place.
Toss it: If it becomes thick, if the color turns or starts to separate, or if off-color polish doesn’t look better after a good shake.
Foundation
Shelf life: A year if it’s water-based; about 18 months if it’s oil-based.
Store it: Keep the lid tightly closed. Always use a sponge, not your fingers, to apply it.
Toss it: If you notice a change in color, smell or consistency.
Mascara
Shelf life: Three months.
Store it: Never use water or saliva to thin out mascara — that can encourage bacteria growth. Don’t share mascara or touch anything but your lashes with the brush.
Toss it: If it smells funny or becomes dry or difficult to apply.
Shadow and Blush
Shelf life: Two to three years for powders; one year for creams.
Store it: Keep products dry, and clean brushes often.
Toss it: When powder crumbles, or when cream changes texture or smell.
Eyeliner and Lip Liner
Shelf life: Six to 12 months for liquids; two to three years for pencils.
Store it: Keep bottles tightly sealed; sharpen pencils to expose a fresh point before using them.
Toss it: Replace liquids if you notice a change in smell, color or consistency. Pencils should go when the tip looks white or becomes too dry or if the product smells.
Perfume
Shelf life: Three years from the date of manufacture for fragrances that are unopened and stored in a cool dark place.
Store it: Keep fragrances tightly sealed at all times. Open perfume or cologne allows evaporation which can alter the delicate ratio of your fragrance.
Toss it: Replace regularly. Fragrance breaks down over time so plan on replacing perfume and cologne on a regular basis.
