Clean Out Your Makeup Bag: What to Toss Today

Let’s be honest: most of us have at least one product in our makeup bag that’s way past its prime. Maybe it’s that beloved lipstick you haven’t touched in two years, or a dried-up mascara you keep “just in case.” But expired or overused makeup isn’t just clutter—it can irritate your skin, cause breakouts, and even introduce bacteria to sensitive areas like your eyes.

So if you’re overdue for a makeup bag cleanup, here’s your gentle nudge (and a helpful guide) to let go of the products that have quietly outstayed their welcome.

Why It Matters

Makeup doesn’t last forever. Over time, exposure to air, fingers, and brushes can turn your favorite products into a breeding ground for bacteria. Old formulas may separate, dry out, or lose effectiveness. And while a sentimental lipstick might hold memories, it won’t hold up under a microscope—or on your skin.

Regularly cleaning out your stash can:

Keep your skin healthier
Improve how your makeup applies
Make space for products you actually love and use
Save you from unpleasant surprises (like clumpy mascara or a weird-smelling gloss)

What to Toss—Right Now

Here’s a breakdown of products and when to part ways with them, even if they look okay:

Mascara: 3–6 months

Once opened, mascara is highly prone to bacterial contamination. If it’s clumpy, dry, or smells off, it’s time to let it go. Using expired mascara increases your risk of eye irritation or infections.

Liquid eyeliner: 3–6 months

Like mascara, liquid liners come into direct contact with your eye area. If yours is flaking, smudging oddly, or smells strange, toss it.

Foundation & Concealer: 6–12 months

Liquid and cream formulas are more prone to harboring bacteria. If the texture separates, the smell changes, or the coverage isn’t what it used to be, it’s time. Powder foundations last a bit longer—up to 18 months—if stored well.

Lipsticks & Lip Gloss: 12–24 months

If your lipstick smells waxy, has changed color, or feels drier than usual, don’t hesitate to retire it. Glosses should also go if the texture turns goopy or tacky.

Powder Products (Blush, Bronzer, Eyeshadow): 18–24 months

These tend to last longer, especially if you clean your brushes regularly. But if the pigment is fading, the surface is hard, or they’ve collected a strange film, it’s time to move on.

Pencils (Eye and Lip): Up to 2 years

Because you’re regularly sharpening them, they’re a bit more hygienic. Just be sure to keep the caps on and sharpen before each use if they’ve been sitting unused.

Cream Products (Blush, Eyeshadow, Contour sticks): 6–12 months

Creams break down faster and can collect bacteria more easily. If they smell odd or the texture shifts, into the trash they go.

Bonus: What Else to Check

Makeup sponges: If you can’t remember when you last washed it—or if it’s torn, discolored, or smells off—replace it. These are notorious for harboring bacteria.
Brushes: While they don’t expire, they do require regular cleaning. Wash weekly with gentle soap or brush cleanser to keep them in good shape.
Samples & minis: These often get forgotten. If you’ve had them for over a year and haven’t touched them, you probably never will.
Old packaging: Cracked lids, broken compacts, and spilled powders can contaminate your products and make them harder to use hygienically.

How to Know If It’s Really Gone Bad

Sometimes the signs are subtle. Trust your senses—and your instincts.

Ask yourself:

Has the texture changed?
Does it smell different?
Is the pigment fading or behaving oddly?
Does it feel weird on your skin?

If you’re unsure and the product is more than a year old, it’s probably safest to let it go.

Storage Tips to Make Your Makeup Last Longer

Keep it cool: Heat can break down formulas faster, so avoid storing makeup in your car or near windows.
Seal it tightly: Air exposure leads to drying and contamination.
Clean hands and tools: Don’t dip fingers into jars without washing first.
Avoid the bathroom: Humidity can encourage mold and bacterial growth—especially in creams and powders.

Out with the Old, In with the Intentional

Decluttering your makeup bag isn’t just about tossing expired stuff. It’s about refining your routine—keeping what works, letting go of what doesn’t, and making room for products that truly support your beauty goals.

So take this as your sign: dump the dried mascara, say goodbye to the lip gloss that smells like middle school, and honor your current self with a routine that’s fresh, clean, and intentional.

Your skin—and your sanity—will thank you.