The first rule to remember is OLD IS NOT GOLD. Not where make up is concerned anyhow. Make up has a shelf life.

The law doesn't stipulate that cosmetics manufacturers must reveal their use- by date in their packaging. So, many users are ignorant about this little but vital bit of information.

Make up gets contaminated easily.

If you leave anything unused for months, it gets discoloured or spoiled. If make up is used on moist skin, then closed up again, bacteria could breed in it. The next time you use it, the germs are transferred to your face.

How can you know when your make up has gone bad? Easy, they all have an approximate shelf life. You can't go wrong if you follow the code.

Foundation: Shelf life is about 6 months.

Foundation in bottles with narrow necks usually last longer. Wide mouthed jars let in more air. They also allow you to thrust your fingers inside. All this promotes the transfer and growth of bacteria. When the ingredients start changing texture or smelling differently, it is time to throw it out and get yourself a new bottle.

Lipstick: Shelf life is about a year or two.

Oil based lipsticks last longer. And all lipsticks last longer when stored in the refrigerator. Any changes in colour, smell or taste is a sure indication that the lipstick needs to be replaced. Never use a lipstick that makes your lips tingle or burn on application.

Eye pencils: Shelf life is about 2 years.

Eye pencils with a wax base last much longer. Bacteria don't grow on wax. If pencils are sharpened once a week, it prevents dust or microbiotic growth from settling in. An eye pencil that crumbles should be thrown away.

Mascara: Shelf life is just three months.
Mascara is a product that needs to be replaced every 3 months whether you use it or not. Be ultra careful with your mascara. Don't let the brush touch anything but your lashes.

Talcum powder: Shelf life is a few years.
But it can spoil if exposed to sunlight or moisture. So keep your container tightly closed.

Blush on: Shelf life is about 2 years.
If it cracks without reason, then it is safer to dispose it and buy another one.

Nail polish: Shelf life is about a year.
Nail polishes often need to be shaken well so the pigments blend well. If they do not come together even after a vigorous shake, it's time to replace it. Excessively thick nail polish could be a sign of spoilage.

Perfume: Shelf life is about two years.
If it changes colour or emits a chemical smell, it shouldn't be used on the skin.