I form deep and lasting attachments to my favorite makeup products (this probably has something to do with how much I spend on them). Yes, I am the type of lady who will hold on to a Chanel eye-shadow palette long after we should have parted ways because it cost upwards of $50. But, like a bad boyfriend, we need to toss the “just isn’t cutting it anymore” products from our makeup bags when they have nothing left to offer – besides bacteria. Ew.

Unsure of when to toss your mascara or that remaining nub of eyeliner? Here’s the shelf-life breakdown of your everyday basics.

Mascara: Every time you swipe your lashes, your wand collects itty bitty particles of bacteria that end up going right back into the mascara tube. Knowing this is enough to make me want to buy new mascara after each application, but experts recommend switching every two to three months.

Foundations: With the exception of powder mineral foundations (I live and die by Bare Minerals), most of which can last up to two years, all foundations are water-based, meaning they attract bacteria easily. It’s best to replace your foundation after six to twelve months.

Concealer: Powder and stick forms of concealer can last up to two years (take that, blemishes!), while liquid concealers should be discarded after one year.

Blush: The same rules for foundation apply to blush as well. If it’s powder-based, you’re good until you hit the two-year mark. Cream blushes, however, should be thrown away after a year.

Eye shadow and eyeliner: Follow the same rule of thumb as mascara: if a product is going anywhere near your eyes, replace after three months.

Lipstick and lip gloss: Both contain oil-based ingredients, which make these low-risk products in terms of spoiling. Aim to replace glosses and lipsticks after one year, unless you’ve been sick – then toss and start fresh.

The upside of cleaning out your makeup drawer? Shopping for new products, of course. (Sorry, bank account.)

By Lauryn Paiva, Staff Writer

Do you throw away your makeup when you should? Share in the comments below or tweet us at @ruelala.

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In honor of the holiday season (and all the parties you need to get gussied-up for), here are the beauty blogs we’re loving right now.

1. Chalkboard Nails
There are enough manis here to go way beyond the 12 days of Christmas.

2.  Hair Romance
You can now achieve anything you’ve ever wished for your hair.

3. No More Dirty Looks
All-natural, organic, and DIY beauty in one blog? Perfection.

4. The Formula
How can you not love a blog that profiles beauty pros and editors in a section titled “You Are a Babe”?

Who are we missing? Tell us on Twitter at @ruelala #bloggerswelove. 

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.

A smooth, radiant, and perfectly contoured (hello, model-worthy cheekbones) face? We’re after it. But getting that natural glow without looking overdone is easier said than done… until now. This incredibly helpful tutorial from Into The Gloss demonstrates how to create a dewy and fresh-faced look inspired by Renaissance portraits.

Looking for more help achieving this look? The girls in the beauty department at Glamour put together a tutorial on how to achieve Kim Kardashain’s sculpted face.

What is your secret for glowing skin? Leave us your tips in the comments below or tweet us @ruelala.

Not a Member and like The (Style) Guide? You’ll love Rue La La. Join now.