I get asked quite frequently how and when should you discard your old products, or if lipstick has a shelf life. While I understand not wasting products and the money that you spend, your makeup can breed bacteria if you keep it past the expiration date.

Whether you buy top of the line makeup or hit the local drugstore for your products, they all have the same shelf life. Here are the universal guidelines of expiration on your favorite products. However, keep in mind if your product starts to look or smell off, then it is time to toss and have fun shopping.

Face Time: Cream or gel clensers (12 months); Concealer (12 months); Water Based Foundation (12 months); Oil Based Foundation (18 months); Loose Powder (3 years); Pressed Powder (2 years).

The Eyes Have It: Eyeshadow (3 years); Pencil Eyeliner (3 years – sharpen regularly); Liquid Eyeliner (2 years); Mascara (4 months).

Kiss Me: Lip Liner (3 years – sharpen regularly); Lipstick (1 to 2 years – if you notice that it is starting to smell off, then it’s time to toss).

Finishing Touches: Brushes (years with proper care – clean them weekly and the better the brush set, the longer it will last for you); Sponges (wash weekly, discard monthly); Nail Polish (18 months – shake regularly).