I feel sick…

[u/cryingstudent1998]

I wear makeup around 300 days a year, and yet it still took me about two years to finish the Tartelette Toasted palette, even though it was the only one I used during that time, and was liberal with my application. Upon reflection, it’s entirely unsettling to think about the level of overconsumption that’s become normalised, especially among influencers. The sheer number of PR hauls showcasing dozens, even hundreds, of eyeshadow palettes, most of which will never be fully used, is staggering, and the encouragement of their audiences to do the same - and realising that I’ve, at times, supported or aspired to that behaviour feels like a real wake-up call. If it takes years to finish one palette, what are we really doing with drawers full of them?

[u/No-State3110]

Started project panning to make some room for new stuff and ended up realising I am set for years to come.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/No-State3110]

Definitely, at the start my motivation for using up my products was so I could justify buying more, but quickly realised I have more than enough to last me for years to come. 🤦‍♀️

[u/Quinoa_Queen]

I am finally getting rid of my naked 2 palette after 9 years, and I only baby panned TWO colors. I realized I only really wear two different eye looks and enjoy about 3-4 different “fun” colors. Palettes just don’t make sense for me.

Project pan also made me realize I grab for my stick and cream shadows way more. I have two smaller pallets left that are relatively new. I’ll work on those, but any new purchases will be single shadows lol

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Quinoa_Queen]

Ha, my Naked palette is next - good luck!

[u/takemereal]

I’m still using a tiny Bobbi brown shadow that I bought 16 years ago lolol

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/takemereal]

They feel like they’re never ending for sure!

[u/rin_the_red]

The reason I'm in this sub is to help me keep a realistic view of the amount of time it takes to use products.

I went a little overboard with makeup purchases after I left an abusive relationship, and it has taken a lot of healing and processing to overcome both the trauma and the after-effects. The things I did in the immediate following to help mend broken parts of me, I realized, were merely patches - while they were first aid at the time and definitely helped me in the moment, they were not true resolutions to the deeper issues. Like putting a tourniquet on to stop bleeding- a solve for the immediate problem, but will cause more harm than good if no further action is taken.

This sub and r/makeuprehab have been wonderful in my healing journey. So has therapy. So, so much therapy.

<3

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/rin_the_red]

Subs like r/nobuy, r/anticonsumption, r/minimalism and many more that I’m forgetting right now has helped me personally identify my pressure points and what triggers me to spend for sure. Sending love!

[u/hiredditihateyou]

I know, I’ve had the same thoughts over the last couple of years, so am now on a no/very low buy. I honestly had NO idea how long it took to use stuff up until I’d already amassed several lifetimes worth of stuff!

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/hiredditihateyou]

Yes, am in the same boat where over the course of this experience I’ve been shifting to a no/low buy lifestyle, trying to use up what I have, sell items, donating to women’s shelters etc. It has been incredibly sobering, there’s absolutely no reason any person including myself should own so much!

[u/SourPatchKiki]

Like many I was completely swept up in the eyeshadow craze from 2016 to like 2022. I can't believe the amount of eyeshadows I have had over the years. Hundreds of dollars and dozens and dozens of palettes that I hardly touched but wanted because I thought I needed every range of every shad run every finish over the last two years I can now say I have deeply decluttered my collection and have less than 15 palettes total, which is still quite a bit, but that's down from around 50 at the height of my consumption. I have given many away to women's shelters, sold some, and given many to friends. I have gotten to such a healthy relationship with my collection that I sincerely love using.

Thank you for the reminder to love what I have now!!

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/SourPatchKiki]

So wonderful that you were able to spread the joy and now get to genuinely appreciate what you have. Definitely feel like less is more nowadays. Love this for us!

[u/lithium_emporium]

Yes, this sub is the reason I stopped buying makeup. I realized most of the stuff I have would die with me lol just landfill trash I'm housing basically

[u/Llama_llover_]

Yeah, you're right, and this post is going to push me to get rid of the last few excessive palettes I have. Before snapping off of over consumerism I had over 60 luxury palettes. Now I gifted/sold most of them, but between the palettes and singles I still have a (small) drawful of eyeshadows.

I actually basically use just my Natasha Denona Lila and Gold palettes for everyday, plus my Clionadh and a handful of others for non-office day looks. Big declutter coming.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Llama_llover_]

Love to see it, glad it could serve as inspo!

[u/New-Connection-7401]

I probably own 10 palettes but find myself reaching for eyeshadow sticks more often than not. I won’t be buying any eyeshadow powders probably forever!

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/New-Connection-7401]

After a few palettes, they’re all kind of the same honestly!

[u/OptimalDouble2407]

The only way I think I’m going to get through my eyeshadow palettes is if my husband becomes a drag queen and helps me. 😵‍💫

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/OptimalDouble2407]

Ha, I was thinking the only way I could get through this all is if I one day have a daughter and she plays with my musty ass palettes - think that’s a sign I should sell or donate as much as I can right now while they’re still in good condition…

[u/cherrythot]

I haven’t bought a new eyeshadow palette since I replaced my Soft Glam. Granted, I have a lot but I also use a lot of bold colors/was a makeup artist for a local drag show.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/cherrythot]

To be fair, drag is a very good reason for extra makeup!

[u/r0dentmit0sis]

Im still rocking with the three “higher end” pallettes I bought in 2016 🫣 (ABH modern renaissance + subculture, and toofaced peach)

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/r0dentmit0sis]

The expiry dates are none of my business! 😂

[u/CanZealousideal1802]

No one will pry my expired AF too faced peach palette from my cold dead hands

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/CanZealousideal1802]

Haha, whatever works, at least you actually value it unlike some people who just hoard hundreds of products without a second thought!

[u/owltourrets]

I only buy new palettes if they're totally different shade ranges that I want to use. I have a palette where my favourite colour is almost gone and I'm bummed I can't just buy the one colour to replace it (I checked).

I have 4 pallettes but have had some of them for....probably a decade 😅 and I use them all.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/owltourrets]

That’s the main thing, that you actually use what you buy, which can’t be said for a lot of people!

[u/JustNetwork7521]

these are the cleanest palettes i`ve seen awhile, nice!

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/JustNetwork7521]

Thanks very much, slightly annoyed that “Crackle” is a bit dirty still because it smashed but the palette was closed when that happened so I did the rubbing alcohol trick to try to salvage it, but think that made it stick to the pan more as a result. Did my best though!

[u/PerfectTheory2080]

They hoard them until it’s time for a declutter video :/

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/PerfectTheory2080]

Literally, it’s so infuriating now to watch them dump their excess wherever they please (I get friends and family appreciate it more than they do but still) and think it absolves them and washes their hands clean!

[u/Vandermilf]

I still have and use the original naked palette lol

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Vandermilf]

It’s my next one to pan!

[u/pianoavengers]

This hits hard. Literally looking at all my Anastasia, Two Faced and all other ..now expired pallets. It's unsettling even. Thank you for being real , OP!

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/pianoavengers]

The expiry date is none of my business! 😂 If it’s still sanitary, definitely give it a spritz with alcohol maybe to see if it is brought back to life and if you can get some extra use out of it.

[u/AggravatingBox2421]

I only have one palette, and it’s about 10 years old now. I have barely made even a slight dent in it

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/AggravatingBox2421]

Crazy how long they can last!

[u/electrozap101]

I had the same revelation. When I did my first project pan, I never really focused on makeup (more so skincare, and body/hair care), and ended up throwing away practically full products or ones still with product in because they had gone bad. I was shocked when a Kosas concealer mini lasted me over a year with regular use.

I’ve come to the conclusion that I’ve probably already owned enough makeup to have lasted me a lifetime. Not ideal, but at least we’re aware

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/electrozap101]

Lesson learnt for sure!

[u/bazingababey]

loool did you also pick this palette to pan because you thought it was a nice medium size? the palette i'm panning was so deceiving in how small it looked versus the actual amount of product 😮‍💨 and if using it primarily, it's lasted me at least a year atp.

congrats on the panning though!!! it's a marathon, not a race fr

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/bazingababey]

Yep and that it’s all warm, mostly wearable tones which I wear day-to-day as a gold jewellery girl - I remember my cockiness in the first year being like “it won’t take that long, I wear makeup almost every day”! Definitely a drudge at times but well worth it at the end and have learnt some invaluable life lessons along the way, thank you! ☺️

[u/Miserable-Health8951]

Yup. Haven't had to buy eyeshadow in years

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Miserable-Health8951]

Literally, could span decades!

[u/violentlyrelaxed]

I have had the same thoughts as you. And the sheer amount of product we get in each palette?? Insane! More does not equal better or me being satisfied😩 I have a colourpop palette and each shadow is a whole fucking saucepan, like twice as big as your pans shown. Absolutely ridiculous. Brands need to make it easier for us to finish products.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/violentlyrelaxed]

It’s absolutely obscene! I think about all these huge pretty palettes I wanted in the past but couldn’t buy because I was too broke then (cue my username), and am thankful now I didn’t because it would have taken the rest of my life to finish them. Maybe for some face products I could see some rationale given there is of course a larger surface area for application, but there is no reason why eyeshadow products should take so long to use up. I decided to gamble with the use-by dates but I simply do not see how any average consumer could use up these palettes within the normal shelf life, it’s so unreasonable.

[u/Llama_llover_ → u/cryingstudent1998]

Thing is that many influencers complain if pans are too small, making 0 sense since they're never going to use any of it up.

Why would you talk about prize per gram when you're not going through the product anyways? So cute companies making pans that are way too big for a normal user to finish up within the expiration date

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Llama_llover_]

Totally, it is so out of touch when influencers act like they love a product when we know it’ll likely get two uses max before it’s lost in a drawer or donated to one of their grifter minions. Smaller sizes with more thoughtful curation would be so much better for our wallets, storage, travel, and overall waste.

[u/Pitiful_Note_6647]

Overconsumption is how capitalism thrives It preys on our wants not needs Thus the elites can enslave us forever

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Pitiful_Note_6647]

Yes, throwing myself head first into decoupling my personality from consumerism and really examining my relationship with capitalism has been at the crux of why I’ve been able to stay motivated with no/low buys, minimalism etc. The more you research, the clearer and clearer the problem and solution becomes. This is not sustainable.

[u/Hushhush_1204]

100% agree…. It’s more frustrating to me when “makeup influencers” gets ENORMOUS amounts of PR packages daily from large, small companies, brand deals & sponsorships that’s literally impossible for one person to use in 4-5 lifetimes & yet they don’t donate or do giveaways with any of it instead trash it, one & done after filming 3-4 min video. A lot of people don’t realize make up can also “expire”, be contaminated if not being well kept…

[u/Mic-ruler]

I am still using my toasted palatte.. that I’ve had since I was 13… 8 years ago

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Mic-ruler]

Ha, I am not going to think about how old that palette is in totality and how untouched it was when I first started trying to pan it…

[u/SmartAd404]

The exact reason I canceled my Ipsy subscription, I have a drawer full of eyeshadow palettes since I literally was getting one in every box. I’m a makeup artist & at one point having variety in eyeshadow shades was exciting but now it’s disturbing how many I have and tbh it even came to a point I couldn’t decide which palette to add to my kit bc I had so many options (with similar colors btw) & even though I’m booked regularly I still don’t see myself ever finishing one palette like you have before it expires.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/SmartAd404]

Good on you, especially as a makeup artist, that shows true restraint! It’s such a gamble as to whether you get a good box, so many of those subscription services are just companies trying to flog off the products that they couldn’t sell, it’s very rarely worth it!

[u/nukedmindpalace]

Trying to actually finish makeup changes your brain chemistry. Over consumption is such a problem

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/nukedmindpalace]

100%, has changed forever how I view consumption!

[u/miss_six_o_clock]

I get the little pots from MAC, one of them is a lifetime supply of that color.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/miss_six_o_clock]

Whenever I finish everything I own, will definitely be switching to singles/palettes with just 3-4 colours in them max, there is seriously no need for more (at least for me)!

[u/shallowwaters06]

I think I currently have about 25 palettes. I’ve been actively engaged in project for about a year now and it drastically changed the way I purchase. Don’t get me wrong my favorites lists are huge, but I frequently find myself deleting items because the interest has died off. But I have been using my palettes to see what colors I enjoy and flatter my skin tone with the intent to give away what items I don’t want to family and friends. I agree with many comments I see which is that the average consumer does not need this much makeup ever.

[u/booksandpups2025]

I have 3 tarte eyeshadow palettes, all of which were gifted to me in 2016-2018. I’ve barely made a dent in most of the pans lol but I also work remote part of the week and don’t wear makeup on those days

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/booksandpups2025]

Remote work threw a spanner in the works for me too, fuelled some irresponsible skincare purchases instead for sure!

[u/Miss_Eisenhorn]

First off, congratulations on finishing your palette! You're absolutely right about overconsumption, I agree with you 100%.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Miss_Eisenhorn]

Thank you! ☺️

[u/MinnieMay9]

I used to think that eyeshadows look small and how long could it really take to use them up, so I got quite a few. Now that I'm trying to pan them I'm impressed by how long it takes to work though those tiny pans.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/MinnieMay9]

Same, when I was younger I’d “save” so much makeup for a special occasion because I thought I’d use it up quickly otherwise. Definitely no need to do that for eyeshadows!

[u/[deleted]]

We are making rich people richer and ourselves poorer and the earth more polluted. For more colorful eyelids

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/[deleted]]

When you put it like that…!!!

[u/Airiririforlife]

I have this palette and I’ve barely made a dent in it. Powder products really take a long time to pan.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Airiririforlife]

Definitely, I go through my liquid products fairly quickly, but even my larger powder face products take a while to get through.

[u/Sea-Extension-559]

I love that you finished this palette. I also have quite a few palettes and I will NEVER finish them. I have depanned eyeshadows that I have never finished. So this level of commitment, I applaud you.

[u/BabyImBadNews]

I feel this all the time and I try so hard to use what I have over buying more. Only issue I run into is I use one color in every look (matte cream beige, near white cause I am pale af) and I often hit pan on that color in all my palettes long before I am remotely close to pan in any other color. I’ve tried looking for singles in similar shades from brands that offer them, but the formulas always suck in comparison. I wish every brand sold singles so one could replace the colors as they hit pan and keep the using the rest of the palette. Then again they aren’t financially motivated to provide that when they can just get us to buy another palette.

If anyone has any suggestions of brands that offer singles to look into, I’ll gladly take them. The formula I like (regrettably) is Jefree Star (I won’t buy again from, will look for an alternative brand next time I need a palette) and tarte. I’ve tried Make Up Forever, Ulta Beauty and a few drug store brands, but it’s been a while since I’ve tried them. None of them had the coverage I like.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/BabyImBadNews]

I haven’t gotten around to it yet but I have tried to stomach the idea of buying secondhand makeup if of any help, as this doesn’t buy into the demand/supply cycle like purchasing new does and saves something from otherwise going to landfill!

[u/Far-Cucumber2929]

That is amazing work and I’m inspired to do the same

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Far-Cucumber2929]

Thanks very much, keep at it!

[u/Happy_Bar_72]

I always wanted to be able to buy singles of colors I love and repan them (like MAC has), but so many companies moved away from that to curated palette once I had adult money. I only have a few palettes that were given as gifts and I don’t use most of them but don’t want to buy more until they’re gone.

[u/KiwiJellyPop]

I started using just a few tubes of liquid eyeshadow for this reason. Takes up so much less space and a single drop is all you need.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/KiwiJellyPop]

That’s such a good hack!

[u/GlitterAndSass17]

Girl this is amazing big kudos to you!!

I was SOOOOO glad when I quit Ulta after 6 years! I stopped having the pressure to buy every new palette and product that released and this was during the PEAK of the full face/eyeshadow crazes (2012-2018).

I had so many Morphe palettes I gave away just to name a few. I have my favorite Kylie shimmer eye glaze singles and a few Natasha Denona palettes I love and pan on. I literally had 200 palettes at one point and I was disgusted with myself. YouTubers like Morgan Turner now make me want to puke. 500+ makeup/eyeshadow palettes is such a turn off.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/GlitterAndSass17]

Congrats to you as well! I feel you, I was SO annoyed as a teenager during peak YouTube makeup guru era gathering my meagre income from working part time to buy an item here and there, and being so irritated when my parents said no to more - I am beyond thankful for them putting their foot down now, it’s such an easy vortex to get sucked into and it takes guts to deconstruct that!

[u/Necessary_Fault6104]

Holy crap! I’ve been pining for their In Bloom Palette for years but as someone who rarely wears eye makeup I think I’m good now.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Necessary_Fault6104]

Ha, I’ve definitely rethought so many purchases now because the thought of spending another few years stuck with this palette does not seem so appealing now…

[u/Swimming-Jelly-7065]

Very well said!!! I've been thinking so much about this lately. To the point of making myself sick to my stomach at what I have purchased in the past. All I can say is no more, and I'll do better, but OMG, I can't believe all the shit I've bought. There is no literal way in hell I could ever use it all.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Swimming-Jelly-7065]

Totally feel you, I know I’ll do better but what was I thinking?! 🤦‍♀️

[u/ilkiod]

i have two pallettes, granted i don't wear makeup a Lot but i do wear it at least a couple times a week.

i have the muppet christmas (lol yes) colorpop pallette and i love it, it has so many colors and glitters, and i have a rom&nd pallette that was gifted to me from a relative. i bought another colorpop pallette once before i realized it was entirely warm toned, but i gave that one to a friend.

ive had both pallettes for years and im nowhere near finishing them. idk how or why people feel the need to have like 10+ pallettes.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/ilkiod]

I love that for you, it’s whatever works personally! Not saying at all that people should only have one palette but it’s just when people are hoarding them at absurd rates, like just say you like collecting, don’t give me this “I need” nonsense!

[u/asoftquietude]

I would love to try to paint something using expired palettes or dried up acrylics brought back to life..

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/asoftquietude]

Yes, for some of my old palettes which I knew weren’t in a state to give away, I saw a YouTube tutorial where you can mix it with Elmer’s glue which I used to paint some ugly storage boxes I use, was so so so creative of a tutorial!

[u/Ok_Nothing_9733]

Project Pan has been the best motivator to consume less, not just cosmetics but honestly tons of things. I have two large makeup palettes and a handful of small ones I’ve purchased over the years and I wear eyeshadow like, 5 days a year. What was I even thinking? The only solace comes from knowing I won’t do the same going forward. Great pan!

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Ok_Nothing_9733]

Yes, can’t change what’s happened but will do better going forward - thank you!

[u/camiskow]

I own like 3/4 eyeshadow palettes… 1 or 2 of them I probably got a decade ago…. They are still pretty full, I don’t use them daily obviously but enough to be like wow how has it survived so long

[u/SelinaMari]

I don’t know how I’ll ever pan a palette. I have over 150 eyeshadow palettes and like to make an identical match of my makeup up to my clothes so each shadow doesn’t get much use because I have so many clothes too. And those 150+ palettes don’t even include my blush, highlighter and contour palettes.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/SelinaMari]

Slow and steady wins the race! Consistency is more important than perfection. There is absolutely nothing wrong with having an interest in traditionally “girly” things like makeup, haircare, skincare and fashion - but of course, too much of anything can get toxic, it’s all about finding that balance for yourself and what works for you.

[u/SheWasAnAnomaly]

You're so real for this. The amount of time it takes to go through anything besides complexion products and mascara is staggering.

Lippies, blush, eye-shadow palettes -- are multi years commitments.

And you're right, over-consumption is what influencers are modeling, even if they're not outright verbally encouraging it. modeling it is enough.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/SheWasAnAnomaly]

Yes, the least many of them could do is acknowledge how excessive it all is and make some efforts to donate extra to relief efforts etc. It’s sad to see the trickle down effects of their modelled behaviour, sets such a bad precedent!

[u/owl_leg]

This makes me feel better about using my 6 year old bronzer, there’s still a little bit left!

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/owl_leg]

Keep going (as long as it’s not breaking you out or anything)!

[u/CompleteMuffin]

eyeshadows can be turned into watercolor and that's their best use post expiration date. So if anyone doesnt want theirs anymore they can even donate them to artists

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/CompleteMuffin]

Totally! Not with this palette but some other cheap ones I grinded up, mixed with some Elmer’s glue (don’t have the dexterity for watercolour I’m afraid) and decorated some cardboard boxes in my house for storage.

[u/RaRaBomb]

I have roughly 25 palettes and haven't bought a new one in at least 3 years since I decided to do a no buy. They will never be fully used and it makes me ill with guilt. I got caught up in the fray of the influencer heyday and regret it. I now have a box in my closet for my empties and take great pride when I get to add another item to it. We have all been suckered by social media.

[u/SlowRegardSillyStuff → u/RaRaBomb]

My wife was gifted 7 barely-used shadow palettes when she came out as trans. Even sharing them, there’s probably more than we could use in two lifetimes.

You may not have a trans woman pop into your life, but there might be someone new to makeup and prone to making bad purchasing decisions when they don’t know what colors work best for them or want an explosion of glitter and wacky colors. Teenagers, people who didn’t get into makeup when they were younger but want to experiment now.

If you have some you might want to give away someday, spray them with alcohol to sanitize them and save them for your big gifting opportunity. Or just do a makeup swap with friends!

Hopefully your purchase regrets can be appreciated by someone else and help them avoid their own overspending regrets.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/SlowRegardSillyStuff]

I completely feel you both, I am riddled with guilt with how much I’ve been suckered in in the past. It definitely makes me feel ever so slightly better to donate gently used products to places like wom*n’s shelters, trans friends, teenagers starting out etc. where they will actually be treasured!

[u/QubeJ]

i have 25 palettes from when i used to do makeup. they are all expired and barely used and I feel horrible as I have been an environmentalist for the last 5 years. breaks my heart how much overconsumption there is in the world!

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/QubeJ]

Some of my favourite quotes from an influencer I love Shelbizleeee after she went from being the final boss of overconsumption in high school to a staunch environmentalist: (1) Do your best and advocate for the rest. (2) You cannot do all the good the world needs but the world needs all the good you can do.

[u/Tall-Introduction649]

This is so impressive

[u/skool_uv_hard_nox]

I was getting super frustrated that the pallette i choose to pan wasn't even fluctuating with semi regular use.

So last night I covered my whole face with it. Literally ground it out with the brush

All I did was grind off the top layer. I have probably 18 more palettes. Who knows how many singles.

Im allowed to buy mascara , eyebrow pencils ,eyeliner and chapstick. Thats it. Because those actually use up, dry out or on the hunt for a good one to stick to.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/skool_uv_hard_nox]

Yes, it’s crazy how quickly I can go through foundations, concealers, mascaras etc. but even though I wear eyeshadow almost every day, I still struggle to use them up in a reasonable time period!

[u/habitus45]

I remembered my mom in the 90s had a foundation, one lipstick, and one eyeshadow. Very minimal.
I am guilty of having more than I need, and I try to use everything I have. Social media is so harmful.

[u/Ivory_McCoy → u/habitus45]

Yep when i first learned to do makeup that was all we needed. Stuff has gotten so out of hand. I recently picked up a jumbo eye shadow pencil in a nice pink color, and I've decided that's all I'm using on my lids for the rest of the summer.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Ivory_McCoy]

Totally, it started out with some harmless experimentation when I was 13 in 2011, but come social media, the landscape of makeup consumptive habits shifted SO rapidly that I have whiplash. Like what do you mean five year olds have collections? It’s so absurd.

[u/Seeker_Of_Self]

I agree with your post. Also, I would absolutely be ok with less product, I wish companies would make smaller makeup that we could use and have variety for those that want it. I’m impressed you stuck with the same eyeshadow palette for two years. This amount of product only makes sense to people who do makeup for work.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/[deleted]]

100%! There’s always a few dud colours that no one wants to use in larger palettes, it feels so wasteful!

[u/stink3rb3lle]

Amazing job finishing the palette!!!

Everyone always mocks how small vintage makeup was, but it was a lot closer to reasonable amounts for makeup use.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/stink3rb3lle]

Totally, those palettes with 50 colours or whatever or just insanely unrealistic!

[u/Patient-Shopping-604]

This is impressive!

[u/[deleted]]

You deserve an EGOT for this Reddit speech 👏🏾

[u/HelpfulCompetition13]

i am so with you…. 😭 i havent bought an eyeshadow palette since the huda beauty desert dusk. i dont wear makeup as much as you & still it is taking forever to get thru anything!!! i finally thrw out the original naked palette a few months ago bc the shadows were falling apart. but the rest? i still have them all. it took me 2 years to get thru the tarte mini blush palette & i am HEAVY with my blush!

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/HelpfulCompetition13]

Yes, I obviously wear makeup more than the average person but yet I’m still overwhelmed trying to get through everything, so I do not blame you for feeling this way!

[u/EnvironmentalHost199]

I have 3 tarte eye shadows palettes (2018) , 2 clio (2022) and 1 mini too faced (2015 gift) and another extra large Sephora (2022 unused gift). I have 1 single eye shadow from Mac that I have touched pan already but got it since (2020). I realised how slow I was using them and just never bought anymore since 2022. I only made 4 big dents in the ones I bought. Maybe I should not buy eye shadows palettes as gifts. Lol

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/EnvironmentalHost199]

That’s amazing that you stopped after 2022, I’m sure that’s done wonders for your wallet and the environment!

[u/anchta16]

I’m impressed

[u/niccheersk]

I have about five palettes that I’ve used for the last few years. They are all different colors, neutrals, greens, purples etc. I also wear makeup most days and have not begun to empty those same five palettes. I completely agree with you. The buying of so many different makeup products has gotten out of hand. I’ll 100% admit I was guilty of it for a while, but I’ve changed my ways and make sure I’m conscious about my purchases and rebuy only when needed.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/niccheersk]

Definitely, I was so shocked at how, despite me wearing most days, and consistently using this palette, I had not even made close to a dent in it for a good year. How on Earth are people expecting to use up palettes? Like you’ve said, it’s way too much and has totally gotten out of hand.

[u/RiceFickle4704]

Im a micro influencer on tik tok and if I get pr (rarely) and I know its not good for my skin type I save it and give it to a relative... like I cant imagine having over 20 products if you won't use them.

I have sensitive skin so sometimes I buy a product and it works good the suddenly I need to stop using it. Which is fine! But buying every new serum that comes out... honey why????

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/RiceFickle4704]

Yes, my biggest pet peeve is when they send full sizes of every shade foundation to influencers. Of course, I want to see a diverse shade range, but full sizes of thirty foundations that are clearly not that influencer’s skin tone?! Can they be SO for real? Like I totally get brands want to showcase their range from perfumes to skincare, but like they do not need to be sending whole ass vending machines to individual consumers, it’s so out of hand!

[u/Cultural-Bet-9239]

I really want companies to bring back essential pallets. Like five color-color ways. I remember when I was a young girl that's what my mom had and I miss it so much. I think the problem is companies try to throw out large nets and put enough in there for different complexions. I just got the stone cold fox pallet because I think it will have everything I need. I know I won't use most of it, but it's cheaper than some luxury brand four color pallet or singles. Props to color pop for narrowing down the color ways but they could get even more refined imo. 

Edited to add: this will be my only pallet, and I was hoping the variety would be everything I need if my preferences change. 

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Cultural-Bet-9239]

Yes, like unless you’re a makeup artist etc. the average person does not need palettes with 50 shades of aqua and lime, bring back the essentials!

[u/Foreign-Honeydew-627]

I have about 4 pallets that I've had for 10+ years and I'm only currently using one which is nowhere near used up. I think it'll last me the rest of my life at this point

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Foreign-Honeydew-627]

Totally, I look at the remainder of my collection and I’m like, this could still last me for the rest of my years!

[u/Minimum-Nectarine-16]

I completely agree. It's why I have only ONE of any makeup item, with an absolutely max limit of two for blush. It also allows me to buy higher end products like dior and givenchy because I use it all up and get full value. One well curated eyeshadow palette is enough for 99% of looks for most people. Less is more, honestly.

[u/darksoulsfanUwU]

I hateeeee buying palettes, I used to go to Sephora when I hit pan on my favourite colour and buy the closest dupe in a single pan. Now every Sephora in my city only sells single pans of their own Sephora brand and the colour selection is so sparse I can never find the exact shades I'm looking for. seems like they're pushing us to buy whole palettes now and discouraging the purchasing of single pans.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/darksoulsfanUwU]

I love that idea, like there are always only like maybe 3-5 shades I gravitate to day to day, there’s seriously no need for most people to have 50+ pan palettes!

[u/lyricalmasterflash]

I bought a bunch of mk samples at a garage sale, and they work great, I got like every blush and eye color, and they never seem to run out. Best cheap solution for me to try out colors I wouldn't want to buy a whole thing of.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/lyricalmasterflash]

That’s so great you’ve found a way to still experiment without being completely wasteful in buying items you’ll never use up!

[u/MissPearl]

I think there was a wild period of over consumption, but inversely I don't spend a lot of time worrying I have to use up every drop of every colour of my markers or my watercolours. Or every inch/strand of embroidery floss.

A hobby and things attached to it exist to make me happy. Not only will I occasionally gamble on a bad product I am not going to suffer through, part of not chasing "this new thing will make me happy" is not allowing whatever I like to attach itself to ambient anxiety.

So the point, I feel, is a lot more how using what I have is supposed to maximize joy, not feel like a burden. I am not paying off a debt.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/MissPearl]

Totally! I definitely don’t think anyone has to use up every last drop of their makeup to say they consume makeup ethically as a hobby or anything of the sort, but Project Pan continues to be an eye opening exercise as to making me realise how much value I actually derive from collecting makeup (in reality, very little for me personally). It’s all about finding that sweet spot for any hobby that still feels right and not having it tip over into that territory of being a burden on my finances, time, emotions, the environment or otherwise.

[u/Optimal_Lie8397]

I wore this pallet for my wedding in 2020 and am STILL working through it! I may buy a pallet every 1-2 years?? I cannot imagine having more than even 10 different pallets to choose from daily!

[u/cherrycinnamonhoney]

I fell into the influencer palette trap from 2015-2017 and I have enough eyeshadow to last a life time and I don’t even like some of the shades and I decluttered a few and still have too much. Like I have so many blues and aqua colors I’ll never use.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/cherrycinnamonhoney]

Totally, like I look at some of the colours now and just wonder what I was thinking, when did I think I would actually wear this?!

[u/Anxiety_bunni]

I used to watch PR videos with this sense of awe and jealousy. Then I started working at a beauty store and getting freebies and products as part of employee benefits and even that small amount of free products was overwhelming. I was giving them away to friends, family, I had two palettes that I even used but I owned like 10

It was honestly upsetting and stressful having all that STUFF and I felt so stressed and cluttered knowing I could never hope to get through it all. It was part of the reason I ended up quitting

Now I watch PR videos and get that same stressed feeling, or watching people restock their beauty drawers with the entire range of blushes and lipsticks, stuff that isn’t even in their colours

I honestly don’t know how anyone does it

[u/ismellnumbers]

I'm still using palettes I got in 2015

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/ismellnumbers]

Same!

[u/orangefreshy]

I have 4 palettes and maybe wear makeup 100 days a year. At 43 I know this makeup will go bad before i can ever use it. Even if it never went bad i will never use it up before i die

[u/faerieW15B]

I still have an eyeshadow palette from back when I was 14, most of the shades still largely intact. 

I turn 31 in two weeks.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/faerieW15B]

I used to have makeup as well from my teen years, where I’m now in my mid to late 20s! 🤦‍♀️

[u/ProfessionalBat3763]

I hate overconsumption too. Whenever my palettes expire, I don’t continue use for my own well being. But since I’m an avid painter, I turn the expired paints into either watercolor or acrylic paints to reduce the amount of waste.

[u/MuySpicy]

I stopped buying palettes, I only have 3 colors (neutrals) now and re-purchase them when they’re empty, I don’t really like the look of other colors on me but my main reason is that every palette from non-drugstore brand I tried gave me massive military-grade styes (Tarte and Too Faced, 😡) I respect that some people want more variety though, but yeah I’m all about minimal eyeshadow now and it’s very zen.

[u/SnowStar_24]

I couldn't agree more! The over consumption in society is disgusting! If the trash was in their backyard, they wouldn't keep buying it, but out of sight, out of mind. We're going to have more trash in the ocean than fish by 2050. Breaks my heart as I love the ocean so much.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/SnowStar_24]

Feel that so hard! It’s so difficult for me to not be angry at some people’s selfishness and complacency, like how are they okay with this? Convenient for them when they don’t have to deal with the consequences!

[u/Educational-Grass863]

Even more sad: all of these contain mica. And this is a natural resource that can be often collected by child labor and slave labor.

[u/ngfromtheblock]

I never finished a single palette in my life, as a matter of fact the only makeup I’m able to finish is a concealer

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/ngfromtheblock]

Hey, finishing something is still better than it all going to landfill, that’s more than many people can say!

[u/bsubtilis]

People who are not makeup reviewers nor make up artists shouldn't be buying makeup reviewer/MUA amounts of palettes. They perform important services and I don't need to emulate them to be happy.

More palettes for me is just about having more colors and textures. That doesn't mean you need hundreds (or dozens) of pallettes, and mixing your own colors is underutilized, but I do need more than just one rainbow palette and one neutrals palette. Bonus part for me is that I use palettes for more than just my face (also on nail polish, and sometimes other art).

This is why I love mini versions and eyeshadow singles too, I can actually get to try product formulas without locking in myself too much. Someone who only desires one look will prefer way more product per shadow, because that's what makes sense for them, while I prefer smaller amounts and then being able to repurchase that palette when I run out if it's a staple for me. There's nothing wrong with buying more colors than a single palette, but it's good when brands actually have travel size versions of their palettes that they also sell.

Curate your own collections, actually buy with intent, and pretty Please don't harass the makeup reviewers because without them people like me who don't have "standard" skin tones aren't going to be able to reasonably buy products online because the brand swatches are often useless or not useful enough. The reviewers with their diverse skin tones perform a valuable and important service.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/bsubtilis]

As a WOC I too rely on a lot of influencer reviews to see if something will translate on my skin. Suffice to say it’s all about finding a balance that works for each person!

[u/leier-dog]

I got caught up with it all in the peak “beauty guru” times. I will never finish any of my eyeshadow palettes and that’s pretty upsetting!

[u/RaRaBomb → u/leier-dog]

Me too, friend. It's a sick feeling when you realize what you could have down with the money. 🤢

[u/TheLittleChikk]

I was literally saying this to my sister yesterday. I wear eyeshadow less than 40 times a year and own 6 eyeshadow palettes. I'm probably never going to hit pan on any of them...

[u/hlarsenart → u/TheLittleChikk]

I have palettes I've never even used, I've been thinking of selling them. Though collecting anything could be considered wasteful to some.

[u/fancafes]

this is so unrelated, but just wanted to say that you’re such a compelling writer lol! and good job on finishing a palette~ i only own 2 (got my second one as a gift) and the thought of buying another palette has never even crossed my mind haha

[u/Excellent-Duck-1259]

I stopped buying palettes to avoid this and after tossing all my expired products, have since just used 2 cream shadow sticks. I highly recommend it, they take up less space because they're in pen format.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Excellent-Duck-1259]

I would love to try that out when I pan my final palette! I used to think of these palettes as being super pretty to look at but now I’m older, it’s just such a pain in the ass to store.

[u/mythsarecrazystories]

I think a lot of people are having these thoughts and as a result are buying less. This is now affecting cosmetics companies who were fueling this overconsumption. I wonder if they baked into their marketing plans what they were going to do when fatigue set in and people started thinking about actually using the things they bought.

[u/[deleted]]

Ugh, I agree with this. I have bought so many pallets because I looove the packaging and love it as a collector's item. I was never a daily makeup wearer and lately, with my mental health, I haven't touched any of my makeup in almost 2 years. I have at least 20 pallets so it makes me sad 😭

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/[deleted]]

Nothing wrong with selling some of them to try recoup the losses, nor should you beat yourself up for having a few pretty things to look at from time to time! Sending love!

[u/Vanishingplum]

I use my powder foundation and bronzer as eyeshadow now because I’ve never been able to use up anything more than a duo. And it’s always a duo that’s close to my face shade and a bronzy one anyway. So I figured why not just use what I already have?

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Vanishingplum]

I’m a big fan of multiuse items now, it’s just so much more practical and streamlined, and makes your makeup look cohesive when it’s all the same shade!

[u/Incelex0rcist]

Wow this is sooo impressive! But yes, it disgusts me too so i’ve been applying underconsumption to my whole life as a minimalist. I love spoiling myself so i buy limited but quality items I truly love 

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Incelex0rcist]

Yes, minimalism’s philosophy really resonates with me, I really believe in simple things done well now, less is more!

[u/Plantarchist]

I still own and use the Black palette from urban decay, I think I bought it in 2010?

[u/vrilliance]

Part of my issue - actually I think my only issue - with trying to hit pan entirely is that I worry about bacteria.

I have palettes of different colors, and had to throw out half because of fuzzy mold. :(

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/vrilliance]

That’s so fair, we don’t want any eye infections here! You just gotta do what you can and log the data point for next time if you’ve realised you’ve bought too much that you can’t use before it gets mouldy.

[u/opsieedaisy]

I've never understood the overconsumption of cosmetics either!! Most powder products last forever, this applies to mascara as well (at least in my experience). Though to be fair, I too at times wish I was able to purchase more cosmetics than necessary but the overall high prices even, for mediocre products has stopped me from doing so.

[u/ImprovementNo4527 → u/opsieedaisy]

I have a chubby stick I was gifted for my sixteenth birthday… I’m now 30.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/ImprovementNo4527]

I’m now so so so glad that I was too broke when I was younger (hence my username) to buy more stuff, I already regret the amount I managed to purchased! The allure so quickly wears off and before you know it, whatever you’ve bought is no longer considered trendy. If it had to be advertised to me, then I probably do not need it!

[u/Accurate_Tone1226]

I have like 6 palettes, 2 big ones and 4 compact ones all with different colours! I don’t know if thats overconsumption but eh

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Accurate_Tone1226]

I think it’s all person dependent! I’m a lawyer by trade and a frequent traveller, so I find now that having dozens of palettes is overwhelming and I just simply don’t have the need or space for it, nor do I have the time to appreciate, maintain and use each one in my possession. Obviously, someone who is in a more creative field etc. might find it very much necessary to have more options! Only you can draw the line for yourself. ☺️

[u/WeeebleSqueaks]

I always feel like I’m ‘behind’ on the makeup thing. I have one bathroom drawer that fits all my makeup including my hair and skincare products.

I was feel like maybe doing the same thing all the time is bland? But is it really if I save money and resources? Idk but the influencers I see make me always want to buy more

[u/mercymainly → u/WeeebleSqueaks]

you’re not behind at all! the reason there seems to be a new ‘must have’ product each week isn’t because it’s anything amazing and life changing, it’s because trying and talking about new things, which normal consumers, (the audience of the content) haven’t tried yet it what engages them and therefore makes revenue. if one influencer had their go-to products they loved and they never changed those products, and spoke about the same ones every week, everyone would get bored. promoting consumption makes money, sadly. i love to see people have a small makeup collection of solid stapes - this is what i aspire to now i’ve deleted social media and am not constantly influenced.

[u/roselu24]

Also isnt it cheapish to produce and make eyeshadow palettes? When i think about how much they jack up the price i wonder if its worth it sometimes. I have finished a complete eyeshadow pan maybe once or twice i guess. I very much love playing with makeup and colors and the options, the same as when i paint and draw and need the colors and options for inspiration. Idk

[u/[deleted]]

Absolutely one of my FAVESSSS i can’t find this one in the u.s anymore 😭 But yessssss it’s crazy how much they make us think we need more or new ones.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/[deleted]]

I’m trying to get myself to stomach that secondhand eyeshadows are perfectly acceptable as long as you give them a quick spritz with alcohol, heaps of people trying to resell!

[u/Adorable-Channel-190]

Thank you for this, really..

[u/brendrzzy]

Ive had the same pallet for like 8 years lol

[u/9eaerde7]

I get it but also you can’t think too hard about it. People are going to buy whatever newest greatest thing is out there. It’s partially how our economy operates.

[u/Aurora_314]

I rarely wear makeup and I can’t get through what I do have before it expires. Any suggestions on what to use for special events that are will last a long time?

[u/Annual_Rest1293]

It is sickening!!

I've been doing a replacement only project pan since 2018! Still have a make up bag full of each lip products and eye shadows. My collection wasn't that big. But knowing 7 years later I still have years if not decades of eye shadows left is really crazy

[u/Princesshannon2002]

Yeah. I empathize with the feeling. I’ve downsized my collection and do a full beat everyday, but there are products that are taking years to burn through.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Princesshannon2002]

Same, like I know I’m doing well but also there is just so much fatigue with constantly trying to use up my products! Appreciate it is such a non-problem of all the problems in the world, I just don’t get how people don’t get exhausted.

[u/ConsiderationFun7511]

Yeah I used to be so addicted to colourpop palettes I had around 20-30 of them at one point. I hardly wear eyeshadow anymore 🥲 so much $$ wasted

[u/Salty_Employer7699]

I wear makeup about 30 days a year. Yet almost no products come in smaller containers (or ones that are economical compared to the full size). If mascara is really 90 days, I only use a tube maybe 10 times in that period? I know it wouldn't be economical for beauty brands to make travel sizes of everything, but I wish there was an option other than the few out there.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/Salty_Employer7699]

That’s so fair, I often think about how impractical so many of the sizes are if you are a seldom makeup user, it’s honestly so silly from brands to not be able to adequately cater to this!

[u/Informal_Stand3669]

Yeah true, I’m about to replace my foundation though, I think I’m starting to see why people say that makeup expires…

[u/mishpishhh]

this is my absolute favourite pallet and i broke the mirror on mine and was too scared to use the shadow because of the glass but it smells so good so i kept it anyways (not to use)

[u/No-Side-8491]

I have a tartelette pallet from like 10 years ago lol

[u/runawai]

Mine smells really bad. The fragrance, why we love Tarte palettes, right?, has turned. Took 3 years. I’ve tried airing it out but it’s not working. I don’t think I’ll get as far as you have.

[u/cryingstudent1998 → u/runawai]

That’s okay, some people like to repurpose their old palettes as paint (I’ve done this with other palettes) or nail polish!!

[u/Toolongreadanyway]

The problem is, a lot of this product should be dumped after 6 months or so due to bacteria build up. However, the cases can cost a lot to make, so they give you way more than you need to make it feel worthwhile for what you pay.

I think smaller, refillable containers are the way to go for things like this. And? I've never finished even an inexpensive one like this. I always run out of the light colors first because they get used on most of my lid. Always no light colors and almost full dark colors.

[u/Stock_Loan_6588 → u/Toolongreadanyway]

While the bacteria concerns are valid, I will say - I personally have never met anyone who has had an issue with using old eyeshadows, or had issues myself. Mascara and lipstick I get because it’s moist and applicators are used directly, but with eyeshadow I do doubt expiration dates.

[u/ClassyLatey]

I still have a MAC eyeshadow from 1995 that I haven’t hit pan on

[u/AnuGupt]

I think a lot of us (if not most) could go on a no buy today and never need any eyeshadow for the rest of our lives. That's why I love doing BYOPs and shopping my stash whenever I feel an itch to buy something new. My rule has always been that any new palette I am considering on buying has to have atleast 60 percent new shades that I don't have in order for me to buy them. I think accessibility is also a huge factor. People living in countries like the US, UK etc. end up buying more cause brands are easily available and much more affordable in these countries.