There is a lot we can do to spruce up our tired winter looks for springtime, but don’t forget that your makeup bag also needs a thorough spring cleaning.
First, empty out the contents of your beauty tote onto a clean paper towel. Thoroughly examine your bag and decide whether it’s time to replace it or not. If so, you might want to consider visiting your local department store whenever your favorite makeup brand is having a “gift with purchase” promotion. This way, you could buy the items you were already inclined to repurchase, while also receiving a brand new makeup bag full of fun goodies. Sample-size products are not only a great way to try new things, but are also just the right size for women on the go.
If your bag is in good shape, clean it up with a disinfectant wipe – inside and out. If you don’t have a wipe handy, just spray some Lysol onto a paper towel and it will work the same way.
Now that your bag is clean, let it fully dry before you fill it back up.
Take a good look at your makeup. To keep or not to keep, that is the question… Here’s some advice to help you decide.
Powder-based products, such as dry eyeshadows, powders, blushes and bronzers, can safely live in your bag for a very long time. Make sure that you’re using them with clean brushes, because using your fingers can transport bacteria. If these items were traveling with you a lot, some of them might be cracked or broken. They can be easily salvaged. All you’ll need is a Ziploc bag, some rubbing alcohol, a butter knife, a quarter and a small piece of soft fabric.
First, place your broken makeup item face up inside of a Ziploc bag, pushing it all the way into the corner, so you can securely hold it down. Using the rounded handle side of a butter knife, gently crush the particles all the way, down to the pan of the product. Carefully remove your makeup item out of the bag. Wrap the fabric over the coin, securing it with a knot. Dampen the flat surface of the fabric with a small amount of rubbing alcohol. Apply a couple of drops of alcohol to thoroughly moisten all of the crushed particles, so they have the chance to adhere back together. Apply the flat surface of a fabric-wrapped coin to the face of the product and firmly press it down. Set aside your restored item and let it dry for a few hours. Voilà! Your damaged makeup product should be as good as new.
Let’s take a look at the rest of your items.
Mascara should be replaced at least every 4 months. You can toss it whenever it starts to make your lashes look clumpy (unless that’s the look you’re going for). If you like the brush of your old mascara, don’t throw it away. You can give it a thorough cleaning and use it to groom your brows or lashes. Separate wands are strongly recommended, to ensure that you don’t transfer any dead skin cells or bacteria from your brows onto your sensitive eye area. You could store a couple of clean mascara wands in a shot glass or a similar container. Use them to apply castor oil, organic virgin coconut oil or sweet almond oil to your brows and lashes. This will condition them and encourage new growth. Bold, full brows are a big trend for this spring, so frame your face à la Cara Delevingne, Natalie Portman, Keira Knightley and Lilly Ghalichi.
Cream eyeshadow should be discarded approximately every six to eight months. This spring, you’ll have fun getting some brand new cream shadows into your makeup bag, including vivacious shades of Maybelline's Eye Studio Color Tattoo, bulletproof Long-Wear Cream Shadow Sticks by Bobbi Brown and glowing limited edition shades of Illusion D'ombre Long Wear Luminous Eyeshadow by Chanel.
Lipstick and lip liners should be replaced every year. If you use a clean lip brush, instead of applying lipstick directly onto your lips, it may last a bit longer. Note any changes in the product’s consistency, as well as its scent and taste. Those indicators will help you determine when it’s time for a change.
Whether or not your old lipsticks have to go, this season you might be tempted by the bright shades of Maybelline’s Colorsensational Vivid collection. If you prefer a natural, flawlessly feminine look, Laura Mercier’s new Arabesque collection just might take your breath away. Searching for something more edgy? Look no further than Viva Glam Nicki by MAC, a unique lilac lipstick that was created by hip-hop star Nicki Minaj. All proceeds from the sale of this limited edition product go toward helping men, women and children affected by HIV and AIDS. Could there be a more beautiful reason to buy new makeup?
Lip gloss should be replaced every six months. Even though the flu season is currently winding down, here is an important tip to keep in mind. When you’re sick, make sure to set aside any lipsticks/lipglosses you’re using. Once you get well, throw them away. The risk of getting ill because of germy make-up is just not worth the price of any lipstick (even if it’s by Tom Ford).
Liquid and cream-to-powder foundations should be tossed after approximately one year.
Nail polish should be discarded after 1-2 years. This spring, you won’t have any trouble selecting your new shades, such as trendy minty jade and muted gold nail lacquers, as seen in the Yves Saint Laurent Spring 2013 collection. Printemps Précieux spring 2013 collection from Chanel features nail lacquers in luscious shades of orange, plummy burgundy, creamy nude and chocolaty taupe.
Don’t be discouraged if you don’t have the budget to acquire all of these precious gems. This year, American drugstore brands have come up with sensational new products in similar colors, textures and formulations, allowing you to experiment with the latest trends without breaking the bank.
The best way to enjoy the springtime is to be kind towards others, because no amount of makeup can mask an ugly heart. Never forget to share your love and beauty with the world.
Subscribe to future articles by Beauty Examiner Julia Davis
For additional information, reviews and swatches, visit:
Comments