Rheal Tips to Avoid Makeup Contamination

Most women have fond memories of playing with their mother’s makeup or remember the first time spent with friends experimenting with eye shadow, mascara or lipstick. Do you remember in sixth, seventh or eighth grade applying lipstick between classes only to wash off every trace before you got home and got in trouble? There was nothing unusual about asking to borrow someone else’s lipstick or mascara.

We have all been taught that sharing is an honorable trait but sharing is never a good thing when it comes to makeup. In spite of our innate training to say, “Sure, go ahead”. Don’t! Dermatologists caution, you should never share your makeup.

At one time makeup counters at fine stores were not very careful about application of the same product on multiple women. That all changed as we became more aware of germ transmission. Makeup brushes and applicators can easily carry bacteria from one person to another, and moist, dark containers allow germs to thrive.

Never share lip and eye products that come in frequent contact with more easily infected areas of the body. Cosmetic counters today, always use disposable applicators for lip and eye product testers.

The second important cause of contamination is lack of freshness. We would never dream of eating a food past its sell by date. We change up our toothbrush on a regular basis, but we will keep the same mascara in our bag until we are applying nothing but dried flakes. If you don’t dispose of products on a realistic, self imposed, cycle you may create the perfect playground for germs that cause eye infections, sties or the herpes virus that can cause cold sores and dermatitis.


Neither toothbrushes nor most cosmetics have sell by dates. Old cosmetics should be thrown out and replaced as recommended by your spa professional. Suggested expiration dates vary between products. Liquid makeup ages faster than powder. Mascara should be replaced every eight to twelve weeks. The closed container creates a dark environment that allows germs to thrive.

Finally, be sure you pay attention your brushes and applicators. Treat them with care.

· Do not share brushes with others

· Wash them frequently in warm water with just a drop of non-allergenic liquid soap

· Never wring out the brushes

· Shake excess water from them in the sink

· Allow them to dry on a clean towel

You can share your secrets, your hopes and your dreams with your friends, but please don’t share your cosmetics or brushes. Fresh cosmetics, clean applicators and safe usage are healthy components of healthful beauty.