Unlike other mascaras, the cake stuff just sits there waiting to be used. It's already dry so it won't dry out and become useless.  I think mine had been sitting there for at least 3 years and I applied it yesterday and it was just like when it was new. <snip I remember your early raves for the PD, Cofarb, and quickly picked up a new one in a swap after you mentioned how much you like it.  I liked that it had a creamier consistency than some of the add-water-to-a-dry-pan cake mascaras, but I could never get it right with the fan brush, so it has sat lo these last couple of years.  I'm glad you brought it up; I'll dig it out again.  Thanks to Diane and AJM for the spoolie brush and Transformer suggestions...I have a WTF? shadow-to-liner liquid converter I'll try.  I've also been trying to remember to curl my lashes, too...that seems to make a difference no matter what mascara I use!......Laurie B.