Spring Cleaning!

Does your make-up drawer look like this?

While Mother Nature doesn't seem inclined to let us experience spring any time soon, at least we can make the best of the extended time spent indoors!  Here are some tips for "spring cleaning" your hair and beauty products.

To Toss Or Not To Toss?

If you're anything like us, you've likely got a collection of make-up that you can't remember the last time you wore it!  While it may not have an expiry date on the bottom, make-up has a shelf life.  It's a great idea to write the date you opened the product on the bottom of it, too.  These guidelines start from the day you open the package, and the product should be tossed if it's been open longer than the following list.

Powders & Eye Shadows - 2 years
Cream Eye Shadows - 12 to 18 months
Foundation & Concealer - 1 year*

*Water based foundation expires after a year, oil based can last up to 18 months.
Lipstick & Lip Liner - 1 year
Mascara & Eyeliners - 3 months 

Storage Solutions 

Make-up should be stored in a clean, dry space with little to no humidity (so the bathroom isn't the best idea) and out of direct sunlight.  Sunlight can break down the preservatives in products, causing them to expire more quickly, and warm, moist air or steam helps bacteria multiply.  Storing things like lipstick and perfume in the fridge can help them last longer.  An added bonus - if summer ever gets here, your chilled scent feels refreshing in the heat.

Switch It Up

Sure, the seasons haven't changed yet, but we can dream, can't we?  It's time to take stock of which products to switch out as the seasons change.  Creamy winter moisturizers should swap out for lighter lotions (with at least an SPF 30!) and moisturizing shampoos and conditioners can be replaced with lighter versions to enhance summery waves.  Keep in mind that skin tones change with the seasons too, and be sure your foundation doesn't look like a mask!  Try a tinted moisturizer instead.

Trends To Try

Spring make-up trends are showing up now on the runways.  Brows are back, with a fuller shape than in the past.  Remember, full doesn't mean bushy!  Brows frame your face, so keep them neat and groomed.  Lashes are full and flirty, and pastel shadows are taking over.  For more of an evening look, swap the cat-eye winged liner for smudged lines, or rock a red lip.  Both of these looks are best paired with a neutral face, so pick one or the other to avoid looking like you're playing dress-up.