If you find out your favorite lipstick is being discontinued or if you see it at a rock-bottom price, you may be tempted to buy a supply to store for later. This is a great way to get the color you want at a good price. Opened, used lipstick is usually fine for two years, when stored at room temperature. If you want your stash to last longer than that, you'll need to take a few precautions.

Leave the lipstick in the original package, if it is sealed and airtight. If the package has been damaged or is not airtight, remove the toss-away clear lid, lower the lipstick all the way into the tube and place the regular cap on it. Don't touch the lipstick, as this introduces germs and bacteria and reduces the life of the lipstick.

Place the lipstick in a small, dark box with a lid. Light can fade the color of the lipstick.

Keep the box of lipsticks in a temperature-controlled environment so the lipstick won't be heated and cooled over and over. A dresser drawer or closet is a good option, but you can also store the lipstick in the refrigerator if you prefer. If you home fluctuates in temperature, the refrigerator might be the best option. Avoid storing lipstick in the bathroom.