Happy New Year's, kids!  It's time to start the year fresh and the best place to start is by doing a sweep of your makeup bag and bathroom cabinet to clear out old and funky products.  Not only will this prevent clutter and potential infection (ick!), it will allow you to make room for new cosmetics and body products (yay!).

A good rule of thumb is if it smells questionable, toss it.  Humidity, temperature changes, and the level of preservatives can effect the longevity of makeup and bath and body products, and when in doubt, throw it the heck out.

Here's a handy checklist:

• Mascara should be tossed every 3 months, as it breeds bacteria like no one's business.  If it's dry and clumpy, introduce it to the trashcan. 
  
• Lipsticks, glosses, and balms will typically hold for anywhere from 1 to 1 1/2 years, but be sure to throw it out if it smells different or changes color.  That's a sure sign that it's past its prime.  In love with the shade and it's discontinued?  Don't sacrifice your health for the long kiss goodbye with your favorite shade.  Send me an e-mail at luca@welovelollibomb.com and I may be able to do a custom lip color for you!
• Liquid and cream foundations get a bit tricky, especially if you use your fingers to apply as this introduces bacteria into the product.  Typically, 6 months to 1 year is the expected lifespan of these types of products.  An oil-based foundation will last a bit longer.
• If you've made the switch to mineral powders for your foundation, blush, and bronzers, your cosmetics will hold for a good 2 years before you'll need to toss it.  This is yet another benefit of going the powder route, and if you haven't tried it for yourself, there's no time like the present to treat yourself to a new makeup goodie!  Visit my Etsy shop at lollibomb.etsy.com for a full selection of mineral cosmetic products, or my website at www.smellpretty.com.

Wishing you and yours all the best in the new year,

Luca