The new year is here has come and went. Your makeup counter has probably seen a few new products after the holidays. But did you know you can treat your makeup counter to some good old fashion cleaning or trying a new product?

First Do:
Go through your makeup and make sure none of it is expired. Yes, makeup can expire. The recommended shelf life for makeup is one year from opening the package. Sometimes it can last for a little longer than a year. Putting old makeup on your face can cause breakouts, rash, pimples, or clog your pores. Now the exception to this rule is eyeshadows. Don’t go throwing away any makeup pallets that you bought that you might use every once in a while. The best way to keep those clean and fresh is to find a spray bottle, you can find them at the dollar store. Fill the bottle with rubbing alcohol and spray your pallets lightly. The alcohol will kill any bacteria.

Second Do:
Try something out of your comfort zone when it comes to makeup. Try a bold color on your lips or eyes. Venture even further and try a new brand of makeup. When you are looking for something new if you go to a store and they have samples don’t try them on your face. You don’t know who has used that product, it might have been double-dipped and that person could have a skin condition that could be transferred. Do ask an employee to help you out.

Third Do:
Speaking of bacteria in makeup, it’s that time of year for people to get sick. If you or someone you know that has had a pink eye, do not share makeup with them. If you have had it yourself throw away all makeup that you have used on your eyes for the past few weeks. Bacteria can live in makeup for a very long time.

Starting off the year to a new you is always great, push the limits on a new look. Make sure all makeup is still ok for your face and hasn’t expired!