New Year, New Makeup: Time to stock up

Every once in a while it's a good idea to chuck all that old makeup (especially mascara!) because it gets gross after a while. Colors aren't as vibrant and did you know that you're supposed to replace your mascara every three months? When you think about the germs and bacteria that can accumulate in our makeup bag, it's always refreshing to have a clean slate and start over. Since it's a new year, I figured it was time for a makeup makeover. There are tons of great deals out there that makes it easy to replenish your stash for a good price. Here's a brief look at my scores this week:

Clinique: I needed powder--badly. I think I had been harboring my current compact for almost two years. While Clinique products obviously last forever, it was time to get a fresh one. Clinique is currently have a promotion for free shipping on any order over $50 and a free Valentine's Day pink roped handle tote is automatically included in your shopping cart (while supplies last) when you spend $30. Ideas to get your cart past $50: Dramatically Different Moisturizing Lotion in a tube for $17 and my favorite eyeliner of all time Cream shaper in Eqyptian.

E.L.F.: I was skeptical at first about this cheap brand. With most products falling in between the $1 to $3 price range, there's really no reason to not try one of everything out. I became a fan when I picked up some silver eyeshadow from a Target clearance rack, and I realized that their products were not so "cheap" even though they were low cost. Free Sample Freak always posts coupon codes for E.L.F. and last week there was a free shipping code (sorry ladies, it expired !). I was able to get 13 products for $21. While I can't say how high quality they will be, the price is so low that it's worth a shot. Among the things that E.L.F. has includes eyeshadows, bronzers, eyeliners, lip gloss and even beauty tools like tweezers.

• Edit: E.L.F. is offering a free 10 free $1 products with any $20 purchase. Enter code '2010' at checkout! Let me know what it is!

CVS: Perhaps the best score of the week is at CVS. For about two weeks now, they have marked down many cosmetics to 50% and even 75% off (on top of their normal cosmetics sales!). I managed to get 4 Rimmel lip glosses, 11 eyeshadows of various brands and more bronzer for about $20. Check your local CVS and look for the mark downs, and Cover Girl and Revlon cosmetics are on sale this week too. See all the sale ads at I Heart CVS.

Here's to a new year with a "new face." :) Happy makeup hunting!

• Edit: I forgot the best part! Both Clinique and E.L.F. are part of Ebates' cash back program. I managed to get about $3.50 back after both purchases. Make sure to join! ;)