Makeup is our magical tool to transform, express, and enhance our natural beauty, but oh my goodness, the last thing we want is to introduce germs into our glam routine! Knowing how to sanitise makeup should be a priority for every makeup lover, not just for those of us with sensitive skin! Whether you’re a makeup novice or a seasoned pro, we all need to understand how to keep our products safe and clean.
Importance of Sanitizing Makeup
Keeping your makeup bag clean is just as essential as knowing how to apply that perfect winged eyeliner. Dirty makeup can lead to breakouts, infections, and all sorts of beauty disasters that we’d rather avoid! When it comes to figuring out how to sanitise makeup, the process goes far beyond just having clean brushes. It includes everything from lipsticks to powders. So, let’s dive into why this is so essential for your beauty routine.
Understanding Bacteria in Makeup
The makeup we adore can become a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, and other nasties over time. We’re not saying you should become a total germaphobe, but let’s be real – when was the last time you checked that eye shadow palette for unwanted visitors? Regularly using a product that’s contaminated can lead to some pretty serious skin issues like acne, irritation, and even infections.
Here’s a chic little fact: Cream products like foundations and lipsticks are more susceptible to bacteria than powders since they contain moisture which is like a five-star hotel invitation for bacteria! So, buckle up, darling, because we’re about to get into how to best sanitise your makeup.
Ways to Sanitize Makeup Products
Cleaning Solid Makeup Products
When dealing with solid products such as powder foundations, blush, and eyeshadows, proper sanitization is just a few steps away. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)
- Paper towels or cotton pads
- Clean, dry brush or applicator
- Good vibes (totally mandatory).
Step-by-Step Guide for Solid Products
- Pour a Small Amount of Alcohol: In a small bowl, pour a little isopropyl alcohol. You don’t need to drown the product, just enough to get the job done.
- Dab the Cotton Pad: Take a cotton pad and dip it lightly into the alcohol—don’t go crazy, babe!
- Gently Wipe the Surface: Use the cotton pad to gently wipe the surface of your powder or pressed products. Make sure to get every nook and cranny.
- Let it Air Dry: This is the best part! Allow your makeup to air dry for at least 10-15 minutes. You want to ensure that the alcohol has evaporated completely before using it again.
- Store Properly: Once dry, keep your products sealed and stored in a cool, dry place to prevent further contamination.
Cleaning Cream and Liquid Products
Now, let’s talk about those beautiful liquid foundations, concealers, and creamy blushes that keep us looking flawless. Here’s how to sanitise those little jars of joy:
Supplies You Need
- Isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)
- Disposable spatula or a clean small scoop
- Clean empty container.
Step-by-Step Guide for Cream Products
- Transfer the Product: Using a clean spatula, scoop a small amount of product from the main container into the clean empty container.
- Mix with Alcohol: Add a few drops of isopropyl alcohol to the product in the container. This helps to kill any bacteria lurking in there.
- Blend it Well: Use the spatula to mix the alcohol thoroughly with the cream until it’s evenly blended.
- Let it Settle: Allow it to sit for a few minutes to ensure the alcohol does its magic.
- Return to Main Container: If you wish, you can place this mixture back into the main container, but only if it’s clean and dry.
Sanitizing Applicators and Brushes
You go to all this trouble to keep your makeup clean, but what about the brushes and sponges? They can be some of the sneakiest culprits when it comes to transferring bacteria. Here’s how to keep these essential tools squeaky clean:
Essential Tools
- Mild brush cleanser or baby shampoo
- Warm water
- Small bowl
- Clean towel or paper towels.
Step-by-Step Guide to Clean Brushes/Applicators
- Rinse with Warm Water: Start by rinsing the bristles or sponge under warm water, but avoid soaking the handle. You don’t want water to get into the ferrule which may loosen the glue.
- Apply Cleanser: Pour a small amount of your brush cleanser or shampoo into your palm or a small bowl.
- Swirl and Lather: Gently swirl the brush or sponge in the cleanser, and work it into the bristles with your fingers.
- Rinse Again: Rinse the brush under warm water until the water runs clear, making sure to remove all soap.
- Dry Flat: Lay the brushes flat on a clean towel to dry. This helps maintain the shape and keeps them in tip-top condition.
Best Practices for Storing Makeup
Now that you’ve got the sanitising process down to a science, let’s chat about how to sanitise makeup while preventing future contamination. Here’s a checklist to maintain a germ-free makeup stash:
- Keep it Dry: Store your products in a cool, dry place and use airtight containers whenever possible.
- Wipe Down Dipping Containers: Cream products in pots can easily collect bacteria if fingers are dipped directly into them. Always use a clean spatula!
- Regular Declutter: Check your stash regularly and toss out products that are beyond their expiration dates or those that smell funky.
- Avoid Sharing: If you can, keeping your magical goodies to yourself will help prevent bacteria spread.
Organizing Makeup for Better Hygiene
When you’re mulling over how to sanitise makeup, let’s not overlook the importance of how you store them. Keeping your makeup organized can really help in maintaining cleanliness.
Makeup Storage Solutions
- Use Clear Bins: Clear storage bins can help you easily see what’s inside without opening every container, reducing the need to touch things.
- Drawer Dividers: Invest in some cute drawer dividers to keep your products separated. This reduces the chances of cross-contamination.
- Frequency of Use: Place the products you use most frequently at the top or front of your storage solution so you’re not rummaging through everything.
The Golden Rule of Makeup Life
Remember the golden rule of makeup storage: Always sanitize before and after use. It’s as simple as that! Keeping everything clean and tidy will prolong the life of your products and keep you flawless.
Conclusion on How to Sanitise Makeup
So there you have it, glam queens – the ultimate guide on how to sanitise makeup! From cleaning your favorite lipsticks to keeping your brushes fresh, maintaining a sanitary beauty routine is absolutely essential for healthy skin. Incorporate these fabulous tips into your routine and shine bright like the diamond you are!
And listen, the next time someone asks you about those fabulous colors on your face, you can confidently tell them it’s all about good hygiene and great makeup products. Happy sanitizing, beauties!
For more insights on skincare, check out American Academy of Dermatology or for product details, visit Sephora. ❤️✨