Taking Precautions Seriously: Makeup Sanitation
By Valencia Harris
Makeup artists: Are there times when you are so caught up in the rhythm of your artistry that you don’t take the proper precautions to sanitize cosmetic products or clean brushes in between clients? I find that often times, my client is so eager to try the latest lipstick shade, eye shadow, or mascara they just saw featured in a beauty magazine that they instantly apply the product without letting me properly sanitize it first. Do you try and stop them before the product makes contact with the skin, so you can properly clean it, or do you watch them apply an unsanitary product? It is risky enough for one person alone to use cosmetics and brushes and not clean them thoroughly, but once products are shared with others, it is essential to properly sanitize all cosmetics and brushes to prevent bacteria and infections from spreading…and as the professional, it is our responsibility to take this precaution.
Because work can get crazy, it is important to stock key items in your cosmetic case at all times, such as sanitizer, alcohol, fresh water, brush cleaner, disposable wipes, disposable lip brushes, and disposable mascara wands. There are several brush cleaners on the market which not only remove makeup from brushes, but also kill bacteria and germs on the brushes, which will decrease your chance of spreading germs from one client to the next. Owning duplicates of the same brushes in your kit also helps the sanitizing process so you can clean brushes between clients, but still have another brush available to not slow down your progress. Once the first set has absorbed the brush cleanser, it is then safe to reuse the set. Sanitizing all lipsticks and pencils are steps that should be taken between clients. Due to the fact that pencils can become jagged if not properly sharpened, you always want to ensure they are fresh and smooth before applying to the client’s eyes or lips. Disposable lip and mascara wands are also mandatory because they keep the products less contaminated, as long as there is no double dipping.
Lastly, key factors for keeping your cosmetics and brushes clean involve maintenance to your makeup kit, making sure it is clean and up to date. Prepping your kit the day before eliminates part of your sanitation process once dealing directly with clients. Take the time to remove all products from your kit, wipe your kit out entirely, and wipe all of your cosmetic containers down. Doing this regularly will help you stay more organized and hygienic when it is time to work on your clients. Remember to toss any mascara or liquid liners after three months, discard any liquid or cream based products after six months, and do not keep any powder products over two years.
