r/ProjectPan • u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 • 4d ago
Failed Pan How do you stop feeling guilty about decluttering old makeup?
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u/audge200-1 17h ago
i feel more guilty when i hold on to it and am reminded i never use it whenever i see it. once i toss it i don’t even think about it again so it honestly relieves the stress to just get rid of it.
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u/kumoboshi 1d ago
I just remember than using things I don't like is also a waste, as it makes me reach the products i like even less and the good stuff could expire
you can donate to makeup artist who works for cemetaries, they will always need it
so you stop using stuff you don't like/potentially expires, you get to use your nice stuff before it expires and you help someone who needs the makeup
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u/_lunar-nova_ 1d ago
I don’t think about it too much. Life is too short to cling onto makeup that no longer brings me joy or is old enough to cause skin issues.
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u/Boring_Load1783 1d ago
i’ve seen on another subreddit that someone sells expired makeup to funeral homes! maybe call some funeral homes in your area if they would purchase anything old and expired!
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u/Additional-Pie-8362 1d ago
Getting rid of a whole bottle of Mac foundation would hurt me ngl
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u/_lunar-nova_ 1d ago
I eventually got used to it. Mac foundations are the only ones that look and behave perfectly on my skin, and the only ones that don’t break me out while they’re within term. However I don’t use them often enough to finish one, and I am halfway through a bottle by the time they are expired and they start breaking me out. Skin issues are easy to trigger and take ages to fix, so I will gladly surrender a half-used bottle of foundation if it means my skin stays healthy.
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u/Additional-Pie-8362 1d ago
Ahhh ok that’s totally understandable. Especially if it breaks you out. I never really thought about that or not even sure if that’s a problem for me 🤔. Now I really wonder if that is a thing that does happen to me and I just don’t notice it.
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u/joan_goodman 2d ago
Lipsticks and any kind of waxy products can use as shoe wax if you have shoes that color . Eye shadow, blush and highlights in powder form - use as pigment for bath bombs or other things (candles, soap if you are crafty). Pencils- usually dry out, throw away. Lotions - use as conditioner for leather furniture, bags, shoes.
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u/Glamourice 3d ago
Think about it from a hygiene perspective. Your face deserves fresher product on it
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u/SavingsSun5124 2d ago
Would like to expand on this - not only deserves, but any bacteria in older products then go on your face, in your eyes, in your mouth towards your digestive tract, your skin absorbs it. Many reasons to not feel guilty about not using them on yourself - your health matters more than that lippie!
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u/Illustrious-Ad-5891 3d ago
The only way to not feel guilty is knowing you will not waste as much again. If you're still buying more than you can use, you will continue feeling guilty
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u/fauxfoucault 1d ago
This is the answer. Now that I don't over purchase makeup, I pan a ton of stuff. I feel good about using it up. On the rare occassion I need to toss something expired, it's just a drop in the bucket. For every 1 thing I trash, I've used up 20 things. I'm happy with that ratio. So the 1 expired thing (usually mascara or eyeliner) doesn't bring me any guilt.
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u/Melzjohnz 3d ago
Just tell yourself, “ welp, I can’t bring all this sh+ with me when I’m dead “ for me… makes it easier ☺️
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u/Midnight_2014 3d ago
Honestly, no idea. I always feel guilty. But honestly, I’d rather feel guilty and do better with my purchases going forward than become desensitised to the point where I stop caring about waste. Throw them out and just be more mindful in the future.
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u/DownwardNova 3d ago
The money is already gone either way, the guilt is about the buying, not the bin. My Animal Crossing storage is full of stuff I will never use and I sleep fine.
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u/Sweet_Job_9449 3d ago
sometimes decluttering means letting go of things that no longer work for you, and thats not a waste at all
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u/ZealousidealSir7059 3d ago
“ACNE ACNE ACNE!”
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u/_lunar-nova_ 1d ago
This is my main reason not to cling onto old stuff. I never had skin issues growing up and gave myself acne in my 30’s!!!! From using expired makeup and skincare that I clung onto out of guilt. It took years and $$$ on treatments to bring my face back to normal! It is so easy to trigger skin issues and so hard to fix them… not worth it!!!
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u/ZealousidealSir7059 10h ago
Yeah it costs more for acne treatment than clinging to old makeup thinking binning it would be wasting your money
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u/Smooth-Ad-8025 3d ago
I justify to myself that the products are expired/off and i havent used them in years and also will not in the future. After that, i feel bad for about a day or two and then forget about ever owning them
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
This is actually really reassuring! ❤️ I finally threw away quite a few products after reading all these comments, and although I didn't feel that huge sense of relief I was expecting, I don't regret it either. I think you're right, in a few days I probably won't even think about those products anymore! 😅
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u/satisfymysoul89 3d ago
I post them on buy nothing FB groups and they always go like hot cakes. Makes me feel better that they found a new home elsewhere
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
That's a great idea for products that are still in good condition! ❤️ Unfortunately, most of the makeup I was struggling to declutter was already very old and had been opened for years, so I wouldn't feel comfortable passing it on to someone else. But I'll definitely keep this in mind for newer products!
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u/satisfymysoul89 2d ago
Ah thanks! I misunderstood what you meant by old makeup! 💄 but yes, you’re right— not safe to give away expired makeup products! Just rip off the bandaid and go on a cleaning/decluttering binge to help get rid of stuff like that. It’s sooo exhilarating once you do it!💙🙏🏽
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u/NoComputer479 3d ago
Declutterring is of course completely okay and a normal part of the process. What defines the process is what happens after that. If you go back to Sephora and buy as much as you gave away then you didn’t declutter but just fuelled your consumption cycle. Just make sure you don’t buy as much as you now have the knowledge that you can’t buy judicially finish the products. You’ve got this!
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
Thank you! ❤️ This is exactly why I started my no-buy in August. I don't want to declutter just to fill the empty space with new products again. My goal is to actually reduce my collection and enjoy what I already own.
Project Pan has really opened my eyes to how long it takes to finish even a single product, and I definitely don't want to go back to my old shopping habits. Hopefully, by the end of the year, I'll see some real progress! ❤️
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u/Odd-Bodybuilder-5830 3d ago
I just got rid of a mascara that's gone rancid. Risking your health is not worth it and using products you don't like/are too old won't get you your money back. Enjoy the makeup you like first before they go bad too :)
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
This is such a good reminder! ❤️ I've been so focused on using up my older products that I sometimes forget my favorites won't last forever either. I recently got rid of an expensive foundation that I was forcing myself to finish, even though I didn't really enjoy using it. I think it's time to stop saving my favorite makeup for later and actually enjoy it now. Thank you! ❤️
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u/sunrisesidhe 3d ago
"The things you own end up owning you."
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
This hits a little too close to home. 😅❤️ I think I've been spending so much time trying to use up and manage my collection that I sometimes forget makeup is supposed to be fun, not another obligation.
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u/hoodie_2_shoes 3d ago
By remembering how my face broke out into hives when I used an expired cream blush. Never felt guilty throwing out expired makeup after that for sure
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
Oh no, that sounds awful! 😳 I'm so sorry that happened to you! I actually just threw away a cream blush that was too old, and reading your comment makes me even more confident that I made the right decision. Thank you for sharing your experience! ❤️
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u/sparkle_elk 3d ago
I don't. I throw out things that have gone off, and I give away things that end up not working for me if I can, but that guilt about wasting money and the world's resources on products that I'm not using up is what keeps me from buying more than I'll use.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
That's a really interesting perspective! ❤️ I think my no-buy and Project Pan have already made me much more aware of how much I used to buy and how long it actually takes to finish a product. I definitely don't want to repeat my old shopping habits, and I hope I can use what I've learned from decluttering to make better decisions in the future. Thank you for sharing!
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u/sparkle_elk 3d ago
It's not the fun and uplifting version, I fully admit! But like... I don't want to get on the Declutter-Reclutter merry-go-round, and guilt/shame are demotivating feelings -- which is exactly what I need, to be prevented from doing something that doesn't serve me or the earth!
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u/solsticeisthebest 3d ago
I start hate panning and then realise that having unnecessary clutter in my life isn't being helpful either.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
I can relate to this so much! 😅 I was hate panning an expensive foundation for months because I felt guilty about wasting the money, even though I didn't like the shade or the formula. I finally threw it away after reading all these comments, and I don't regret it. I'd much rather enjoy the makeup I actually love! ❤️
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u/lucyfell 3d ago
Look up people who developed reactions to makeup they DIDNT declutter
Look up people who never updated
Their makeup and look 50 at 30 because they do makeup like an old lady
Remind yourself you only live once
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
The health risks are definitely something I've been thinking about more after reading all these comments! 😅 I've already thrown away quite a few old products, and I'm trying to focus more on enjoying the makeup I actually love instead of holding on to everything just because I spent money on it. ❤️
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u/No_Obligation3652 3d ago
If it’s expired way beyond recognition, I just tell myself I’m hoarding trash when I could’ve freed some space
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
That's actually a really helpful way to look at it! 😅 I've been struggling so much with the idea of wasting money that I sometimes forget I'm also wasting space by keeping products I no longer want to use. And with the amount of makeup I own, that space really adds up! ❤️
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u/Victory505302 3d ago
I don’t feel as bad when it’s something I don’t like and really prefer not to wear. I got rid of at least a few things that way. I also will make myself use something I don’t like for a month (I’ve been making mini capsule makeup kits each month), which also makes me feel less bad if I toss it after getting some solid use out of it.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
I really like the idea of making monthly capsule makeup kits! ❤️ I have quite a large collection, so I think this could be a great way to rotate through my products and rediscover some forgotten favorites. I might actually give this a try alongside my Project Pan! 😊
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u/Victory505302 2d ago
It’s my in-between attempt at project pan! I know it would take me forever to use up some of my things, even if I stuck to one blush until it was empty, or something like that. So this way I get to use different things and still am shopping my stash. It also makes doing my makeup a little easier because I don’t experience as much decision paralysis 🤣
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u/Rude_Interest97 3d ago
I'm trying to start recycling my empties. Always an option for things you can't finish.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
That's a great idea! ❤️ I've been finishing quite a few products through Project Pan, so I should definitely look into recycling options for the empty packaging. Thank you for the suggestion!
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u/FinnTheBoy0 3d ago
I threw away my conspiracy palette and still highkey regret it. The only collection I was hyped and bought on launch. I only used 4-5 shades and the rest were untouched, no mold, and brand new condition practically. I miss it but try to get past it by thinking about how old it was.
Still kept the James Charles one tho 💀
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
I totally understand this! ❤️ I still have some of my old Too Faced palettes, and I just can't bring myself to get rid of them. I'm attached to the palettes themselves, not just the eyeshadows. I think it's okay to keep a few sentimental pieces, even if we don't use them anymore. 😊
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u/Cademaneko 3d ago
I try to remember when I got it. If it's been 10 years, would I judge someone I know for holding onto a lipstick for that long? Yes, time to let it go
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
Haha, that's actually a really good way to look at it! 😂 I had some makeup that was around 10 years old too, and I finally managed to let go of those products after reading all these comments. It feels a little crazy when I think about how long I'd been holding on to them! 😅❤️
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u/Sophiestication 3d ago
I tell myself this is a learning experience and then I don’t repeat the mistake or Try not to. We are human after all and shit happens. Sometimes I try to see if it’s salvageable for something else depending on the condition of the product or if someone else would benefit if the shade doesn’t work for u or can be used as a contour instead of conceal etc
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
I really like this mindset! ❤️ My no-buy and Project Pan have taught me so much about my shopping habits and what I actually enjoy using. I also love the idea of finding different ways to use products when they don't work for their original purpose. And you're right, we all make mistakes. The important thing is to learn from them and try not to repeat them! 😊
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u/MadameBasmati 3d ago
For eye makeup I really don’t want a stye so I ask, “will this cause me to have a stye?” And if yes I throwaway. For face I ask “will this burn me, or cause a serious breakout in which I cannot attend events for significant amount of time?” If yes: throwaway. If it can cleanse and or clean then I’ll use for my brushes, but skincare, just on the smell alone it was easy to throwaway. It was hard for me too but if the year I remember buying it was distant then I know to throw it away.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
That's actually a really helpful way to look at it! ❤️ I've been struggling with letting go of some of my older makeup, especially eyeshadow palettes that I've had for almost 10 years. I recently decluttered quite a few old products, and I'm slowly learning that keeping something just because I spent money on it doesn't make much sense, especially when it might no longer be safe to use. Thank you for sharing your perspective!
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u/Aggressive-Bee1738 3d ago
Same as eating rotten fruit, you don’t.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
Haha, that's actually such a good comparison! 😂 I've never thought about it that way, but you're absolutely right!
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u/jennilynn510 3d ago
It’s unusable and a risk to your health. Nothing to feel guilty about
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
I agree that powder products can often be used safely for a while beyond their recommended shelf life, especially if they're stored properly. But I don't think they last forever. Just because a product still looks and performs fine doesn't necessarily mean it's safe to use indefinitely.
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u/Such-Examination3500 3d ago
Rarely is my old makeup unusable. Makeup last a long time if kept clean and dry.
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u/YellowGullible1857 3d ago
Guilty for overconsumption or what exactly do you feel guilty about?
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u/random_asian_sprout 3d ago
guilty that you spent the money on that makeup and now you’re “throwing away” the money. at least that’s what i think
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
Exactly! That's a big part of it for me. I know the money is already gone, but throwing away makeup that I barely used, especially expensive products, still feels wasteful. I also feel guilty about how much I bought in the past and how unrealistic it was to think I could ever use it all up. I'm trying to accept that I can't change those purchases, but I can make better decisions going forward.
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u/LCCompromisedBarrier 3d ago
the money was thrown away when you bought it. thinking you're throwing out the money when you declutter is falling for sunk cost fallacy
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u/YellowGullible1857 3d ago
Please answer! I’m pondering!
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
Honestly, both. I feel guilty about how much makeup I bought in the past, but also about throwing away products that still have plenty left in them, especially if they were expensive. I know the money is already gone, but emotionally it's still difficult to let go of things I barely used. I'm working on changing that mindset through my no-buy and Project Pan.
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u/mashibeans 3d ago
Think about it this way, you're putting all this stuff on your face, right on your lips, literally close to your eyeballs, so you're inhaling and ingesting some of it. If it's gone bad or rancid, or it's too dirty in some way, you're just asking for trouble like skin issues at best, some more serious medical problem down the line at worst.
Thank all the ones you're decluttering for their service, even if their purpose was just making you happy you bought them, they fulfilled their purpose in your life and it's OK to let go now.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
I really love the idea of thanking products for the joy they brought, even if I never managed to finish them. ❤️ I think that's a much healthier way to look at decluttering. I do have a few makeup products with sentimental value that I'd like to keep as memories, but I'm slowly learning that I don't need to keep everything just because I once loved it or spent money on it.
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u/mashibeans 2d ago
Yay! you're doing amazing! And yes nothing wrong with keeping some with sentimental value!
Something you could do with some of those if the product itself has gone bad is to maybe take a photo with a note about what memory is linked to it, and then let it go, or maybe even empty it, clean it and refill it with your current products that do work for you, so you can at least use the container (only for those you can safely clean of course)
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u/YellowGullible1857 3d ago
Exactly. If it doesn’t serve you it doesn’t serve you. This is no longer about make up or project pan!!
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u/mashibeans 3d ago
Yeah, in my brain makeup is not like fan merch like plushies or other stuff with sentimental/emotional value, they serve a different, more utilitarian purpose, so if they've gone bad or are not the right fit for me, they gotta go.
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u/Double-Raspberry1836 3d ago
I still feel a little regret decluttering an eyeshadow pallete I had because it was a gift, but then I remember "girl that was from like 2019 and you have dry eyes, keep your face safe!"
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
I can relate to this so much! I have a few old Too Faced eyeshadow palettes that have sentimental value, and these comments have honestly helped me so much. I actually just took them off my makeup shelf and decided to keep them as memories instead of using them.
I know a lot of people in this community are still panning their old Too Faced Chocolate Bar palettes, and seeing that made me feel like I could keep using mine too. But after reading all these comments, I'm starting to think that putting 10+ year-old eyeshadow on my eyes might not be such a good idea after all. I'd rather keep the memories than take the risk. ❤️
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u/casssssss777 3d ago
I can't, i still using my 4 year old Russian Red bc it was reformulated 💔 i always check the smell or the pigmentation, same way with my eyeshadows, just with lipsticks and eyeshadows, with mascara and complexion products i throw them away if they're really old
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
I totally get that! ❤️ It's especially hard to let go of products that have been reformulated or discontinued. I have some old makeup that I'm really attached to as well, especially my Too Faced eyeshadow palettes. Until recently, I was still using them because they looked and performed just fine. But after reading all these comments, I've decided to retire them and keep them for sentimental reasons instead. I'm realizing that just because a product still looks and smells fine doesn't necessarily mean it's safe to use forever.
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u/ednosacct 3d ago
Knowing if it’s past its expiration date and can’t be used cause it’s unsafe and can cause issues. If there’s mold on it. If you’re at the end of the product.
If you want to get rid of good, non-expired makeup and it’s OPEN. I suggest asking friends and family if they would like it. It’s the makeup is UNOPENED, NOT USED, you can give it away to women’s shelters and others places that accept makeup for donations.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 3d ago
Thank you for the suggestions! ❤️ I think donating or giving away products is a great idea when they're still safe to use. Unfortunately, most of the makeup I'm struggling to declutter is already very old and has been opened for years, so I wouldn't feel comfortable passing it on to someone else. I'm trying to accept that sometimes throwing things away is the better option.
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u/ednosacct 3d ago
It’s old and you’re not comfortable I understand. Do what you feel is right. You got your moneys worth from it, that’s a plus!
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u/Pinkybaby_777 3d ago
I used to feel guilty about decluttering old makeup until a lot of people in my country get their lip ruined by expired Rare Beauty lip oil. After that scandal, I can’t stand makeup that is over a year old. I declutter like crazy. Less purchases as well 😔
No expired makeup is worth damaging ur skin!!!!
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
That's honestly scary! 😔 I had no idea about the Rare Beauty lip oil situation. I've been struggling with decluttering old makeup because I feel guilty about wasting money, but reading comments like yours has really helped me rethink things. I've already decided to stop using some of my oldest makeup, especially my 10+ year-old eyeshadow palettes. No amount of money I've spent on makeup is worth risking my health. ❤️
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u/Creativejess 3d ago
I just don’t declutter and then I have nothing to feel guilty about
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u/Useful_Sandwich8868 22h ago
Same! Declutter and closet "editing" can result in just filling up the empty space again. It gets used as a justification to buy MOAR lol.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
Haha, that used to be my strategy too! 😂 But eventually I realized that keeping everything was making me feel overwhelmed as well. Now I'm slowly trying to let go of products I haven't used in years.
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u/ActuatorNo3322 3d ago
Do a swatch and if it looks bad, go ahead and throw away guilt free. It’ll never be useful again. And you could try being brutal about expiration dates and justify it with being health consciousn
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
Thank you! ❤️ I think focusing on my health rather than the money I spent is exactly the mindset I need. The hardest part is that some of my really old makeup still looks and performs perfectly fine, so it's difficult to justify throwing it away. But I'm starting to realize that a product looking good doesn't necessarily mean it's still safe to use.
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u/Moist_Violinist69 3d ago
I throw them out first thing in the morning when I'm half asleep
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
Haha, maybe I should try this! 😂 I tend to overthink every single product before letting it go.
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u/Larvakite 3d ago
I stopped feeling bad when I gave myself an allergic reaction that took months for the scarring and redness to go away. Yeah, I would have rather not wasted the money, but im no longer using it when I know it shouldn't be. If its sentimental, I have a box I keep the special ones in, even when its expired and unusable
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
I'm so sorry you had to go through that! ❤️ I really love your idea of keeping sentimental makeup in a separate box. I've actually just decided to do the same with my old Too Faced eyeshadow palettes. Some of them are over 10 years old, and even though they still look perfectly fine, I don't want to risk using them on my eyes anymore. But I also don't want to throw away the memories attached to them. Keeping them as sentimental items rather than makeup feels like the perfect compromise for me.
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u/Larvakite 22h ago
Thank you 💙 honestly I made it out lucky, im not testing fate again!
Us makeup lovers get attached to items, especially when they are given by loved ones or we have strong feelings with them. It feels good to have them around as momentos. Mine are also 10 years and older! Sounds so silly at first, but honestly, you used something daily to make yourself feel beautiful, brave, able to face the day, hide what youre going through, and honestly shape your day. Of course it means a lot to you!
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u/Bloodthistle 3d ago
I only buy one item of each thing I need but if they go bad I just accept its better to throw than to waste even more money if they give me an infection and I end up at the doctors.
Health is more important
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
You're absolutely right! ❤️ I'm currently on a no-buy because I've accumulated way too much makeup over the years, and I'm trying to change my shopping habits. My long-term goal is to have a much smaller collection with only products I genuinely love and use. And you're right, no makeup is worth risking my health over!
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u/Njbelle-1029 3d ago
It brought joy at the time of purchase but holding onto it no longer brings me that same feeling and I have moved on to appreciate other products. That’s how i know it’s time to let go and focus on the products I actually want to use up instead of forcing myself to hold on and use products that don’t make me happy anymore.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
I really needed to hear this! ❤️ I think I've been holding on to so many products because I remember how excited I was when I bought them, even though I haven't used some of them in years. My collection is still huge, and I'm slowly realizing that I don't need to keep everything just because it once made me happy. I'd much rather focus on the products I genuinely enjoy using now. Thank you for putting this into words!
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u/Njbelle-1029 2d ago
I hear you. The internal tug of war is real. I get over consuming for the sake of having it and maybe even feeling like your part of a community and fear of missing out on the best new product is a nasty vice, but if you really love the product and enjoy it, then there is nothing wrong with that collection. But when you no longer love it, you have to let go. I have palettes that have like sparkly electric blue eyeshadow that I will never wear. BUT it brings me joy to swatch it and play with it and wipe it off, so it stays knowing I will never use it up.
Use the stuff you love, toss the stuff you don’t, and don’t beat yourself up if you happen to love a lot of it.
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u/Pinkbunny120 3d ago
I always try to learn something from the products I declutter. What didn’t I like about it…was it the formula, the color, the packaging etc, then I don’t repeat the mistake.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
This is such a good way to look at decluttering! ❤️ I've been going through my makeup collection recently, and I'm realizing that just because I loved something when I bought it doesn't mean I still enjoy using it today. I'm trying to learn from my past purchases instead of forcing myself to use up products I don't really like. Hopefully, this will help me make better choices in the future!
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u/elasticafantastica 3d ago
Not relevant but I miss Skin Paradise so damn much
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
Yesss, I loved it so much! 😭❤️ Unfortunately, mine has been open for over three years, so it's time to let it go.
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u/sxngbird 3d ago
I remind myself that my stash ain't really that bad compared to others I've seen 😅
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
Haha, I do the same sometimes! 😅 But then I remind myself that just because someone else has more makeup than I do doesn't mean I don't have way too much myself. 😂
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u/tralalalalalalalala_ 3d ago
I got a mini desk trash bin for free and keep them in there. As a reminder never over buy again!
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
I love this idea! 😂❤️ I've been on a no-buy since August, and seeing all my empties together is so satisfying. It's also a reminder of just how much I've accumulated over the years and why I don't want to go back to my old shopping habits.
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u/d3rp7d3rp 3d ago
I went through my hoard recently and the amount of stinky expired or empty and didn't realize it makeup made me feel so good to get rid of! It freed up a lot of space and felt like a weight was lifted. However before that big declutter, well, clearly i had trouble letting go otherwise it wouldn't have gotten that bad lol. I guess it depends on how fed up i am with it
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
I can relate to this so much! 😅 I've been decluttering my makeup collection recently, and it was really hard to let go of things at first, especially products I've had for years. But the more I declutter, the easier it gets. I haven't freed up a huge amount of space yet, but at least everything that used to sit on top of my cabinet now fits inside it. 😂 Still a long way to go!
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u/manicpanit 3d ago
You bought it with the intention of using it and liked it and sometimes we overestimate what we can use up. Don't dwell too much on it ❤️
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
Thank you, I really needed to hear this! ❤️ I think I underestimated just how long makeup actually takes to use up, especially when I enjoy switching between different products. I'm trying to be more realistic about what I can actually finish and learn from my past shopping habits.
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u/AllisonT_ 3d ago
Give it to friends, donate or garbage 🗑️.... I do small declutters every other month. You get over it once it becomes a habit.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
I agree that regular decluttering makes it easier! ❤️ But I'm not really comfortable giving used makeup to friends, especially lip products, mascara or anything that comes into direct contact with my skin. I wouldn't want to use someone else's used makeup either. 😅 I'm fine with sharing things like perfumes or certain skincare and hair products, but makeup is where I draw the line. I'd rather throw away old products than pass them on to someone else.
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u/ChivalrousSnail 3d ago
I think of it more like an experience. Makeup is fun... I'm paying to try it. I like trying new things, so I'm not buying something with the idea that I will use it fully.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
That's an interesting way to look at it! 😊 I used to get so much joy just from owning beautiful makeup, especially expensive products. I loved them so much that I was actually afraid to use them up. But over the years, I ended up with a huge collection of products I barely used, and now I see that as wasteful. I still love trying new makeup, but I'd rather enjoy and actually use what I already own. These days, finishing a product I love would make me happy because it means it served its purpose. ❤️
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u/retrocede_ 3d ago
Honestly, the money is already spent. You’re not getting anything back by keeping it. Sure, you might not buy another blush because you already this one to use! But if you don’t like the blush you already have, you’re going to buy a new one anyways right? Sometimes keeping it costs you in time, anxiety, feelings of guilt, storage space, etc. Does it benefit you more to throw it away? How much would you pay to never see that product again? This frees you up to get good, meaningful use out of the expensive products that you truly love and truly feel like yours.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
That last sentence really hit home for me! ❤️ I used to save my expensive makeup for special occasions because I was afraid of using it up. Meanwhile, I kept using products I didn't enjoy as much, just to finish them. I've been decluttering recently, and I'm slowly realizing that keeping something out of guilt doesn't undo the money or resources I've already wasted. I still hate waste, but I want to actually enjoy the beautiful products I already own instead of letting them sit unused until they expire.
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u/sturgeon_tornado 3d ago
that's what I tell myself too, exactly what do I get out of keeping this? money is gone, I do not feel any joy using them, and if the only thing keeping me from throwing them out is guilt, it's time to let go
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u/Mademoiselle__nat 3d ago
You know, there was a time when I did not understand my color type, my skin undertone , what colors make my skin look fresh, and what type of makeup enhances my complexion . So I bought a lot useless makeup products. Now I don’t know what to do with them, I won’t use them, and I can’t throw them away… thank you
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u/sturgeon_tornado 3d ago
if you have friends who are actively trying colors/undertones, it may be a good use. but otherwise, be kind to yourself too! no one can 100% guarantee each purchase is to their liking!
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u/Mademoiselle__nat 3d ago
No, I’m only one who loves makeup) I’m really understand you-color season, skin undertone are very important! I only recently figured out what my skin undertone is, why certain things suit me so well while others don’t, and which clothing colors can really "brighten up" my appearance. Honestly, I think an olive skin undertone is really tricky—it’s hard to pin down (especially if it’s a light olive shade)—so it’s great that you figured it out. I spent a fortune myself; I used to think I just had pale skin, so most concealers were either stark white or looked yellow on my face. I know what I need now, but it’s such a shame about the money I wasted! Then again, we wouldn't have gained that experience otherwise.
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u/sturgeon_tornado 3d ago
oh no worries we all have that time, I'm recently being told I am actual a bit olive, which might be the answer to why all these years I've never had good matches for foundations and blushes....I am actively trying different colors and saturation of blush and I buy the 2-3 dollar ones telling myself these are for color trying and mixing.....even then I still feel some guilt over products not working out, well, better than spending 30 bucks I guess....
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u/Mademoiselle__nat 3d ago
Thank you , I’m really feel better, your post changed my attitude to this problem 😍
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u/hotandblonde 4d ago
i did it by knowing how hard i take care of my skin, and if something looks or smells off despite how much i spent on it or liked it, it’s not worth it. it pains me, don’t get me wrong. but i can’t keep stuff that’s potentially unsafe or will break me out.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
I completely agree! ❤️ I've been decluttering makeup I've had for years, and it's especially hard to let go of products I once loved or spent a lot of money on. But I've realized that keeping them won't bring that money back, and risking my skin just isn't worth it. I'd rather enjoy the products I have that are still safe to use.
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u/Ambitieus 4d ago
I think about how I save my face from getting eczema, rashes, acne and pimples when using very old make-up and that makes me feel a bit better throwing the very old things away.
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u/anguiila 4d ago
Depends.
Usually i first discard anything that smells off, is dried out, or the formula separated and/or oxidizes. i won't put guilt over my health/safety, the money was already spent on that product and there's nothing i can do about the past but learn from it. I'll take note or write down why i bought it, and why i ended up ignoring it until it expired.
If it's a neglected product but still wearable, i haven't had any adverse reaction to it, and i'm not quite sure about it, i use it for 2 or more weeks in my daily routine and/or pre-shower makeup experiments. After the 2 weeks (or more), if it just continues to get in the way of the routine, i can't use it in a different or i find that it's not a flattering shade/texture at all, then i understood how the product performs on my skin, and make a decision to declutter based on experience. That way, i'll avoid buying similar products in the future.
I alway try to remember that things will expire, so there's no reason to keep something for a "special day", if anything, make everyday special and don't let your hard earned money go to waste.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
I absolutely love your last sentence! ❤️ I used to save my expensive makeup for special occasions because I was afraid of using it up. Looking back, it's so ironic that I was trying to make those products last longer, but some of them ended up expiring before I could really enjoy them. I'm on a no-buy now and trying to change that mindset. I want to use the products I genuinely love, even on an ordinary Tuesday, instead of constantly trying to finish the ones I like less. And I really like your idea of learning something from every product you declutter!
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u/Unlikely-Olive1444 4d ago
I think this answer is going to vary greatly. I think the guilt will be there but it is important to acknowledge and not just fling stuff in the trash as an excuse to go out and buy 15 more products you don't need or won't use up before it become the next batch of old makeup.
So in short, acknowledge the guilt and overconsumption and try to not repeat the same mistake. Spend mindfully, return what you don't think you like or will use, and don't overpurchase just for the thrill of something new.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
I completely agree with this! ❤️ I really hate waste, and decluttering has made me realize just how much I've overconsumed over the years. I grew up in a family where we rarely threw anything away, so letting go of products is especially difficult for me. But I also know that keeping old makeup out of guilt won't undo the waste. I've been on a no-buy since August, and my goal isn't to make room for more products, but to learn from my past purchases, appreciate what I already own, and never let my collection get this out of hand again.
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u/retrocede_ 3d ago
This! So much comes down to buying habits. Having more doesn’t automatically mean you aren’t still buying more. Sometimes I find myself thinking, “Man I wish I could just use this NARS blush that I love every day, but I HAVE to use this Milani one that I bought on impulse 3 years ago or else I’m being wasteful.” Nope. Better to use the one you love.
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u/SnowFlakesinSummer29 2d ago
This is exactly what I've been struggling with! 😭❤️ I have so many products I genuinely love, but I keep reaching for the ones I like less because I feel like I need to finish them first. I've been on a no-buy since August and I'm trying to change my shopping habits, but I think I also need to change the way I use my makeup. I don't want to keep saving my favorites while forcing myself to use products that don't make me feel as good. Makeup is supposed to be fun!
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u/Ok-Airport1992 4d ago
I donate mine, makes me feel marginally better
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u/kathpt 3h ago
I always feel bad when I throw things out but it only lasts a couple hours and then I realize weeks later I never even thought about them again because I wasn’t using them.