How to Sanitize Your Makeup Collection

Alcohol-based sanitizers kill bacteria on most makeup products without destroying the formula.

Sanitizing makeup is like changing your sheets—basic hygiene that shouldn't require a special occasion.

1. Sanitize powder products. Spray 70% isopropyl alcohol directly onto eyeshadows, blushes, and pressed powders. Let it sit for 30 seconds, then air dry completely. The alcohol evaporates without affecting pigmentation or texture.
2. Clean cream products. Scrape off the top layer of cream blushes, lipsticks, and concealers with a clean spatula or tissue. Then spray with alcohol and let dry. This removes surface bacteria while preserving the product underneath.
3. Handle liquid products. Wipe bottle exteriors with alcohol-soaked cotton pads, focusing on pump dispensers and caps where bacteria accumulate. Never add alcohol directly to liquid formulas as it breaks down the consistency.
4. Sanitize tools and brushes. Spray brush ferrules and handles with alcohol between uses. For quick cleaning, swirl brushes on a tissue sprayed with sanitizer. Deep clean weekly with gentle shampoo and water.