Say Good Bye to Expired Cosmetics (& Their Nasty Germs)!

Beauty products are a magnet for germs. Do you have cosmetics that are so old they may have their own ancient civilizations growing on them?

There is something compelling about department stores' cosmetic displays and special offers. Consequently, if your cosmetics collection is anything like mine, it needs regular decluttering. For some kick-in-the-b--- motivation, Google "bacteria on cosmetics"!  That gorgeous coral lipstick you wore on the first date with your lover years ago will suddenly lose its appeal. Keep the lover, but lose the lipstick and its germ colony!

After opening, mascara should be tossed after 4 to 6 months; lipstick gets a longer leash at 12 to 24 months. Eye shadow, blush, pencils, and liners along with lip liners can be kept around for about 18 months. Consider opening fewer products at once so you can spend your savings on hot dates (wearing lipstick you know is fresh!)