When to throw out make up

Be careful! Most beauty products don't have an expiration date, but they do go bad. Periodically purge your medicine cabinet, your bag or wherever else you have makeup tucked away. Here's when to throw it out:

Mascara - after 3-6 months

It's especially important to change mascara often (even if you have some left). Air can push bacteria into the tube and cause an eye infection.

Eyeliner - after 6 months

Even if you sharpen your eyeliner every week to keep it fresh, bacteria can still grow around the tip. You'll know it's there when the pencil starts to crumble as you're sharpening it.

Foundation - after 6 months

Water-based formulas last a few weeks longer than oil-based ones.

Eye Shadow - after 9-12 months

Old shadows get chalky and difficult to apply.

Blush - after 1-2 years

If your blush breaks, throw it out right away -- and don't salvage the chunks -- they'll be difficult to blend and will look caked on.

Lip Color - after 2 years

Replace lipsticks earlier if you notice oil beads on the side or the color looks different when you apply.