Are your makeup brushes tossed at the bottom of your makeup drawer along with a collection of half used blushes and bronzers? If you’re anything like me, your makeup can get a bit cluttered and messy. Makeup products harbour organisms that can multiply and cause infections, if they never get washed. Poorly cared for makeup brushes can be a breeding ground for bacteria and dirt, which can easily transfer to your skin (causing blackheads and breakouts!). Here are few tips for keeping your makeup clean and germ-free:
DO NOT SHARE MAKEUP
Sleeping over at a friend’s and using her makeup when heading out is not a good decision. While you may be two peas in a pod, your makeup is not share-friendly. Heard of the most recent case of a mother who used her friend’s makeup brush and ended up on a wheelchair? It’s true; a woman in Australia became infected with life-threatening methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) that left her in a wheelchair after she used a friend’s make-up brush to cover a blemish.
PROPER STORAGE
Due to its powdery and waxy composition, makeup is a natural attractant for bacteria, dust, allergens and other airborne particles. To avoid transferring unwanted germs and bacteria to your skin, eyes or lips during application, it’s imperative to keep cosmetics sealed and covered at all times. Close and seal containers, compacts and cases after each usage. For an added level of protection, store your individual makeup items in a dry, warm, sealable makeup bag or organizer.
NEVER EVER SHARE EYE PRODUCTS
Did you know vision infections like pink eye can be passed from person to person? There are eye infections that are highly-contagious and if you’re sharing mascara with someone, you can pass or acquire an eye infection. Don’t share mascara or other eye products to prevent contagious and inflammatory eye infections. Be sure to discard mascara if you experience eye irritation or an eye infection.
WASH HANDS BEFORE APPLYING MAKEUP
The simplest thing you can do to keep germs out of your cosmetics is to start your routine by washing your hands. If you apply makeup in the bedroom or on the go, you may not have easy access to soap and water, so keep instant hand sanitizer like in your makeup bag.
CLEAN EYELASH CURLERS
Your eyelash curler keeps clumping’ with more and more mascara which helps the bacteria grow and find a safe haven. Un-cleaned, the device can harbour organisms that may get into your eyes and cause irritation and infection. Disinfect it after use and keep it clean, after all, if you won’t eat from a used kitchen utensil, why would you use an eyelash curler with old mascara clumped on it.
AVOID USING DULL EYE/LIP PENCILS
Sharpen makeup pencils once a week and try to use a disinfectant wipe between each use. Shaving the top layer off will remove infection-causing bacteria- plus, it’s much easier to apply. Just don’t forget to clean out the sharpener with a little soap and water, followed by disinfectant.
STORE COSMETICS AT APPROPRIATE CONDITIONS
Since humidity promotes microbial growth and makes the preservatives in cosmetics less effective, makeup should be kept away from heat; never in the shower or glove compartment. Designate some space within a cool, dark cupboard or linen closet for all of your products.
GO PLASTIC
Using cloth and leather makeup bags that look great, but are tricky to clean. Stick with makeup bags made of plastic and nylon. Once or twice a month empty them out and clean the lining with disinfectant wipes. Bonus: Plastic makeup bags are inexpensive so you can afford a new one every year.