As we welcome a new year it's time for fresh starts, renewal and self love. So, what better place to start than having an over-haul of your vanity?! You probably got some nice new beauty treats for Christmas and it may be a *littttttle* overdue to throw out some of your older products, so join us today in finding out the shelf lives of some of your most-used products to keep your skin safe, clean and glowing!

EYES

MASCARA; Mascaras have a shelf life of 3-6 months, this is due to the fact that they are used around the eyes which can be very dangerous if bad bacteria comes into play. Not only this, but the product itself will begin to be flakey and dry after this time too - do not try to extend the life of your mascara by adding water! 
EYELINER; Again, liquid liners will be best to be used within the first 3-6 months. Pencil liners are best used within a year but you can keep them more hygenic by sharpening them regularly to remove any bad bacteria transferred from your skin.
EYESHADOW; Your powder shadows will last a good 2 - 3 years, just be sure to keep your brushes clean so that your shadows don't harbour any nasties from them!

LIPS

LIPSTICK; Lipsticks will last 2-3 years before they need to be thrown out, just be sure to keep the lid on and remember if you have any cold sores then be extra careful not to wear your fave lippy or it could get contaminated and lead to recurrent skin issues.
LIP GLOSS; Again, your lip gloss will keep for 2-3 years. Many lip products contain oils which bugs and bacteria don't like meaning they keep better, but if you notice the colour beginning to change or if it smells odd then bin it before this time frame
LIP BALM; Lip balms will generally last up to a year but keep an eye on your tin balms before this time as of course your fingers being repeatedly dipped into them can cause the product to breed bacteria easily.

BASE

FOUNDATION; Your foundation will be at its best for the first 12 months, after which it can begin to grow all kinds of bacteria which is, of course, disastrous for your skin. Pump foundations will be more hygienic than pan ones as you will eliminate the need to repeatedly dip a brush, fingers or sponge into them and stop the transfer of bacteria, but even still after 1 year the product can begin to separate, go thick and even the shade can be affected meaning it will no longer match your skin tone!
Powder products like BRONZER, HIGHLIGHTER and BLUSH will last for around 2-3 years thanks to the dry nature of the, even still you shouldn't forget that the constant use of brush into product onto skin and back into product will inevitably lead to a build up of nasties and therefore could also lead to skin problems so its best to ditch the product within its shelf life.

- Try to store your products in a drawer or cabinet to stop them being exposed to sunlight and to keep them safe from being knocked over and broken.
- Make sure to close lids and replace caps on your products to keep any bacteria getting in and spreading.
- Always throw out products after having an eye infection.Even if they're brand new. It seems a shame but your eyes are precious and its not worth the risk.
- Wash your brushes regularly to stop the risk of bacteria and germs transferring from your skin into the product and breeding.
- Avoid buying products which are packaged in tins or jars. They breed bacteria easily from having fingers dipped into them
- As kind as it is, avoid sharing your products with others as germs can be easily spread.
- Do not add water or saliva to products to re-moisten them, you will only be allowing germs into the product.
- Avoid pumping your mascara - you will only force air into the tube and dry the product out faster.
- Be sure to check your products for the expiration date guide if you're not sure how long you've had them!

How are your starting off your new year? We hope you have a happy and healthy 2019!