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Brushes: Brushes, ideally, should be washed after each use, but lets be real, we’re busy. Make it imperative that you wash them at least once a week. With the absorption of powder, foundation and concealer in the core of our brushes, along with natural oils on our face, we’re allowing bacteria to accumulate, causing blemishes and acne. Which’ll ultimately spoil your beloved Anastasia Beverly Hills contour kit. To clean: brushes can be washed with antibacterial soap, or pick up a brush cleanser from any of your favorite brands, like MAC cosmetics. Once you’re done, leave the brush facing head down to dry out any water at the core, otherwise you run the risk of mold buildup.
Mascara: It’s an unofficially, official rule: mascara’s need to be tossed in the trash after three months! Not only has it lost its initial creamy consistency, but you’ve been brushing your lashes with the same spoolie for 3 months — bacteria is lurking and will only grow incrementally if you continue to use it. Also, chances are, you’re applying your mascara after you’ve applied your eyeshadow, which means the micro fall out of each pigment is being picked up by your brush – diminishing the liquid consistency. If you can’t remember the last time you purchased a mascara, it’s probably time to part ways.
Foundations: If your preferred foundation doesn’t have a pump to dispense the product, never stick your fingers into an open bottle. The germs from your fingers are then being transported into the entire product. Instead, use a mini spoon to scoop out thicker foundations, or pour looser products onto the back of your hand. As for lifespan, foundations are generally good for an entire year.
Powders: Powders are dependent on your brushes cleanliness. As aforementioned, if you don’t wash your brushes often, you’re only hurting your products… and your wallet… oh, and your face.
Pencils: If your pencil is housing any bacteria, it’ll be at the tip. A quick sharpen of the outer layer will remove any buildup. Also, your sharpeners can be cleaned with a q-tip and hydrogen peroxide, or an alcoholic wet wipe.
Lipsticks: Try to purchase lipsticks in metal tube, because metal tends to accumulate less germs than plastic. If your favorite mauve rose shade begins to look a little funky, your best option is to spin the product up slightly, and remove the top layer with a knife for clean cut.
Any product with a sponge tip: These should always be applied to the back of your hand or onto a metal tray. Especially when applying concealers — if you’re looking to cover a pimple, never put the applicator directly on the blemish. Rather, place it onto a clean hand or finger, then tap it onto your blemish.
Rule of thumb for all cosmetics: Avoid heat. Leaving your makeup bag in your car, or in prolonged sun exposure can ruin the product. You compromise the quality and consistency of some products from melting.
When it comes to your cosmetics, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Bacteria build up can cause breakouts, irritation on sensitive skin, and even pesky infections. It’s takes a little bit of effort to clean up your cosmetics, and a lot of effort to restock when it’s spoiled. If you’re experiencing an unusual outbreak of acne, think about the last time you cleaned your makeup. Remember, healthy skin begins with clean skin!
If you adhere to cosmetic cleanliness, but you’re still experiencing persistent acne, then it’s time to see a dermatologist. Trusted, New York-based practitioner, Dr. Albert Lefkowitz, can identify the source of the problem and help fix it; that way we’re not spoiling a perfectly good Laura Mercier powder compact.
Send us an email if you’re interested in connecting with Dr. Lefkowtiz: [email protected]
By: Yasmine Rimawi