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Model Coco Rocha Keeps Her 17 Year Old Lipstick: When to Toss Yours Out

Model Coco Rocha Keeps Her 17 Year Old Lipstick: When to Toss Yours Out

According to The Huffington Post, America’s Next Top Model contestant, Coco Rocha, likes to hold onto her keepsakes. Apparently Rocha still owns a lipstick that her mother gave her when she was six … yuck.

“I hold on to a lot of things too — I still have my first lipstick that my mom gave me when I was six or something. It hasn’t been used for many years, but I kept it because it was such a cool memory,” said Rocha.

While it’s great to hold on to memorable items and family heirlooms … there’s a fine line that should be drawn when keeping perishable items. We’re glad Rocha doesn’t actually use this 17 year old lipstick, so it’s only right to provide a reminder of how long you should actually keep your makeup and when it’s time to toss it out.

Lipstick and Glosses

Shelf life: 4-12 months
Tip: You’ll know a lipstick has gone bad when it gets hard and you can’t spread the pigment on your lips. Lip gloss will feel streaky and globby if you try to apply it.

Powders and Concealer

Lifespan: One year
Tip: If there is a change in color or if the powder contains an odd scent, it’s time to replace it. Concealers in powder and stick form can last for up to two years, while liquids should be tossed after one.

Liquid Foundation

Shelf life: Six to 12 months
Tip: Foundations that have an airtight seal or pump can last a few months longer than those that are in an open container, such as a compact. Keep foundations out of moist environments, like your steamy bathroom, and away from heat, which can encourage the growth of bugs and speed up spoilage.

Blush

Shelf life: One to two years
Tip: Blush has the same rules as powder. Cream blush should be replaced after a year.

Mascara

Shelf life: Three months
Tip: You should be most vigilant about mascara. Lingering bacteria from old mascara can cause redness and itchiness, or even pinkeye and sties.

Eye Shadows

Shelf life: Three months
Tip: Sounds like a short period of time, but research shows that because shadows are constantly in contact with a mucous membrane, there’s a higher risk of transferring bacteria to the product, and then back to your eyes.

Eyeliner Pencils

Shelf life: One year
Tip: Remember to continually sharpen the stick of your pencil eyeliners so that bacteria doesn’t settle on it.

Makeup Brushes & Beauty Tools

Your brushes can last you years if you take care of them properly and keep them clean. When the bristles start to fray or fall out, it’s time for a new set. Clean them every two weeks with gentle baby shampoo and store them propped upright in a container.

Bonus Tip:

Lookout for the jar with the number inside, on your products. It represents the the item’s shelf life. Ex: 24 months

Just remember … if any products are drying out, smell funny, start to turn weird colors, or get crumbly, then it’s time to replace them.

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