Spring is the perfect time for cleaning, and this year, we are going to make sure that one of our massive cleaning binges includes our seriously-in-need-of-cleaning makeup bag. From a zillion depleted and dilapidated  lip glosses (some sparkly ones!) to a thousand broken, bristly brushes, we have our work cut out for us. Of course we do know that the reward will be well worth it…especially when we get to go on a serious beauty shopping spree once we’re done cleaning and then we’ll have a clean and green makeup bag!

De-Clutter:

Take the time to sort through all of your makeup and beauty products. Toss anything you don’t use anymore (like that lipstick you thought you loved but now hate) or is expired (like that mascara you’ve had since senior prom).

Speaking of ‘Expired’:

How do you know a product is expired? How dangerous is it to use expired makeup? A good guide to start with is if the label is worn off (!) you should probably toss it. Other than that though, how do you know? We have a good guide to the oft-stocked items in a beauty bag.

Mascara: Once a tube of mascara is open, it starts to collect bacteria. Ideally, it should be replaced every 2-3 months (a good reason to have beautiful, long, plump lashes every day, since it will only last a few months anyway). We recommend to go green with your mascara and one of our faves is the Pacifica Stellar Gaze Length & Strength Mineral Mascara. Infused with coconut oil and vitamin B to hydrate as it lengthens, strengthens and adds volume. 100% vegan, cruelty-free, formulated without FD & C color, parabens, talc and mineral oil. How lovely is that?

Eye Pencils: Can last up to 2 years. To be on the safe side, sharpen pencils every time you use them so you’re starting with a new bit of colour eachand every time (it is going very close to your eye, after all!). Another product we’d definitely go on the greener side with is your eye pencil. Gluten-free, vegan and made with the powder of precious stones, Pure Anada Pureline Pencil Eye Liner’s smooth consistency facilitates easy application and gives you expressive eyes. It’s also typically tolerated by contact lens wearers and those with sensitive skin.

Lippies: Lipsticks and lip gloss typically last one year or less….if you don’t use it up or lose it before then! To prolong their use, don’t share it and wipe the use end with a alcohol swab every once in a while or after being sick. Our fave organic lipstick is 100% Pure Cocoa Butter Semi-Matte Lipstick. Formulated with healthy fruit pigments, it provides intensely rich colour while moisturizing with a nourishing blend of cocoa butter, shea butter and vitamin E.

Foundation: Your foundation should be replaced every 6 – 12 months. Oil-free foundations, BB creams and tinted moisturizers won’t last as long as those that are not. Any smell or separation is a sure sign that it’s time to re-stock. If you use your fingers for your cream blush, wash your hands first  — dirty fingers, dirty product (using a brush actually gives a better, more blended finish). Why not swap out your old foundation for something more natural like Dr. Hauschka Foundation? Create a flawless, even complexion with quality ingredients and natural mineral pigments that are extremely kind to the skin. Pomegranate, macadamia nut oil, and coconut oil will moisturize and protect your skin.

Powders: Always keep powders in a cool, dry place. Pressed powder has shelf life of around two years and loose powder can last up to three. Switch up to a face powder free of harsh chemicals, parabens, GMOs, and synthetic preservatives, fragrances, and colours, such as Physicians Formula Organic Wear Pressed Powder, which moisturizes and mattefies the skin.

Makeup Brushes: Wash all of your makeup brushes with a mild or baby shampoo every few months. This will make application better and smoother and keep you from applying dirt or oil to your face along with your makeup. We adore Pure Anada’s vegan, cruelty-free cosmetic brushes. Along with being exceptionally good for makeup application, they are eco-friendly (nothing wrong with that!).

Makeup Bag: Don’t forget to clean your makeup bag at the same time you clean your brushes. Since bacteria thrive in warm conditions, your bag is a more-than-perfect hideaway. Chuck it in the washing machine or wipe it out with an antibacterial wipe.

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