If you’re like me, at some time or another you’ve probably amassed more makeup and skincare products than you meant to. I know I did. I even used to hang on to expired mascaras and serums I didn’t love, telling myself I’d use them “someday.” Spoiler: that day never came.
When I finally decluttered my makeup and skincare to what I actually used, it felt like a breath of fresh air. I gained space, clarity, and a routine I actually enjoy.
Let’s declutter our collections together and create a system that makes it easy to find and use what you love!
If you’re tackling other bathroom clutter, check out my post on 5 Bathroom Counter Organization Ideas. It’s packed with ideas to help you create a functional, calming space.
Step-by-Step Guide to Decluttering Makeup and Skincare
This easy how-to takes only a little bit of time, but can save you so much time and frustrating daily!
1. Gather Everything in One Place
I like to start by pulling out every product (makeup, skincare, and tools) so I can see everything at once. It makes the process less overwhelming when I know exactly what I’m working with.
2. Check Expiration Dates
Toss anything expired or that smells or looks off. Mascara, for instance, should be replaced every three months, and sunscreens lose effectiveness after their expiration dates. (For more details about expiration dates, see the list below.) 👇
3. Be Honest About What You Use
Ask yourself:
- Do I use this product regularly?
- Does it work well for my current skin type or routine?
- Is it something I truly love?
Let go of the items you don’t enjoy or that don’t fit your current lifestyle. (When I entered perimenopause I had to change a lot of what I was using because my skin changed so drastically.)
4. Organize by Category
Separate products into categories like foundations, lipsticks, serums, and moisturizers. This makes it easier to see what you have and streamline your storage.
5. Create Functional Storage
Use clear bins, drawer dividers, or makeup organizers to keep everything tidy. I love using stackable trays for makeup and a rotating caddy or tray for my most-used skin care.
6. Maintain Your Collection
I like to revisit my makeup and skincare every three to six months. It keeps my collection manageable and ensures I’m not holding onto things I won’t use.
When to Throw Things Out
One of the easiest ways to declutter your makeup and skincare collection is by knowing when it’s time to let things go. Expired products not only take up space but can also lose their effectiveness or even irritate your skin.
Here’s a quick guide to help you determine when it’s time to toss makeup and skincare items.
Makeup Expiration Guidelines
- Mascara and Liquid Eyeliner: Replace every 3-6 months (bacteria build-up can cause eye infections).
- Foundation and Concealer: Replace every 6-12 months, especially liquid formulas. Powder formulas may last up to 2 years.
- Lipstick and Lip Gloss: Replace every 1-2 years. Toss sooner if it changes texture, smell, or color. Or if you’ve been sick.
- Powder Makeup (Blush, Eyeshadow, Bronzer): Replace every 2 years unless it develops a strange odor or changes consistency.
- Eyeliner Pencils: Replace every 1-2 years. Sharpen before each use to keep them fresh.
Skincare Expiration Guidelines
- Sunscreen: Discard after the expiration date, usually 1-2 years. Expired sunscreen loses its effectiveness.
- Moisturizers, Serums, and Toners: Use within 6-12 months after opening. Look for texture or smell changes and toss if you notice any weird scent or texture changes.
- Cleansers: Typically last 1 year after opening. Foaming or gel formulas may last longer than creamy ones.
- Facial Oils: Use within 6-12 months; oils can go rancid over time.
- Acne Treatments or Retinoids: Follow the expiration date closely, as active ingredients lose potency over time.
General Rules
- Unopened Products: Typically last 2-3 years if stored in a cool, dry place.
- Changes in Texture, Smell, or Color: If a product separates, thickens, smells off, or changes color, it’s time to toss it, even if it’s within the recommended timeframe.
- Opened Products: Always note the open-jar symbol on the packaging (e.g., “12M” means it’s good for 12 months after opening).
FAQs
Drawer dividers and small containers are perfect for organizing in tight spaces. A wall-mounted organizer or magnetic board can also save counter space.
Check local recycling programs for empty containers, and toss expired products in the trash. Avoid flushing liquids or creams down the sink.
If the products are gently used, see if a friend or family member might like them. Some unopened products may also be donated to local shelters.
More Bathroom Organizing Ideas
- How to Organize a Bathroom
- 8 Brilliant Bathroom Organization Tips
- 7 Bathroom Drawer Organization Ideas
- 5 Bathroom Counter Organization Ideas
- How to Organize Under the Bathroom Sink
- How to Organize a Shared Bathroom
- How to Organize a Medicine Cabinet Safely
- How to Declutter & Organize Hair Tools
- How to Declutter Your Makeup and Skincare Collection
- 10 Clever Small Bathroom Storage Ideas for Every Inch of Space
Letting go of old makeup and skincare wasn’t easy at first, but once I started, I realized how much simpler my routine became. Now I actually enjoy getting ready without digging through clutter or using products I don’t love.
If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by your collection, give this process a try. I promise it’s worth it!
Do you have any more makeup and skincare decluttering advice that you love? I’d love to hear it in the comments below!
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