Cleaning your makeup pencils is crucial for hygiene and preventing skin issues. Here's how to do it effectively:
Cleaning Steps
- Prepare Your Alcohol: Pour a small amount of isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher is recommended) into a small, clean jar or container.
- Sanitize the Pencil Tip: Dip the tip of the makeup pencil into the alcohol for a few seconds. Make sure to only submerge the part of the pencil that comes into contact with your skin.
- Sharpen the Pencil: After soaking, thoroughly sharpen the pencil. Rotate the pencil completely (360 degrees) within the sharpener to remove the outer layer of product that may have been contaminated. This eliminates the layer that has touched your skin.
- Clean the Sharpener: Don't forget to clean your pencil sharpener! Soak the sharpener blade in isopropyl alcohol to sanitize it and remove any product buildup. You can also use a cotton swab dipped in alcohol to clean hard-to-reach areas.
Additional Tips
- Frequency: Clean your makeup pencils regularly, especially those used around the eyes or lips, to prevent the spread of bacteria. Ideally, clean them after each use, or at least weekly.
- Drying: Allow the alcohol to evaporate completely from the pencil and sharpener before using them.
- Type of Alcohol: Isopropyl alcohol is the best choice for disinfecting makeup pencils. Avoid using other cleaning agents that may contain oils or fragrances that could irritate the skin.
- Storage: Store your clean makeup pencils in a dry, clean container to prevent contamination.
- Pencil Material: This method is generally safe for wood and plastic makeup pencils. However, always test on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure the alcohol doesn't damage the material.
By following these steps, you can maintain clean and hygienic makeup pencils, reducing the risk of breakouts and infections.