Make Up Microbial Contamination

I am always on the lookout for ways to make my family healthier. This one is specific to me, after checking out a few different sites I am pleased to say my eyes and face will be happier and healthier in the new year!

Did you know make up harbors microorganisms? It can be contaminated with the nasty, creepy, crawlies.. who wants to smear THAT all over your pretty faces??

 Mascara seems to be the one of the greatest causes for concern; one study found that within just three months of use, 40 percent of tested mascara tubes had some of the said "creepy crawlies" growing in them.

So what should you do? Replace your make up every three months! 

As far as your brushes go, clean them with a mild soap of your choice, olive oil and vinegar! Liquid castile is recommended, but I cannot use it since I am allergic! :( So I use a little squirt of baby shampoo. Before you begin, collect all the things you will need:

• dirty makeup brushes
• 3  small cups
• a plate
• clean towel (optional)
• olive oil
• castile soap (or any mild soap)
• warm water
• white vinegar

Remember to be gentle with your brushes. Don’t press the bristles hard, spread the bristles or pull on them! Keep in mind that you are only cleaning the bristles, you don’t want to dip the shaft of the brush into the water or vinegar since it may ruin the the glue that keeps the bristles on the brush.

1. In one of the cups mix warm water and soap to make a bath for your brushes.
2. Fill another cup with enough vinegar to dip the bristles of your longest brush.
3. Pour a small puddle of extra virgin olive oil on a plate.
4. Dip a brush in the oil and run it back and forth across the plate until it stops leaving dirty streaks.
5. Dip the brush in the soapy water.
6. Remove the brush from the soapy water and gently swirl it in the palm of your hand.
7. Repeat steps 5 and 6 until the brush is clean.
8. Gently squeeze the bristles to remove excess water.
9. Dip the bristles in white vinegar to sanitize them, then rinse them under a faucet with warm water.
10. If you want to clean the handle of the brush, wipe it with a moist, clean towel and allow them to dry!