How To Upgrade Makeup Routine After College

College is such an exciting time in your life. However, now that you're an adult, it's time to switch up your beauty routine. Upgrading your makeup routine after college doesn't have to be a struggle. Start by throwing away any expired products. If you've had it for more than a few years, then it's safe to say that it's expired. According to Elle, most products have a shelf life of six months to two years. That's not long at all. So, if you've had a product since freshman orientation, then it's time to throw that sucker in the trash.

The next step is to declutter any useless or unused products. Remember, that glitter eyeliner you had to have for going out? If it's not going to be used at least weekly, then it may not be worth hanging on too. Upgrading your beauty routine is all about starting fresh. It's time to embrace your inner young adult, and banish your old beauty habits. It's a simple way to begin transitioning yourself from the standard college graduate to a young, independent woman. You totally can't go wrong. Wondering where to start? Here are a few easy ways to declutter and upgrade your makeup routine.

1. Old Mascara

Lancôme Mascara, $27.50, sephora.com

Remember that tube of mascara that you stole from your freshman year roommate? Yeah, it's time to throw that sucker away. Upgrade your lashes with a fresh tube of mascara. Try Lancôme's Hypnôse Drama mascara. It's very adult.

2. Throw Out Your Sponge

Real Techniques Sponge, $4.99, target.com

If you've been using the same drugstore cosmetics sponge month-after-month, it may be time for an upgrade. Switch to a more hygienic option like a Beauty Blender or the Real Techniques Complexion sponge.

3. Find The Right Foundation Shade

Cover FX Custom Cover Drops, $44, sephora.com

Stop looking like a ghost in selfies. As a strong, adult woman, you need to find your right foundation shade. A simple solution is to get shade matched at your local beauty counter. If you're in-between color shades, then mix and match shades to create your own specific base.

4. Ditch The Sticky Lipgloss

Revlon Lip Balm, $5.69, target.com

Don't suffer from tacky, sticky lipgloss anymore. Suit up your lips by wearing creamy textured lip colors.

5. Fix Your Eyeliner

Bobbi Brown Gel Eyeliner, $25, sephora.com

There's no need to look like you just got back from a sloppy, frat party. Invest in a long wearing, smudge-proof eyeliner. This way your liner will stay on your eyes, and not end up on your cheeks.

6. Avoid Caked On Makeup

Mario Badescu Facial Spray, $7, mariobadescu.com

Caked on makeup is so sophomore year. Amp up your beauty routine by spritzing your face with a hydrating mist to seal in your makeup. It's a great way to remove excess powder, and add a dewy finish to your look.

7. Break The Mold

Too Faced Country Nashville Nudes Palette, $36, ulta.com

Let's be honest, how long have you been wearing those same two brown eyeshadows? It's time to change up your look by incorporating colorful shadows.

Adulthood doesn't mean you have to be boring. Change up your beauty routine post-college by upgrading your day-to-day makeup.

Images: Pixabay (1); Courtesy Brands