Spring Cleaning, Beauty Edition

Spring Cleaning, Beauty Edition

by Diana Zuban

The Non-Negotiable Cosmetics Cull 

Spring is nature’s gentle nudge to begin again, and your beauty collection deserves the same mindful renewal. As we shift toward lighter textures, brighter tones and fresh finishes, it’s also the perfect moment to pause and reflect on what’s still serving you… and what’s simply taking up space. 

Makeup, like all things, has its season. And when products linger past their prime, they can do more than lose their glow - they can compromise your skin’s health and harmony, too. 

That waterproof mascara reserved solely for wet and sweat days, the special occasion foundation, the limited edition lipstick you just can’t get anymore – let's take a closer look. If the formula is separating, smells off or just “feels different on the skin, it’s time to say goodbye. 

Let’s make space for what feels good now. 

Shelf Life, Simplified 

This clear guide can help you clear with confidence: 
  • Mascara: 3 months, no negotiation. A fresh formula each season keeps your lashes. and your eyes safe and healthy. 
  • Liquid foundation & concealer: 6–12 months. If the texture shifts or the scent changes, trust your instincts and banish it (your skin will thank you). 
  • Lipsticks & glosses: Up to 2 years. But if it smells waxy or feels gritty, it’s time to kiss it goodbye. 
  • Powders (blush, bronzer, eyeshadow, finishing powder, highlighter): 1–2 years. Any alteration in texture or colour should be treated with suspicion. Keeping brushes clean goes a long way to extend powder makeup’s life and purity, but still, 2 years is the upper limit. 
  • SPF-infused products: Always, always check the expiry date. Protection only works when it’s fresh and UV damage is *not* to be trifled with. 

HOT TIP: the start of a new season is a simple way to keep track of product age, with finite seasons for each item easier to monitor than months. Mascara? One season. Liquid makeup? 2-4. Powders? A handful of seasons. SPF products? Usually just one spin around the sun, but the expiry date removes guesswork here. 

The Ritual of Refinement 

Culling beloved formulas can be tricky. Sentimentality, justifying spend and “no waste” sensibilities can put up real obstacles to evaluating and decluttering your cosmetics kit. But! Spring cleaning isn’t just about tossing: it’s about tuning in. Reframing the process as one that positively serves you is the ticket to a harmonious overhaul. Be intentional. If a product hasn’t “sparked joy” or served your skin in over a year, let it go. Create space for formulas that align with your current needs and rhythm. A curated beauty collection is more than tidy, it’s a reflection of self-care, clarity and conscious living. And that’s the kind of renewal we’re here for.