Don't let makeup infect bacteria and change 9 bad habits

If you don't clean your makeup products and tools regularly, they can carry a variety of bacteria and cause skin inflammation and acne. This is not an exaggeration. Here are 10 bad habits that may lead to the spread of bacteria when using cosmetics. If you want to achieve sterile and safe makeup, keep reading.

Cosmetic bag

Mistake: Bringing your makeup bag into the bathroom

Correction method: Many girls are used to carrying makeup bags and other makeup tools with them, and often pour them out in public places or in the bathroom to find the products they need. In the process, they will be contaminated with bacteria, so next time you do this, lay out a paper towel before doing it to keep it clean and hygienic!

Mistake: Stocking up on foundation, concealer, and lipstick that you haven't used for more than a year.

The fix: Unlike food, makeup products are not required to carry an expiration date, so consumers cannot tell from the label whether the product is still safe and effective. If it smells wrong, is caked, cracked, or has separated from the oil and water, then throw it away immediately! Experts say that the shelf life of most cream or liquid products is 12 months, and the shelf life of powder or solid products, such as lipstick, is 2-3 years.

Mistake: Using old mascara

Correction method: A study by Optometry shows that not changing your mascara regularly may cause bacteria to attach to your eyelashes. Bacteria that are already present in the eye can be transferred to the mascara brush, making the entire tube of mascara contain bacteria, leading to staphylococcal infection or pink eye. Although most mascaras contain preservatives to inhibit bacterial growth, the preservatives are only effective for 3 months. To be on the safe side, it is best to replace your mascara four times a year.

Mistake: Using a blunt pen to line your eyes, eyebrows, and lips

Correction method: Sharpen various makeup pencils once a week and wipe them with disinfectant wipes after each use before storing. Shaving off the outer layer removes bacteria that can cause infection and also makes it easier to apply makeup. Also, don't forget that the pencil sharpener needs cleaning as well.

Mistake: You never wash your makeup brushes

Correction: If your makeup brushes are not cleaned, they will become a collector of bacteria. Experts recommend washing your brushes every day with a professional makeup brush cleaner or warm soapy water, then squeezing out excess water with your hands. If a wet brush is placed vertically, its own weight will cause it to deform, so it should be placed flat to air dry.

Mistake: Using lipstick when you have a cold

Correction: Dr. Tierno said, "Bacteria can survive on the surface of lipstick paste, so when you have a cold, your immune system is relatively weak and you are more vulnerable to other bacteria. You should wipe the surface of lipstick with a disinfectant wipe before use."

Mistake: Using an eyelash curler with mascara stuck on it

The fix: Just like you wouldn't eat with an unwashed fork, you should use a clean eyelash curler when curling your eyelashes. Residue from unclean tools can cause eye irritation and infection. Remember to clean your eyelash curler with a disinfectant wipe after each use.

Mistake: Putting dirty fingers in the jar or touching the top of the lipstick.

Correction: Always clean your hands before applying makeup. Do not leave cosmetics exposed to the air for a long time. Clean them regularly with disinfectant wipes and tighten the bottle mouth to avoid contact with bacteria in the air.

Mistake: Keeping your makeup products next to the toilet

Correction method: When the toilet is flushed, excrement may splash everywhere, and these bacteria will fall on your cosmetics! Unless the toilet is in a separate room, skin care products and cosmetics must be stored in a sealed manner, and toothbrushes must also be placed in the cupboard. Or, close the toilet lid before flushing.