Personally I like cosmetics without any odors. Not perfume and certainly not smelling like mildew!

I recently learned allot more about cosmetics, since having started using and having dabbled in selling Mary Kay Skin Care. As a Professional Organizer I see that this information would not only help to clear your clutter, yet may also help serve to clear up someone's complexion.

To be honest, I have been pretty bad myself in the past about my cosmetics, holding on way too long, yet recently I came to a breaking point as I neared my 40th birthday. I decided I needed to start taking better care of my skin. Lines and dryness were starting to become and issue and as a woman I want to stay looking my best as long as I breath.

When I decided to finally chip in for new cosmetics I went with a trusted line, yet before I took the plunge, I took a real close look at what I was using. I took out everything I owned and I looked at how long I had something, whether or not I used it, if it was damaged or whether or not I even liked it anymore. If it didn't make the cut, it was out.

Boy, I'll tell you, there wasn't much left! I tossed 70% of everything I had. So, off to my consultant I went and before long had a fresh look and fresh product to enjoy. A few days later I met up with a long time friend and to my surprise she said I looked "Better than ever!" That made me even happier. No regrets here, that's for sure.

Today I offer a few tips for you when it comes to organizing your cosmetics so you can make sure that whatever product you use, it's fresh.

First, the organizing process:

1. Sort all your cosmetics into various categories such as creams, foundations, eyes, lips and nails.

2. Go through each one carefully and toss out anything that you; hate, can't remember when you bought it, has expired, is dried out, is covered in dust or smells funny.

3. Decide where your keepers will go.

4. Containerize each category to set limits on future purchases and to ensure you will always have a "Place for everything."

5. Label your containers wherever possible.

6. Keep a copy of the Shelf life List in with your cosmetics so you can keep on top of future expired products.

Please note: If you don't have containers on hand that are suitable, think carefully about your needs and decor, measure, make a list and go shopping.

My philosophy is, If you can afford to spend a few dollars taking care of your skin, you should be able to spend a few dollars taking care of your home and sanctuary.

Make-up Shelf Life List: (In order of shelf life)
• Mascara: 3 months
• Liquid eyeliner: 3-6 months
• Nail Colour: 1 year
• Oil Free Foundation: 1 year
• Concealer: 12-18 months
• Cream Blush: 12-18 months
• Cream Eye Shadow: 12-18 months
• Cream or Compact Foundation: 18 months
• Lip Gloss: 18-24 months
• Lipstick or Liner: 2 years
• Powder: 2 years
• Blush & Bronzer: 2 years
• Powder Eye Shadow: 2 years
• Eyeliner: 2 years

Think some of your collection may be collecting something themselves? Like maybe bacteria and germs?

For the sake of more space and a happy face!