December is the time of year when we are saying "Out with the old," right? Well I definitely think that’s also true for makeup as well. I try to take stock of my cosmetics about this time of year and see what I’ll be keeping with me in the new year and which will need to be updated or replaced. Once that’s established I give it a good organizational update as well. Here are some great tips on how to declutter and organize your make-up.
1) Declutter and get rid of expired items: As always we start with a good decluttering. Are you familiar with general makeup expiration dates? Here are a few that you should be aware of: - Mascara: 3-6 months, to get the full 6 months, experts recommend NOT pumping your mascara, as it allows air into the tube which dries the formula quicker as well as allowing in more bacteria. - Powders: blush and eyeshadow (powder - type cosmetics): 1-2 years, these last the longest of most cosmetics, but if the color or texture changes at all, it’s time to let it go. - Eyeliner: 6 months-1 year, gel and liquid lasts 6 months due to re-dipping into a pot but a pencil will last longer.
- Primer and Foundation: 6 months - 2 years depending on the packaging, 6 months for a pot due to bacteria but a pump or tube can last up to 2 years.
- Lipstick: can last up to 2 years, but if the color, consistency or smell changes it’s time to toss
2) How to store your cosmetics: - Vertical: as with most everything, I encourage vertical storage. You can get palette dividers to store your flat palettes upright so you can see them all at once, which is always key with efficiency. They store well both in a drawer or in a medicine cabinet depending on depth.
- Division: another vertical storage idea is one that separate your tubes. Here is a clear acrylic one that can separate lipsticks, mascaras, and glosses.
- Cups: with brushes I like to store them brush end up together in a cup or small vase.
3) Travel make-up- I have miniature versions of all of my makeup and toiletries. That way when I travel, I just grab the case instead of having to pack the “grown up” versions. It alleviates the problem of waiting until the last minute to pack your makeup. PRO TIP: this works as a great backup if you happen to run out of an item before you get to the store as well.
Peace, love and labelmakers!
Megan
about | space www.aboutspaceorganizing.com megan@aboutspaceorganizing.com C. 718.909.9290 O. 501.503.1634
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