Whether you have a meticulous three-step skincare routine or struggle to even wash your face, we have some bad news for you about those makeup brushes. Yep, you guessed it - turns out they need a good scrub too. Your makeup kit could be a breeding ground for bacteria and while this may not be the info you want to hear, a dirty makeup brush, a loaded with grime lash curler, and all those mascara wands could all contribute to your next breakout.
So, is it time to throw out your whole makeup bag thanks to years of caked-on powder products or is there a way to save the day? Take a look at this guide on how to sanitize makeup brushes and why cleaning makeup brushes should definitely be on your to-do list.
The Most Commonly Found Bacteria in Makeup Products
Ok, take a deep breath as we plunge into the science behind the most common forms of bacteria that could be hanging out in your synthetic brushes and makeup sponge. Don't worry afterwards we will guide you through the best ways to embrace makeup sanitation and how to bring that trusty make up tool back to life.
For all those who have been skipping out and choosing not to clean your brushes, this study from the Society for Applied Microbiology may be what you need to change your mind. Doing a deep dive into a makeup bag and checking everything from liquid foundation to eyeshadow, lip gloss, pressed powder and eyeliner pencil showed significant levels of contamination in products that had been used. The following paragraph of findings helps to illuminate exactly what was found stashed inside.
Here's a general roundup of the possible hidden bacteria that could be lurking beneath your bristles...
- Remains of mites
- Staphylococcus
- Streptococcus
- E-Coli
- Fungi
While it all sounds pretty horrifying, these mites, bacteria, and germs aren't necessarily going to cause your health any harm but they can stress out the skin and lead to irritation and breakouts. Plus, it's also best to try and adopt lifestyle habits that keep you healthy and clean. Let's dive beneath the surface and sort out exactly how to clean each item commonly found in your makeup case.
What You Need to Sanitize Your Makeup
How to Sanitize...
Lipstick
Lipsticks won't do well with hot water so it's not like you can pop your cherry red into the washing machine. Instead, grab a spray bottle of isopropyl alcohol and give your solid makeup pieces a spritz. You want rubbing alcohol that is as pure as can be (AKA no added fragrance or ingredients) as this reduces the chance of irritating what may already be in the product.
Pencils and Sharpeners
There's an easy way to remove the grimy top layer of your pencil and that's by simply using a sharpener to take it down to a lower and cleaner layer. But don't stop there - another quick spritz of alcohol or a gentle rub with a sanitizing wipe will bring your eyebrow pencil back from the brink.
SHOP SOZY
