7 Things You Should NEVER Have in Your Makeup Bag – do you have any of these items in your make up bags?
Makeup is one of those magical tools that can transform your look, elevate your mood, and boost your confidence. It’s something that many of us rely on daily, but as with anything, it’s easy to go overboard and hold on to things we really don’t need. Whether it’s expired products, broken items, or things you’ll never use, your makeup bag can quickly become a cluttered mess if you’re not careful.
To help you keep your makeup routine streamlined and effective, let’s explore seven things you should absolutely never have in your makeup bag. We’ll dive deep into each of these points, offer tips on what to do instead, and even sprinkle in some iconic makeup quotes to keep things fun and inspiring. So, grab your makeup bag and let’s get organized!
Things You Should NEVER Have in Your Makeup Bag
1. Expired Medicine
We all know that medicine has an expiration date, but did you know that the same goes for some of the medications you might be keeping in your makeup bag? Expired medication can not only lose its effectiveness but can also be harmful to your skin and health. Many people stash items like acne treatments, topical steroids, or even pain relief creams in their makeup bags, thinking they’re still good to use when needed. However, using expired products could do more harm than good.
Why You Shouldn’t Keep Expired Medicine in Your Makeup Bag
Medicine that’s past its expiration date often loses its potency, and in some cases, it could even cause skin irritation or other adverse reactions. For example, expired acne treatment gels or creams could make your skin condition worse or cause more breakouts. Medications like hydrocortisone or even sunscreen, which are often stored in the same spot as makeup, also degrade over time, making them less effective at doing their job.
What to Do Instead
First, be sure to go through your medicine and skincare items regularly. Toss any expired prescriptions or over-the-counter medications immediately. If you’re unsure about the shelf life of certain products, check with a pharmacist or look up information online. This helps you stay safe and ensures your makeup bag is full of products that work!
As beauty expert Bobbi Brown once said, “The secret to beauty is simple: be who you are.” Your skincare and makeup routine should support who you are, not work against you.
2. Duplicates of the Same Item
If you’re someone who’s prone to buying new makeup products whenever you see a sale or just forget what’s already in your makeup bag, chances are you have duplicates of certain items. The most common offenders are foundations, mascaras, and lip products. You might think you need a backup in case one runs out, but having multiple versions of the same thing can clutter your makeup bag, waste money, and sometimes even cause unnecessary confusion.
Why You Shouldn’t Keep Duplicates
First of all, having too many duplicates is just unnecessary. It can take up space that you could use for other, more practical items, like makeup wipes, a mini deodorant, or even a travel-sized setting spray. Secondly, you might forget about the duplicates you already own, leading to products sitting in your bag for months (or years) without being used. This can result in your products expiring before you get the chance to finish them, leading to waste.
What to Do Instead
Before you purchase a new makeup product, take stock of what you already own. If you’re running low on something like foundation or mascara, maybe it’s time to finish up the current product before opening a new one. Instead of having multiple lip glosses in similar shades, focus on one or two that you can wear every day.
“Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.” — Coco Chanel
Chanel’s famous quote reminds us that our makeup bag should reflect our true beauty, and that doesn’t mean hoarding excessive amounts of products you don’t need.
3. Old Makeup
Just like medicine, makeup products don’t last forever. Most makeup items, especially liquid or cream-based products, have a shelf life that’s much shorter than you think. Old makeup can change in texture, color, and even smell. More importantly, it can cause skin irritation or breakouts. If your mascara has a strange odor or your foundation has separated, it’s time to let it go.
Why You Shouldn’t Keep Old Makeup
Expired makeup is more than just an aesthetic issue. Products like mascara, for example, can harbor bacteria that lead to eye infections. Foundation or concealer that’s too old may no longer blend well or provide the coverage you expect, leaving your skin looking uneven or patchy. Cream blushes, eyeshadows, and other products might dry out, making them harder to apply. Plus, old makeup can often contain harmful chemicals that may irritate sensitive skin.
What to Do Instead
Regularly check the expiration dates on your makeup products. Many cosmetics have a small symbol on the packaging (a jar with an open lid) that indicates how many months the product is good for after opening. For instance, mascara is typically good for only 3–6 months, while foundations last about 6–12 months. Invest in good quality products that last and replace them promptly when they expire.
“Makeup is not a mask that covers up your beauty; it’s a weapon that helps you express who you are.” — Michelle Phan
Michelle Phan’s quote highlights how makeup is a tool to express our natural beauty. Keeping it fresh and up-to-date ensures that it does its job in making you feel confident.
4. Dirty Brushes or Sponges
One of the most common mistakes people make is neglecting to clean their makeup brushes or sponges. These tools come into direct contact with your skin, and over time, they accumulate dirt, oils, and bacteria. Using dirty brushes can lead to clogged pores, acne, and other skin issues.
Why You Shouldn’t Use Dirty Brushes
When you apply makeup with dirty brushes or sponges, you risk transferring bacteria and oils onto your skin, which can cause breakouts and irritation. Brushes also tend to become less effective as dirt and old product build up, making it harder to get the desired result. Using a dirty brush can also make your makeup look streaky or uneven.
What to Do Instead
Clean your brushes and sponges regularly, ideally once a week, using a gentle brush cleaner or baby shampoo. You can also invest in brush-cleaning tools like mats or sprays for a quicker clean. Not only will this improve the application of your makeup, but it’ll also keep your skin healthier.
“The most beautiful makeup of a woman is passion. But cosmetics are easier to buy.” — Yves Saint Laurent
Yves Saint Laurent’s insight reminds us that passion is at the heart of beauty, and part of that passion is taking care of the tools that help us express ourselves.
5. Products That Don’t Match Your Skin Tone
It’s tempting to grab whatever makeup product catches your eye in the store, but what happens when it doesn’t actually match your skin tone? You end up with products that you can’t use, or worse, ones that make your skin look unnatural. Whether it’s foundation, concealer, or blush, always make sure your products are a match for your complexion.
Why You Shouldn’t Keep Products That Don’t Match
Using makeup that doesn’t complement your skin tone can lead to a mismatched or overly done look. For example, a foundation that’s too light for your skin can create a stark contrast, while one that’s too dark can make you appear orange or muddy. Similarly, blush or bronzer that’s too vibrant or pale can create an uneven complexion. This will make your makeup look forced, rather than enhancing your natural beauty.
What to Do Instead
Always test makeup products before purchasing them (especially foundation and concealer). Some stores even offer sample sizes so you can try before you buy. Keep only the shades that work with your skin tone, and remember that it’s okay to mix products to get the perfect match!
“Makeup is not something to be afraid of. It’s fun. It’s an expression of your personality, your creativity.” — Kesha
Kesha reminds us that makeup should be a reflection of who we are, and that means using the right products to match our natural beauty.
6. Broken or Cracked Products
It’s inevitable that makeup products sometimes break, especially when they’ve been thrown around in a busy makeup bag. However, holding on to broken or cracked products is not only wasteful, but it can also make your bag messy and difficult to navigate.
Why You Shouldn’t Keep Broken Makeup
Broken makeup, whether it’s a powder compact or a shattered eyeshadow, is not only messy but can be hard to apply. The loose powder can spill everywhere, and trying to use broken lipstick or a crumbled blush can make your application uneven. Keeping broken products can also be frustrating when you’re in a rush and can’t find the product you need in a hurry.
What to Do Instead
Toss broken or cracked items and replace them as soon as possible. If a powder product has cracked, you can attempt to salvage it by pressing it back into the pan, but it’s better to buy a new one if it’s too damaged.
“The best thing is to look natural, but it takes makeup to look natural.” — Calvin Klein
Calvin Klein nails the idea that beauty comes from being authentic, and part of that is using makeup that enhances our natural features, not products that are falling apart.
7. Expired Sunscreen – Things You Should NEVER Have in Your Makeup Bag:
Sunscreen is a vital component of any beauty routine, but it does have an expiration date. Sunscreen that’s past its prime won’t protect you from harmful UV rays, which can lead to premature aging, sunburn, or even skin cancer.
Why You Shouldn’t Keep Expired Sunscreen
Expired sunscreen becomes less effective, which means you’re not getting the protection your skin needs. In addition, expired sunscreen can sometimes break down into harmful chemicals that could irritate your skin.
What to Do Instead
Check the expiration date of your sunscreen and replace it regularly. Keep a travel-sized bottle in your makeup bag for those on-the-go days. If your sunscreen smells bad or has separated, it’s definitely time for a replacement.
“Take care of your skin, and you’ll look beautiful in your own skin.” — Gabrielle Union
Gabrielle Union reminds us that skincare (including sunscreen) is key to maintaining beauty, and using products that protect and nourish our skin is a long-term investment.
Conclusion: Things You Should NEVER Have in Your Makeup Bag
By making sure your makeup bag is free of expired products, duplicates, old makeup, and dirty tools, you’re setting yourself up for a much smoother and more enjoyable beauty routine. Remember that makeup is an expression of who you are, and keeping your bag organized and full of the right products helps you feel confident and radiant every day.
As makeup artist Pat McGrath says, “Makeup is not just a mask; it’s a reflection of your mood, your confidence, your uniqueness.” Let your makeup bag be a reflection of your true self—organized, purposeful, and full of products that work for you.
Now, go ahead and get to cleaning! Your skin—and your makeup routine—will thank you.
Further reading
7 things you should never keep in your handbag