Spring Cleaning Your Skincare: Out with the Old, In with the New

Spring isn't just for dusting cobwebs and organizing closets; it's the perfect time to give your skincare routine a much-needed refresh! Just like your wardrobe, your skincare products have a shelf life and can become less effective (or even harmful) over time. So, grab your trash bin and let's dive into a spring cleaning session for your beauty cabinet. Being an esthetician for over two decades Leslie Morand has seen many people hold on to old skincare products for way to long taking space in their bathroom. Plus the active ingredients due expire.

Out with the Old, In with the New!

Just like you might declutter your closet, it's essential to assess your current skincare products.

Consider:

• Expiration Dates: Toss anything past its prime.

• Suitability: Are your current products still addressing your skin's needs?

• Ingredient Check: Are you using clean, hormone safe natural ingredients?

Why Bother Cleaning Out Your Skincare?

• Expired Products: Just like food, skincare products expire. Using expired products can lead to skin irritation, breakouts, and reduced effectiveness.

• Bacteria Buildup: Open jars and tubes can become breeding grounds for bacteria, especially if you're dipping your fingers in them.

• Changing Skin Needs: Your skin's needs can change with the seasons, your age, or hormonal shifts. Products that worked for you last year might not be suitable now.

• Clutter Reduction: A cluttered skincare collection can be overwhelming. Cleaning it out helps you focus on what you truly need.

The Ultimate Skincare Cleanse: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Your Supplies:

   • Trash bin

   • Damp cloth or wipes

   • Notebook or phone for notes (optional)

2. Check Expiration Dates:

3. 
   

   • If you can't find an expiration date, a general rule of thumb is:

     • Mascara: 3 to 6 months

     • Liquid foundation: 6-12 months

     • Creams and lotions: 12 to 24 months depending on active ingredients 

     • Serums: 12 to 24 months

     • Sunscreen: 12 months

   • If a product smells or looks off, throw it out.

     
     

4. Assess Product Suitability:

   • Have you experienced any skin changes recently?

   • Are any products causing irritation or breakouts?

   • Are you still happy with the results you're seeing?

   • If the answer to any of these is no, it is time to move on or give them to someone

     
     

5. Clean Your Tools:

   • Wash makeup brushes with a gentle cleanser and let them air dry.

   • Clean makeup sponges thoroughly.

   • Wipe down the inside and outside of your skincare containers.

   
   

6. Organize Your Collection:

   • Group products by category (cleansers, serums, moisturizers, etc.).

   • Arrange products in order of use.

   • Store products in a cool, dry place.

   
   

7. Replenish with Intention:

   • Before you run out and buy new products, take some time to evaluate your skin's current needs.

   • Consider investing in high-quality, clean products that are right for your skin type.

   • Think about the ingredients that are in the products you buy.

   
   

Tips for Sustainable Skincare Cleanup:

• Recycle: Check if your local recycling program accepts skincare packaging.

• Repurpose: Clean out empty jars and use them for storing small items.

• Donate: Unopened or gently used products can often be donated to local charities.

  
  

Spring into a Fresh Routine!

Cleaning out your skincare collection can be a refreshing and rewarding experience. You'll feel lighter, more organized, and ready to embrace a new season of healthy, glowing skin.

Happy spring cleaning!

www.lesliemorand.com

Leslie Morand Holistic Esthetician & Trainer