Spring Clean Your Beauty Stash

I love it when it gets to this time of year; the evenings get lighter, the chill eases (a little) and you can feel that spring and summer are just around the corner. I recently had a huge wardrobe declutter and donated three bags worth of clothes to my local charity shop. I am definitely the opposite of a hoarder and I love a good clear out, so the next on my to-do list is my beauty stash. If you're in the mood for a spring clean, these are the questions that you should be asking when it comes to keep or throw?

How long has it been there?

When it comes to make up, they may not have as much life in them as you think. As a rough guide:

Mascaras should be thrown after 2-3 months after opening¢ Liquid and gel eyeliners have around 3 months, while powder eyeshadows should last 6 months once opened.

Any liquid or cream base products (foundation, concealers, blushers, etc.) should be kept for 6-12 months.

Powder formulations (foundations, setting powders, etc.), lipsticks and nail polishes can last between 1-2 yearsFrom being opened, make up products develop bacteria, so these dates should be kept to quite strictly.

When it comes to skincare, it can vary depending on the key actives included, so always check the packaging and instructions when you open. When things are kept sealed, you can usually have them happily sitting on a shelf for anything up to a year (again, check individual products for more info, plus see how they are best stored), so if you order in bulk, don't open it until you're ready to use it.

Do I use it?

This is always a tough one, but it's important in a clear out. That high-end lipstick in stunning packaging that isn't your shade? The exfoliating face mask that everyone swears by but it doesn't work for you? Although you may want to try and persevere, leaving it in your cupboard is not only gathering dust, but it may go well past its use-by date without you realising if it's just sitting there. If you don't use it and love it, it's time to get rid. Try donating to a friend or relative who will get the use and love out of it. And who knows, they may return the favour in their next clear out!

Streamlining your regime

If you bathroom cabinet is full and your daily regime seems to taking longer and longer, it's time to streamline. Instead of separate make up removers and cleansers, opt for one that does both. If you're using multiple serums to give your skin its daily anti-ageing dose, let us mix these in with your moisturiser for a one-product-does-all.

There are plenty of ways to cut down a busy regime and our experts can find the best solution for you.

Call our free advice line on 0113 282 7744 to get started.

Written for you by: Ellie Face the Future