With the Christmas tree well and truly packed away, and as the New Year–New Me resolutions begin (because realistically January is just a trial month), it’s time to start the spring clean of our cupboards, our wardrobes, and more importantly, our cosmetics!
Charlene Flanagan and Niamh Ryan are both busy mums and the creators of Irish cosmetics brand Ella & Jo, they understand the true importance of decluttering and recommend doing a spring clean every 6-12 months. Not only will it help keep your routine organised, and your skin and brushes healthier, you will more than likely start to use different products you forgot you had which feels like you have a new makeup bag. Bonus!
SORT IT OUT
Start by sorting your make-up into piles – lipsticks, palettes, pencils, samples etc. Once you see where everything is, it’s much easier to get rid of unwanted items and you are one step closer to decluttering your make-up stash.
KEEP, THROW, MAYBE
Now that you have organised the piles, arrange them into Keep, Throw, Maybe.
Take into consideration that every product has an after-open shelf life. Can you remember when you bought each product? Check the packaging for the symbol shown which will tell you the products specific shelf life after opening. Did you know you should replace your mascara every three months? Taking note of expiry dates will avoid nasty infections, breakouts and cracked lips. Be strong, and be brutal.
TOP TIP
If you’re really struggling with this task, book a private consultation with a makeup artist who will guide you on what does and doesn’t suit you.
SO SEPARATE
Separating your makeup bags into your everyday essential products and your going out/occasion wear products will not only simplify your routine, it will make getting out the door in the morning so much easier.
TOP TIP
Buy yourself clear makeup bags so you can easily see where everything is, they can also be wiped clean in no time.
SQUEAKY CLEAN
Your make-up brushes are a breeding ground for bacteria. They could even be the cause of bumpy skin, blemish/acne prone skin and infections. Not only will you find your skin much improved, but your make-up will go on so much better and your brushes will last so much longer! We really only think to clean our make-up brushes when we go to use them so incorporating this as a regular routine is a good habit to get used to.
SPRING CLEAN
After all your hard work, it’s important to treat yourself to something nice! Repurchase any products that have passed their expiry date and treat yourself to some organising accessories like clutterboxes, drawer separators, lipstick holders and make-up brush holders. Do this after you have organised your stash so you know exactly what you need when it’s all done!
