Dirty looks
KATIE WRIGHT LEARNS ABOUT HEALTH HAZARDS LURKING IN YOUR MAKE-UP BAG
A TIKTOK video of a beauty influencer cutting open a brand new make-up sponge to reveal mould has gone viral, racking up more than 18 million views.
Viewers of the post by Kaitlyn Son, aka mycorneroftheuniverse, were horrified that even an unused sponge could be so dirty, but what else could be hiding in your make-up bag?
EYE MAKE-UP
“Eye make-up is probably the most important part of your make-up bag to maintain good hygiene, due to the delicate tissues around the eyes making it easier for pathogens to cause infections and acting as a direct entry point,” says Dr Hana
Patel, GP and women’s health specialist at Superdrug Online Doctor.
“Mascara and eyeliner tubes create a dark and moist environment, which is conducive to the growth of bacteria and harmful microorganisms,” Dr Patel says.
“To minimise these risks, it is recommended to replace these products every three to six months, and avoid pumping the wand, as this introduces air and can lead to contamination.”
It’s also important never to share eye makeup products and if you notice “any signs of irritation, redness, or itching, discontinue use immediately”.
BASE PRODUCTS
“Not practising good hygiene with foundation, powders, bronzers and blushes can result in skin irritation and acne through transferred bacteria entering and clogging your pores,” says Dr Patel.
In addition, make-up brushes or blenders used to apply base products can be a magnet for bacteria.
“Brushes collect all sorts of undesirable debris, including your make-up product, dirt and oil,” says Dr Miriam Adebibe, aesthetic doctor and founder of Dr Miriam A Skin Clinic.
Dr Simon Theobalds, GP at Pall Mall Medical recommends washing your make-up brushes at least once a week: “You can use a gentle, antibacterial soap or a specialised brush cleanser for this purpose.
“It’s vital to ensure that your brushes and beauty blenders dry completely between uses, as damp tools create a breeding ground for bacteria.”
Once dry, store in a clean, dry environment.
Dr Theobalds adds: “Always wash your hands before applying make-up to prevent transferring dirt and bacteria onto your face and make-up tools.”
LIPSTICK AND GLOSS
Swiping lipstick or balm directly from the bullet onto your lips may be the most convenient application method, but it’s not the most hygienic.
It’s best to use clean lip brushes or disposable applicators instead, “to prevent the transfer of bacteria from your lips back into the product,” Dr Theobalds says.
Never share lip products, he warns: “Especially with individuals with compromised immune systems, as this increases the risk of spreading infections.”
MAKE-UP BAG
“Make-up bags will naturally accumulate bacteria over time,” Dr Patel says. “Bacterial growth in the bag increases the risk of skin infections and irritations when using the stored products.”
Nasties can transfer from one product to another, and if you store your make-up bag in the humid environment of a bathroom it can promote bacterial growth.
To address this, Dr Patel suggests you “frequently clean both the inside and outside of your make-up bag using a mild disinfectant or wipes”.
“Use separate compartments within the bag for different types of products to prevent cross-contamination.”