The yellow daffodils have popped up in my neighbor’s yard. That must mean spring is on the way, so it’s time for some spring cleaning. Of course, I’m not speaking of house cleaning, so don’t stop reading. Hopefully this will be more fun.
Like most things, even cosmetics and beauty products have a shelf life that demands respect. It didn’t occur to me how ignored the personal spaces of some ladies can get until I began digging around in the bathroom drawers at Mama’s house. She has things shoved far back into the shadows of her cabinets that would scare Stephen King. I’m not exaggerating when I speak of makeup brushes, lipsticks and such that haven’t seen daylight since 1995. Oh, she’s not still using them, but just can’t bring herself to throw them away. Listen up, everyone, and especially you, Mama!
It’s no wonder why you have old lipsticks in your favorite shade of wine purchased around the same time of those giant shoulder pad blouses like Sue Ellen on Dallas, graphic tees and Madonna CDs, but everything has an expiration date. Granted, the Material Girl herself spans the decades pretty well, but eyeliner, not so much. As a general rule, lipsticks should be tossed long before you find yourself scraping the tube with a cotton swab or lip brush. After six months, it’s time to pucker up to a new one because nothing stays fresh forever. The tell-tale sign is when it develops a scent that resembles crayons. Truly, just kiss it goodbye.
Also, remember that anything that goes near the eye area should be sanitized weekly with a mixture of alcohol and water. Mascara, eyeliner and even expensive eye serums should be used or discarded within three to six months. Separation anxiety may cause the blood pressure to rise, but ultimately it’s liberating to err on the side of caution. An eye infection does not go well with any spring ensemble.
Fill your sink with hot water, and toss in all of your combs and brushes with some shampoo every once in a while to remove residues and germs. Cracked, broken powder eye shadows can sometimes be salvaged by adding a drop or two of baby oil and pressing lightly with your index finger. When possible, only buy moisturizers, serums and creams in a pump dispenser. You will use less. The antioxidants will last longer, and it is more sanitary. Finally, remember that most manufacturers put an expiration date on the outside of the package to let you know an estimated shelf-life. Obey.
Spring cleaning isn’t just about closets, Lysol and the garage. It’s also about being beautiful and staying that way.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
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