I think it's happened to us all. You head to the store to stock up on your favorite lipstick that you've worn for years, only to be informed by the clerk that it's been discontinued. Panic strikes, then anger. You wonder how and why this could happen.

Don't take it personally. Cosmetics companies frequently switch up inventories to make way for new technology and trends. Often, it's the lower-selling items that suffer the most. But don't fret, because there are tips and tricks to track down shades that have fallen victim to discontinuation. Get the details when you read more.

  • Customize: They don't call themselves Three Custom Color Specialists for nothing. The company will custom blend to re-create your favorite shades. Prescriptives offers a similar service, too.
  • Power of the people: If you're upset about an item being discontinued, let the company know about it. Who knows? They might just reconsider if they hear from enough diehard fans.
  • Check the websites: Many brands have special sections of their websites devoted entirely to products that are being or have been discontinued, like Estée Lauder's Gone But Not Forgotten program or Urban Decay's R.I.P. Items section.
  • Hit the discount stores and overstock sites: Hello, TJ Maxx for perfume, and Cosmetics and More and BuyMeBeauty.com for low-cost finds. Don't forget about Overstock.com for discontinued goods as well.
  • Auction: There's no place like eBay when it comes to long lost cosmetics. Just don't get suckered by counterfeit makeup.
  • Change with the times: Change is a constant. Take it as an opportunity to try out a new shade. Better yet, many companies offer up suggestions for replacements, like CoverGirl's In With the New page.
  • Swaparoo: If exchanging makeup with strangers feels OK, the "swap" feature from Makeup Alley might just score you the goods.

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