There are two good reasons to keep track of how long you've had your beauty products: To be sure they are still effective and to assess their possible contamination with bacteria that can cause rashes or infection. Save this handy guide.  

FOUNDATION: up to 2 years

Throw out sooner if the pigment has started to change or the consistency becomes clumpy.

LIPSTICK: 1 1/2 to 2 years

When the waxes eventually dry out, you'll feel a loss of the slip that makes application easy.

MASCARA: 3 months

Because the process of applying involves moving the wand from lashes to bottle and back, the risk of introducing bacteria is high. A new tube every three months is simply sensible eye hygiene.

 EYE SHADOW: 3 years

If either power or cream varieties exhibit an odor, or a color or texture change, discard sooner.

LIP AND EYE PENCILS: 2 years

If the pencil starts to stick and get more difficult to use, it's probably dried out. Time to toss it.

BLUSH: 3 years

Despite a long shelf life, be alert to changes in color, smell or consistency.

MOISTURIZERS: 3 years

Discard them sooner if you start to smell an off odor or the overall texture seems to have changed.

SUN PROTECTION: 2 years

When it's time to discard, you'll notice that the product starts to separate and may have an odor. 

SELF -TANNERS: 6 months to 1 year

Self-tanners take on a funny smell when they're past their prime. They become less effective and you may get a lighter or inconsistent "tan".

FRAGRANCE: 1 to 4 years

Perfume fades in 1 to 2 years: Toilet water: 2 to 4 years. Store in a cool, dry place away from any sunlight.

DEODORANT: 3 years

The active ingredients don't last forever, and once they're inert, the deodorant isn't effective. 

Nail Polish: 6 months to 4 years

The less it's exposed to air and sunlight, the longer it last. Store in the refrigerator.

Note: Order online through this site to track the age of your cosmetics. It's an easy way to avoid having your makeup spoil.