Spring clean your beauty products

It's a good idea to sort through brushes, combs, lipsticks and hair products. How long should you keep them? What about nail polish, eye shadow or makeup brushes? You may be surprised to know that some of these products have expiration dates!

Joshua Morgan, corporate Beauty Trainer for Mario Tricoci Salons and Spas www.tricoci.com has some advice on what to keep and what to throw away.

Make up

Eye Liner

Eye liner can last up to three years. They should be sharpened on a regular basis to ensure smooth application and finish and to guarantee that no bacteria settled on it.

Mascara

Mascara is the makeup product most likely to harbor bacteria and should be replaced every three to for months (regardless of whether the tube is finished or not). Contrary to popular belief, there is no need to pump the mascara wand before applying it, instead simply twist it slowly in a circle in the tube before opening it up to use.

Lip Liner and Lip Stick

Lip liner can last up to three years, but there is mixed opinion about lipstick. Some cosmetic experts say lipsticks are good for a year or two while others say they are good for a period of up to three to four years. Putting lipstick in the refrigerator can prolong its life. You will know when your lipstick has gone bad with a simple smell test - when it smells funny it's time to get rid of it.

Skincare

Creams and Serums

Tightly seal jars after every use – light and high temperatures can cause them to dry out and lose healing properties. Use a spatula to extract crèmes and serums from a jar. Putting your hands into the jar only infects the product with harmful bacteria. Products with pumps are more sanitary and last longer.

Tools

Make-up Brushes

Always wash your makeup brushes every two to three weeks in warm soapy water, mild detergent or baby shampoo.

Make-up Sponges

Sponges should be washed every 10 to 14 days and then rinsed with cool water. Sponges should not be kept longer than a month or two.

Hair

Styling Products

Leaving these gels and waxes underneath the sink can cause them to dry out prematurely. Seal lids tightly, keep them away from heat and they can last a couple of years.

Finishing Products

Sprays and spritz should last up to two years when kept away from dry, hot air.

Tools

Hairbrush

Quality counts for something when it comes to the lifespan of a hairbrush. Good ones should get better and softer with age. Burnt and bent brush bristles are a telltale sign that it's time to replace your brush.

Hairdryer

Hairdryers today are built strong, but at some point its motor may simply go kaput. Keeping the fan and coils free of hair and styling products can help it last longer. As with all small appliances, it's also essential to keep the electrical cord in good condition.

Flat Iron and Curling Iron

These hot tools can experience some severe product build up with regular use. Occasional cleaning can help prolong its life and effectiveness. A little rubbing alcohol can remove sticky product residue. Also give these tools time to cool down in open air before storing them away.

For more information or to schedule a makeup or skincare consultation at Mario Tricoci, can visit www.tricoci.com or call 1-800-TRICOCI.