how long do you keep make-up for?

[foxdongle]

wanted to clear out my make-up bag and give it a wash.
Then buy a couple of new bits.

I've got some make-up that's 2-3 years old and not sure how long to keep it, apart from mascara which I change every 6 months or less.
I have googled this question and got different answers.

so how old is yours and often do you chuck it?

Mine is ancient, lots 5 yrs plus, but I only wear make up about twice a year. I tend to use samples of things like foundation. The old stuff is mostly powder, eye shadow etc. I know it's not good though.

Mascara, 6 months ish. Foundation, well, too long. I've got some that's 2/3 years old, but that I don't wear because it either doesn't agree with me or I don't like the effect of it on me (why I don't just chuck it out I have no idea.....) I tend to run out of the BB cream I use and then re-buy, so that's probably within about 3 months. Eyeshadow, God, years and years. Same with lippy. Am due another big sort out actually......!

Seems to me most make up is a bit like cockroaches i.e. pretty indestructible. I have miracle promising foundations that are a number of years old and seem fine. I do change mascara every few months. I have ancient lipsticks and lip glosses. All fine.

I keep my stuff until it either smells stale or I don't like it anymore.

Longer than I should I'm sure! I do buy a new mascara every three months but everything else stays till I've used it up or I've gone off it.

I remember reading an article years ago by some posh modelly type who replaced all her make up yearly. Good for you lovey...now back in the real world

Mascara and foundation - until they're finished (as I only use one of each at a time they last 6 months-ish).

Other bits and bobs - until I don't like them any more or they seem past their best.

I never throw anything away for simply being of a certain age IYSWIM.

thanks for all your replies.
You've saved me a few quid which obvs that posh model doesn't mind wasting :)

I've only chucked and bought new;
eye pencil, a couple of lip glosses gone all gooey and blusher which had nearly run out anyway.

if it is kicking around for that long, you clearly don't use it. So chuck it and stop wasting money on it!