Many of us don’t realize that our beauty products can harbor bacteria, yeast, and fungi. A recent study revealed that 79 to 90 percent of cosmetics were contaminated with potentially harmful microorganisms. Beauty blending sponges, in particular, were found to have the highest levels of contamination, with 93 percent of users admitting they had never cleaned theirs.
While the presence of these microbes in our beauty routines is a legitimate concern, there are several easy measures you can take to ensure that your cosmetics remain clean and safe for use.
- Always wash your hands before applying makeup.
- Keep cosmetics properly sealed when not in use.
- Clean cosmetic brushes weekly using a mild shampoo.
- Daily wash your makeup sponges (beauty blenders) with warm, soapy water and allow them to dry completely.
- Avoid sharing makeup products.
- Refrain from applying makeup on broken skin, sores, or cuts.
- If you suspect an eye infection or notice redness around the eye area, wait until it heals before using eye makeup.
- Request individual-use applicators when trying out makeup.
- Dispose of old makeup and applicators regularly.
- Store your cosmetics in a cool, dry environment.
