How to store makeup: 12 life changing ways to keep your beauty in check

published 1 February 2018

Save yourself from chaos

Words by Fiona Embleton

Getting ready in the morning is so much easier when you can actually find what you need, right? So it’s time to learn how to store makeup, overhaul that messy makeup drawer and de-clutter the bathroom cabinet. Not only does it mean you’ll never lose your best eyeliner again but you can also keep a beady eye on the shelf life of your products.

Yes, even your best red lipstick that's been worn down to no more than a stump can expire. Most products have a jar symbol marked with a number that signifies the number of months you have to use up the product once it's been opened.

As a general rule, you should replace your mascara every three months, eyeliner and eye shadow every six to 12 months, and lipstick every 18 months. Meanwhile, the average expiration date for foundation, powder and blusher is 12 months. Speaking of blusher, head on over to Powder and they'll give you a bespoke blusher recommendation, try it out here.

Not sure how to up your dressing table game? Categorising your make-up is a good place to start. Separate your lipsticks, blushers and eye make-up. Then group them based on colour or texture (whether it’s cream or powder, FYI). Make sure you chuck anything with an off smell or change in colour – applying it could cause irritation or breakouts. Then get clever with your storage.

Drawer dividers are the obvious choice as they create instantly polished make-up drawers. Or opt for stackable acrylic drawers (Muji have a great selection) so you can scan the contents without rummaging through 101 different lipsticks. Make-up brushes, eyelash curlers and eyeliners can be kept upright in open-top containers.

Re-purpose empty candle holders and flower pots or pour coffee beans into a glass jar and stick them in. Those with Blue Peter-level craftiness can raise the bar even higher by creating a magnetic make-up board. Simply cover a stainless steel baking tray with fabric or wallpaper; glue magnets to the back of flat-surface products such as eyeshadow, blusher and bronzer, then arrange and hang on the wall.

Want more ideas for your beauty battle station? Click through our gallery and never shove your make-up in a shoebox again.