Finally you found that long discontinued color that you have been looking for! Time to buy it!

Well maybe not. Here are few tips to help you with your cosmetics purchases and keep from getting burned.

1. How long has the item been discontinued - and what is the product. A lipstick last produced in 1999 may not be something you want to put on your lips, but an eyeshadow made in 2005 is probably still fine. Remember that face cream lasts up to two years, mascara about 6 months, powder items will depend on what they are made of (Bare Minerals last about 3 years, Everyday Minerals never expire - so check with the manufacturer), and lipsticks and glosses will vary between 6 months to 2 years. Some Mineral lines never expire as long as they do not get wet.

2. Brand Name - a MAC long discontinued pigment may not be authentic if it the one everyone is searching for but only one seller has, but you never know - they may have come across a lucky find. Just be sure to check their pictures and read the guides on how to determine the authenticity of items here on Ebay. Bobbi Brown shimmer bricks are also a hot item and other brands limited edition items are ones to watch.

3. Pricing - be sure to check your local stores too. Sometimes Ebay sellers will sell items above retail just because and you can go and buy it at your local mall for less. And sometimes the deal is way too good to be true, and usually that means it is.

4. Seller - look at feedback and comments. Sometimes the seller has a high rating but not so wonderful comments in their feedback or sometimes a low rating is the result of one disgruntled buyer.

5. Bidding - So you found it - it looks good, not expired and you bid. Remember to put in the max you want to pay and let Ebay bid for you. If $20 is the max remember if you lose you can't be too mad because you did not want to pay more that $20 for the item. If you win it at $16 even better. Also if it is a limited edition item be aware that bidding can go high. I have seen a complete set of MAC Skinfinish, all new in boxes - 16 pieces go for over $900 when the original cost was somewhere around $400.

Hope this helps you all out in your quest for your favorite cosmetics. Remember to vote if you find this guide helpful.