If you are anything like me, your makeup bag has endured some heavy hits- over stuffing, travel wounds and cracked cases that have now coloured the inside walls and bestowed an iridescent sparkly film over everything inside.  Yep, the time has come to clean that puppy out and toss some out of dates products while you are at it!

First, check the dates and determine who has expired.  Start with your mascara, lash thickener, face primer, tinted moisturizer, concealer and foundation.  All of these products have a life span of about three months.  I know it doesn’t seem like that is the case- and some products can stretch a bit longer, especially if they are stored in cool dry places- but one thing you really should not compromise on is your mascara.  Some beauty experts say that they should only be used for a maximum of six weeks after opening.  So, don’t skimp on that one and while you are at it maybe give some of the “healthier” formulas a try like Chantecaille’s mascara with rose water- it actually hydrates your lashes (kind of an oxymoron in the mascara world).

Second, assess what colours you are using.  The truth is your skin really does change along with the seasons, so your foundation and accenting colours (eye shadows and blush) should too.  You should have a summer and a winter colour that match and fade into your skin when applied in a vertical line on the lower side of your cheek.  When you are in between the two, mix them. :)

As for accenting colours, have some fun and go with the trends a bit.  You can always find a new colour that is of the moment and compliments  your skin type (more on that later).  Don’t over do it- less is more.  Find one trend  you would like to rock, like rockstar pink lips or the azure teal eyeliner and keep everything else neutral and natural looking.

The big clean is a great way to assess what you have, what needs to be replaced and what new bits you can add in.  On my list this spring is a cooper eyeliner to smudge into my lower lashes and a candy pop pink lip gloss for a natural summery look.

I hope your clean offers some clarity and inspires you to play with what you have and bring in some new trends!