How to hygienically share makeup?

Author: Jeramy Greenfelder PhD  |  Last update: Wednesday, August 6, 2025

The right way to share Levy recommends spraying a coat of 70 percent isopropyl alcohol over the product, and then gently wiping off the first layer to sanitize it. (We also love BeautySoClean makeup sanitizers.)

Is there a way to sanitize used makeup?

Sanitizing product: The best way to make sure bacteria is cleaned off of your makeup products is to spray 70% isopropyl alcohol from a few inches away and then keep the container open until it drys fully.

Is it hygienic to share makeup?

Using another person's makeup products or sharing makeup that you own could spread acne-causing germs. Essentially, your face is coming into contact with someone else's pimples and germs. There's no way this can be good for our skin.

How do makeup artists sanitize between clients?

A responsible cosmetologist sanitizes all equipment often and frequently. Usually it's done with spraying alcohol but soap and water or barbicide is common too.

What is the most hygienic way to apply makeup?

Cleanliness is Key

Always start with clean hands and a clean face. Wash your hands before applying makeup to prevent transferring bacteria or other pathogens and irritants to your eyes. Ensure your brushes and applicators are clean, washing them regularly with mild soap and water.

Makeup Hygiene Tips Everyone Should Know

What is the most sanitary way to apply foundation?

Washing your hands is important not only before and after applying your foundation but also during (or in between) application steps. Clean hands avoid spreading bacteria onto your skin and prevent cross-contamination with products.

How do makeup artists stay sanitary?

Never use products straight from the tube (a wand, squeeze, or tube) - put on palette and work from there, for mascara and lip use disposables (but never double dip). One and done. For lotions, primers, etc. - always put on metal palette and not directly on to your hands.

How to share makeup safely?

However, dermatologists caution, you should never share your makeup. Simply put -- swapping cosmetics can mean trading germs. Makeup brushes and applicators can easily carry bacteria from one person to another, and moist, dark containers allow such germs to thrive.

How do makeup artists avoid cross contamination?

Do not be lazy and periodically wipe and sanitize all the tubes, jars, caps of foundation, etc. Before starting work, be sure to wash your hands and wipe with a special disinfectant (hand sanitizer to have on hand is great), before each touch on the skin, lips, also wipe your hands with a disenfectant.

How often should you sanitize your makeup?

Our makeup that we use every single day should be sanitized every few weeks, especially if we've been traveling or sick. If someone else has used your makeup for whatever reason, like forgetting their own makeup or simply wanting to experiment, it's best to clean immediately after each use.

What makeup should you not share?

Protect yourself from infection-causing germs

Thoroughly wash and dry your hands with a clean towel before applying skincare products and makeup. Never share makeup, particularly mascara, eyeliner and eye shadow. Wash your makeup brushes and sponges weekly, or purchase disposable applicators.

Is it sanitary to share lip gloss?

Of all the lip products to share, including lipsticks, balms and liners, lip gloss is among the most likely to transmit infections because of its gooey, watery consistency — viruses thrive in moist environments, Dr. Bhutani said.

Is sharing mascara OK?

Mascara: Mascara wands come into direct contact with the eyes and can quickly transfer bacteria, viruses, or fungi potentially leading to eye infections. Sharing mascara increases the risk of spreading these pathogens, so it's best to use and replace your own mascara regularly.

What is the cleanest makeup brand?

  1. ILIA. 1% for the planet. Cruelty free. ...
  2. Jones Road. Cruelty free. Eco friendly packaging. ...
  3. Well People. American made. Cruelty free. ...
  4. Merit Beauty. Cruelty free. Eco friendly packaging. ...
  5. 100% Pure. American made. Cruelty free. ...
  6. RMS Beauty. Cruelty free. Eco friendly packaging. ...
  7. Kosas. Cruelty free. ...
  8. Alima Pure. 1% for the planet.

How do you remove bacteria from makeup?

How to Sanitize Cream Makeup. Like other products, you can also sanitize cream products with isopropyl alcohol. Simply spray your cream products with alcohol and wait just over a minute for them to dry. Remember also to clean your products' containers with a sanitizing wipe.

Is it safe to use used makeup?

Mold is another common issue with old cosmetics because moisture builds up inside containers over time, leading to mold growth. This mold growth can trigger breakouts or other irritations. Another risk of using expired makeup is a change in the color of the product over time.

How do you sanitize makeup between clients?

Carefully remove the top layer of the powder product using a clean paper towel. Then, spray your alcohol sanitizer over the powder palette to saturate it thoroughly. Let it evaporate and dry completely before using it again.

Does rubbing alcohol sanitize makeup?

However, simply spray 70% isopropyl alcohol over every single one of your powder products (e.g. eyeshadow palettes, face powders, blushers, bronzers, etc) and ensure you thoroughly saturate. Finally, leave to evaporate and dry! We promise, they'll be OK!

How do you keep your products from being cross contaminated?

8 Ways to Prevent Cross Contamination
  1. Contact manufacturers to find out if their products are produced on shared lines. ...
  2. Wash your hands before preparing food. ...
  3. Keep surfaces clean and use safe cleaning products. ...
  4. Use separate equipment and utensils. ...
  5. Prepare allergen-free food first. ...
  6. Have allergen-free and regular condiments.

Can I share makeup with my sister?

It may sound rude to say no to sharing makeup, but it can lead to serious facial conditions that might look harmless at the moment. Just like one should never share or try makeup testers kept in the stores, you should never share some makeup products and skincare that could lead to a disaster.

How do I make my makeup non transferable?

5 MAGIC TIPS to prevent makeup transfer
  1. Make sure your face is clean and hydrated! For a successful makeup application that stays in place, you should always start with a clean and hydrated canvas! ...
  2. Always use a primer! ...
  3. Apply your makeup in small amounts! ...
  4. Always use a setting spray! ...
  5. Tilbury tip!

How to disinfect lipstick?

Twist out the lipstick and dip it (not the entire tube, just the product within ) in 70% or higher rubbing alcohol for a few seconds. Remove and let dry.

Does bacteria stay on makeup?

Skin infection is the biggest problem. Over time, bacteria and mold often contaminate makeup. These germs can cause an eye infection or a common skin infection like impetigo or folliculitis. Instead of having the desired effect, old makeup may irritate your skin.

How to sanitize makeup on Reddit?

I use 70% isopropyl alcohol in a spray bottle on my palettes and pressed powers, blushes and bronzers after I use them. Sometimes I've gone overboard with spraying but it has not affected the formulas in anyway. I spray my lipsticks, liners and eyeliners too. Once the spray dries up, ready for use again!

What is the most sanitary way to apply makeup?

More videos on YouTube
  1. Hands are tools that must be washed. The first prep-step is to wash hands thoroughly before makeup application. ...
  2. Fingers don't belong in the pot. ...
  3. The brush doesn't belong in the pot either. ...
  4. Wash makeup tools regularly. ...
  5. Don't touch your face.

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