Lash Makeup Artistry by Jessica: June 2010

Makeup Hygiene is so important and sometimes it's the last thing we all seem to think about, as we all think nothing will ever happen to us. Well unfortunately things do happen from time to time but can be avoided if you are hygienic.

Makeup Tip #101: "Sharing Makeup"

I know we are all guilty of sharing our makeup from time to time with our friends and family. It is considered a big "No No" if done unsanitarily. If you do share makeup with others ALWAYS use disposable or clean brushes/sponges/wands and never double dip into the product. By doing this you will avoid sharing any bacteria or germs which can grow in the product or more importantly on your face.

Products commonly shared: Mascara, eyeshadows, lipsticks/lip glosses, powder, bronzer

Hygiene of Sharing Makeup is especially important when "Sampling Makeup at beauty counters"

It is a scary world out there and I see so many people sampling mascara and lipsticks etc at makeup counters without wiping the product first. I think to myself what are they thinking???

Who knows where that product has been? Has it fallen on the floor? Has an unsanitary person used it? Has someone with a cold sore used it? Has someone touched it with their unclean hands?

Yes all these wonderful things go through my head - Almost bordering OCD, but I'd rather be safe then sorry.

I know sometimes ignorance is bliss but are you really willing to risk your face??

Many Makeup Artists are guilty of blowing on brushes to remove excess fallout. This is another big "No No!". You should always tap out any excess and never blow.

When you blow on your brushes they leave tiny particles of saliva. Your brushes are then dipped into your makeup product, which now contains saliva particles. (pretty gross huh?)

Then if the saliva was contaminated it means that your brushes and makeup products are also contaminated. Which can possibly mean anyone who uses the contaminated producted can be infected (with cold sores etc). So the moral of the story is "Don't blow on your brushes or let anyone else apply a blown brush to your face!"

Below are Tips for everyday makeup users to help "Save Your Face!"

1. Sanitising Pencils (Eyeliner, Lipliner, Kohls etc):

Prior to using, (if possible of course) always clean the blade and inner chamber with Alcohol (>97%, 99% is preferable). Dip pencil in, or spray with, alcohol, and then sharpen. Before applying pencil, dip in or spray with Alcohol to prevent cross contamination from residue in the sharpener. Allow to dry before using on skin.

2. Sanitising Pressed Powders (Includes Eyeshadow, Blush, etc.):

Wipe surface thoroughly with a clean tissue prior to touching with brush or any other applicator. Repeat prior to touching the product as necessary. (Spraying with alcohol doesn't hurt in terms of sanitary precautions, but can ruin the product over time). Germs generally don't grow on pressed powder but you can still transfer dead skin cells to the powder when u apply it, so just to be certain the alcohol spray can be good.

3. Working Hygienically With Loose Powders (Include Pigments, etc.):

Dispense onto mixing palette or other clean surface using spatula or other sanitary tool.

4. Working Hygienically With Mascaras & Liquid Liners:

Use a clean disposable applicator (aka "Spoolies" for mascara, etc.) and do not double dip. Dip once only and use a new applicator each time if more product is required. Double dipping cross-contaminates and defeats the purpose.

5. Working Hygienically With Lipgloss:

Use a disposable applicator following the same protocol as above. If one is not available, dispense onto mixing palette or other hygienic surface. Never apply directly with included applicator.

6. Working Hygienically With Liquid Cosmetics:

Dispense on to mixing palette and then apply with brush or sponge. Make sure the mouth of the bottle doesn't touch the surface of your tools - no pressing the sponge or brush up against it, especially after it has already been used. This applies to foundations, moisturisers, or anything else that comes out of a bottle.