While it may be premature to start thinking about your summer sundresses, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about your spring skincare. The snow may be falling and your sandals should probably still stay secure in storage for another month, but as your skin’s needs change with the seasons, so do the trends. Tempting, as it may be, to dig through your drawer for that blue eyeliner you’re certain you still have from back when it was in style, pink-eye will never be a trend (and not exactly what we had in mind when we meant add more color to your world).

So where do you start? First, find that case or drawer of old products that you haven’t touched in years and toss everything that’s been opened for more than a year. Although traumatic, trust me, you’ll be making room for better beauty buys ahead!

Unopened, well-formulated cosmetics can remain fresh for years, but when products are stored in hot or humid conditions (i.e., your steamy bathroom) or exposed to the air when opened, bacteria can start to form and ingredients begin to degrade. Unfortunately, beyond noting that your usually marvelous mascara is clumpy and crumbly, it can be difficult to tell when your products pass their prime. While you should trash any product if you note a change in color, texture, scent, or consistency, it’s also wise to do a spring-cleaning of your cosmetics and March is the perfect time.

Start a cosmetic-cleaning schedule:

Every three months toss

Mascara, and Liquid Eyeliner

Every six months toss

Liquid and Cream Foundations, Concealer (concealer can last up to one year if you use a clean applicator to apply it), Facial cleansers, lotions and creams (if in a pump dispenser they can last up to one year), Cream eye shadows, and Products with SPF.

Every year toss

Powder, Blush, Powder eye shadow, Lipstick, Lip-gloss, Lip liner,  and Eyeliner pencils.

Keep your tools in tip-top shape as well. Wash makeup brushes monthly using baby shampoo and regularly disinfect your pencil sharpeners with rubbing alcohol.

Next month, I’ll share my must-haves for Spring; perfect for filling the empty space in your cosmetic case you’ve recently cleared!