I do a number of productions as well and this has taught me how to be a clean freak when it comes to my equipment.
Lets remember I’m a self-taught makeup artist and we are the best kind because experience has taught us. So what are the key things or items to consider for hygiene?
Brushes
This tool is key to keep it clean. The brush has more skin contact then any other tool in your case.
Brush Hygiene
As a makeup artist you can invest in a brush cleaner they are various brand that have launched brush cleaners. Spray some of the brush cleaner onto a kitchen towel and just clean your brush. Its now safe to use the brush on someone else.
Mascara
Dipping the mascara wand and using it on various clients is very unhygienic. It’s advisable to clean your wand in between use, and never double dip the wand.
Just take a wet wipe (one that is antiseptic) before you dip it back into mascara.
Testing 1,2
Have you ever walked into a cosmetic store and tried out one of their testers and reacted? Very many customers have come in and tested the product and you have gone again and left bacteria on the product. Just take some wet wipes and clean your hands first before trying anything in the shop.
Makeup Bag
You can be the most hygienic makeup artist but if you don’t wash your make case or bag or even your brush bag then I’m sorry to say there’s nothing you have done but re-contaminate your tools.
Eye Liners/Pencils
Sharing pencils is a big no no for hygiene purposes always ensure you sharpen in between use, then slightly wipe the tip with a wipe. After please clean the sharpener.
Lipstick
I’m so used to applying lipsticks on my client that I go ahead and chip some lipstick then use my brush. If you need to apply directly from the bullet, sanitize the lipstick or greater and remove the top layer by wiping with a tissu
Makeup Replacement
Replace your makeup regularly. Especially products developed for the eyes. The general rule is typically to change your mascara and your eyeliner every four to six months. I recommend replacing every four to six weeks. If at any point in time you or a client develop an eye infection like conjunctivitis or pink eye, you should immediately throw away any makeup that has come in contact with your eyes and just start fresh with new products.
Rules of thumb for replacing other products:
If foundation has a pump, then it will last longer. If you are dabbing your fingers into a bottle you should be tossing your foundation makeup every six months.
Face powders, bronzers and powder product can last for well more than a year. If there is shine on the surface or it begins to smell funny, throw it away.
Most experts say lipstick, liner and glosses are good for two years, but be aware of the smell of the product and exposure. If you have cold sores or other infections regularly replace all product that comes in contact after a break out.
Make sure you sanitize any tools including tweezers, scissors and lash curlers.
