The right skincare routine could give us great looking skin but beneath that flawless exterior, we might unknowingly be compromising our skin’s health.
Neglecting proper care of makeup and applicators can cause skin irritation, clogged pores and even infections an expert has cautioned.
While storing cosmetics in makeup bags or handbags might seem like a smart way to keep them protected and organised, professional makeup artist Saffron Hughes from FalseEyelashes.co.uk warns that such habits may be a ticking timebomb for hygiene issues.
Dead skin cells and bacteria are routinely transferred from your brushes to the confines of your makeup bag with each application.
Worryingly, expert analyses have shown that a whopping 90% of makeup bags carry harmful superbugs including E.coli, streptococcus, and staphylococcus as the result of a shoddy cleaning routine.
Matters could get even grubbier for anyone who keeps their cosmetic bags under the sink or near the shower. A warm and wet environment can speed up the formation of mould and act as the perfect breeding ground for bugs.
Saffron had some more great advice to help keep bacteria at bay, including always making sure to keep product sealed when not in use.
She said: “Leaving lids open may seem harmless, but it’s actually a silent invitation to bacteria.
“When you use a product, always double-check that the lid is tightly shut. This simple step prevents moist air from entering the product and creates the perfect humid conditions for bacterial growth, which can lead to skin problems.”
“Dust, dead skin cells, and product build-up can accumulate on your beauty products. My research has shown that E. coli, fungus, and staphylococcus aureus can be found on these products-bacteria that can cause serious skin infections if not addressed.”
Saffron added: “Beauty blenders and other makeup sponges can harbour mould if they aren’t cleaned after each use. Their porous structure allows them to absorb dirt, oils, and leftover makeup residue, creating an environment where mould thrives if not cleaned regularly. This can lead to breakouts and other skin irritations.”
Other advice from the beauty expert, includes:
Getting rid of out of date products
Saffron said: “Before opening any new beauty product, always check the label for the expiration date indicated by a small jar symbol with a number followed by ‘M.’ After this timeframe, products decline in quality and can become breeding grounds for bacteria.”
Check product quality
If you are unsure of the expiry date of any product, you should be able to tell by the look and feel of it.
Saffron said: “One of the easiest ways to tell if your product has expired is by its smell or texture. If it develops a new distinctive odor or if liquid products have thickened or become clumpy, it’s time for them to go.”
Keep your storage areas clean
Dirty bags, drawers and surfaces can contaminate your nice clean products.
Saffron said: “It’s not just about cleaning your makeup, you must also clean where you store it! If you don’t clean your drawers or storage areas, you’re placing clean products into potentially germ-infested spaces.
“Cleaning your makeup storage area is super simple; just use a hair dryer to blow away loose dirt and dust, and then apply a mild soap solution with a microfibre towel to wipe everything down.”
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