How often do you toss your makeup? When it comes to something like milk, most of us are only too ready to throw it out at the slightest indication of sourness. Surely, then, we would apply the same logic to makeup — after all, this is something we apply to our faces on a daily basis, right? Nope! Unfortunately this is not the case. I personally have held on to makeup for way too long at times.

I started thinking about this after receiving a #VLbblogerhaul sampling of Vincent Longo makeup from the team over at BeautyStat (#Bstat).

I went to put them away and noticed I had a bunch of old makeup taking up space in my vanity. Were they still safe to use? I had no clue. I know I had them for a while, but for the life of me couldn't remember when each item was purchased, because who remembers that sort of thing?

I decided to do a little research and learned that knowing when to throw out your makeup is key in avoiding acne, itchy or infected skin, and pink eye. While some cosmetic companies print expiry dates on their packaging, most of them are only too happy to leave this important information out of the public eye.

Checking for the Elusive Makeup Expiration Date

Before going on a panicked rampage to throw out all the “old makeup” in your cosmetic case, take a minute to check for expiration dates on the packaging. Some companies will print the exact date in a D/M/Y format. I also love the fact that some companies will showcase a small picture of an open-lidded jar with a number followed by an “M” or a “Y”. This indicates the number of months or years at which the product must be thrown away after opening.

Know your Numbers

Cosmetic companies are not legally required to print expiry dates on their products, so I've done the research for you as to when you should toss your makeup. Some items, like mascara, expire faster than others and should not be used past a particular date. Others offer a little more leeway and can be kept for several years.

Mascara is the biggest culprit of them all. When you notice that your mascara has formed clumps, or if it smells a little odd, you should throw it out. This generally happens after 3 or 4 months. Mascara should not be used past its sell-by date. Itchiness, soreness, and redness in and around the eyes can be attributed to old mascara. In extreme cases, this particular type of eye makeup can cause conjunctivitis ( aka pink eye)– not something you want when you are trying to put your best face forward.

Liquid foundations tend to last anywhere between 6 and 12 months. If you store your foundation out of direct sunlight it will probably last about a year. If left in direct sunlight, the product will expire a lot faster. If you notice that your foundation has lightened in color, or if it forms streaks on your face, It's probably time to throw it out.

Eyeshadow, lipstick, and nail polish will last for around two years. Lipstick will usually dry out and form cracks when it reaches its expiration date. Eyeshadow tends to becomes dry and flaky, making it virtually impossible to blink without sprinkling bits of pigment everywhere. You can extend the lifespan of your nail polish by adding a drop of nail polish remover to it and storing it in the fridge, but as soon as it goes lumpy you will know that the time has come to throw it out.

What do you do after tossing your old makeup?

You buy new ones of course! I'm really liking the new Vincent Longo makeup I received. My favorite is the Silk Velour Lipstick in Vanguard. It goes on nice and smooth and is such a lovely color. It's also gluten free! The Dew Drop Radiant Blush in Misty Blossom and Pearl X Eyeshadow in Destiny Rose is also gorgeous!

They have a full line of makeup available at their website, and guess what? You can save 15% when you use the following Vincent Longo coupon code: BSBVBE6. Coupon expires 9/1/2014.

So go ahead and throw out all your old makeup – your skin will thank you!