We may be cutting back buying items like clothing and new televisions, but women are still heading to the beauty counter.

News 12's consumer reporter Janice Lieberman tells us how not to waste what we buy and save money.

The cost of cosmetics is sky high, so why waste them? News 12 visited Biogenisis in Paterson, New Jersey where makeup is made, formulated and packaged to see if you really have to toss your expired products or not.

Ann Rabbani owns Biogenisis where cosmetics are made for companies you may see at Sephora and Ulta. Making sure the product is safe and effective is of primary concern.

Do you really need to toss makeup after a certain time, and buy new? Rabbani says it depends on its composition.

She says prices on ingredients, labor and transportation are up 30%, which means it will cost you more at the makeup counter. She recommends buying trial sizes to see if you like the product and then purchasing a larger amount later.

What older makeup can you keep, and what needs to go?

"I think it depends on the product. Mascaras should definitely be tossed out after three months, whether they've been used or not. Lipsticks are good because they're anhydrous. They don't contain water so there's no chance for bacterial growth. They're not dangerous to keep long term. Foundations, moisturizers, cleansers, about nine to 12 months after opened." Rabbani says.

Shadows and blush can live forever, since they don't contain water. Just spray with alcohol to freshen up.

To make your makeup last beyond its expiration date, store it away from moisture - like a bathroom.

Keep them out of the sun as the formula can break down.

Wash your brushes, so bacteria doesn't ruin your blushes and shadows.

If you have a story idea, question or tip, click here to reach out to Janice.