Been using the same tube of mascara for the past year? It might be time for you to get rid of it. Sadly, even cosmetics have a lifespan and are not immune from expiration. To practice better make up health for your skin, here is a helpful guide that breaks down the shelf life of each product in your beauty cabinet. Eyeshadow, fortunately, is one of the beauty products that does have a longer shelf life. It can last up to three years, but if you find that the shadow is crumbling everywhere and does not apply smoothly, it is time to toss it. Powder can last up to two years, while concealer is good for only twelve months. Read Are Your Beauty Products Expired? to improve your make up health knowledge and understand exactly what cosmetics should be tossed out and when.

Depending on the type of foundation you have, the dates for throwing out your old products may differ. For good make up health, this is the most essential because foundation covers a large area of your skin on a daily basis. A water based foundation can last up to a year, while an oil based foundation can last for up to eighteen months. If you find that your water based foundation dries out before it expires, just add a few drips of water or alcohol free toner in order to keep it moist. You should discard makeup sponges on a regular basis, while it is essential to wash your make up brushes every few weeks in order to remove bacteria and make up. Lipstick can last up to four years but if you notice that it smells funny, it would be a good decision to chuck it. Last but not least, mascara should be switched out every four months since it tends to dry out faster and is applied to your eyes daily, which can harbor lots of bacteria. Check out 9 Unnecessary Skin Care Products for a list of products that you can do without.