Don't keep your makeup forever

Do your cosmetics last for years? Find out when you should get rid of your lipsticks, foundation and eye shadow and when you can keep them longer
Most of us women are secretly beauty product junkies. We tend to collect the latest lipgloss, foundation or the trendiest new eye shadow and often end up not using it more than once or twice. Applying the right cosmetics can help enhance your beauty, but using old ones could result in skin infections or a rash.Instead of holding onto that lipstick from your teenage years, read on to find out your favourite products expiration date.
Mascara - This is one product that most women can’t live without as it opens up the eye and gives a brighter more defined appearance. Mascara needs to be changed every three to six months. The wand is constantly exposed to air and can pick up and store loads of bacteria. Never share your mascara with a friend or even a relative as you can end up with an eye infection.
Eyeliners and shadows - Again, never share your liner with someone else as you could spread bacteria. Most liners contain wax which keeps them good for a couple of years. If you use liquid eyeliner, it will dry out sooner so avoid using it after it becomes clumpy. Eye shadows can last upto three years.
Lipsticks - Yes, it’s hard to find a shade that suits you, but that doesn’t mean you use the same lipstick for years on end. Lipstick can last for a good two to four years, but keep a check on it. If it starts to smell or gets discoloured, throw it out. You end up consuming some of the lipstick from your lips and don’t want to poison yourself. If you want to improve it’s lifeline, try storing it in the refrigerator.
Foundation - Foundation can be something you don’t want to let go off, since finding the perfect shade is hard. Nonetheless, foundation can get spoilt easily. If you use a liquid or cream-based one, chances are you use your fingers to blend them in, thus making them susceptible to germs. Use a make-up brush or sponge for application and throw it out after a year or little more. If it starts to smell or becomes thick, it’s time to go.
Compact powder - Most powders can be used for a couple of years but always check on the quality. If you let moisture in, it might get cakey. Always store your loose powder away from heat, in a cool, dry space.
Concealer- You should update your concealer within a year or little more. The brush application can breed bacteria and you don’t want to infect your face.