Our Top 10 Makeup Hygiene Tips
Many women can’t imagine life without makeup. It’s become a part of so many women’s daily routine that it’s almost second nature to swipe on some shadow or gloss before leaving the house each day. Using the same products day after day introduces some hygiene risks, however. If not stored and used properly, makeup can grow germs, cause breakouts, and even spread infections. Be sure to follow these 10 tips for practicing good makeup hygiene.
Start with a fresh face.
Wash your face each morning before applying makeup to avoid trapping any dirt or bacteria in your pores. Once your face is nice and clean, you can begin your normal makeup application.
Sharing isn’t always caring.
If possible, avoid sharing makeup with friends, especially lipstick or any kind of eye makeup. Pinkeye and cold sores can be easily transmitted through these beauty products.
Wipe it down!
If you must try on beauty products at a department store, ask for a disposable applicator or wipe off products like powders and lipsticks with a tissue. There have been cases of women picking up staph, strep, and even E. coli from department store makeup.
Close up after your close-up.
After applying makeup, make sure to tightly close any containers and bottles you’ve used. Never leave products open, as that can allow bacteria to get in.
Stay cool and dry.
Storing your makeup at an appropriate temperature is necessary to keeping it bacteria-free. Room temperature is best, as bacteria tend to grow in warmer temperatures. Moisture may also lead to the growth of bacteria, so store makeup in a dry area.
Disinfect regularly.
Use isopropyl alcohol to clean tools like tweezers or lash curlers. Don’t forget to clean your brushes and applicators, as well. A little soapy water is usually enough to do the trick.
Wash your hands.
Before dipping your fingers into a tub of lip balm or moisturizer, make sure your hands are clean. Fingertips often carry germs and bacteria.
Stay sharp.
Sharpen pencils and liners before every use to get rid of bacteria that may be sitting on the surface.
Remove makeup before bed.
Before turning in for the night, be sure to wash your face and remove all makeup products. Leaving it on can lead to breakouts and trapped pores.
Out with the old, in with the new.
Three months is usually a good timeframe to hold onto makeup. Powders last longer than liquids, and mascara is the most important product to replace regularly. Furthermore, if you’ve had an eye infection recently, we recommend you dispose of your eye makeup as it may still be carrying the bacteria.
