Have you ever experienced that frustrating moment when you return home excited with a new cosmetic product, only to find that its shade doesn’t suit your skin or its formula caused irritation? Testing before buying is crucial to avoid mistakes, but the problem is that makeup testers in stores can easily become “germ hotspots,” especially when handled by hundreds of people daily. So how can you enjoy trying products while keeping your skin safe?
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Why caution is necessary
Studies cited by Zahra Al Khaleej show that more than half of in-store makeup testers contain bacteria, some of which can cause skin or eye infections. Products applied directly to lips and eyes, such as lipsticks or mascaras, pose the greatest risk since infections spread easily in these sensitive areas. This doesn’t mean you must give up trying products entirely—you just need a smarter, safer approach.
Steps to protect yourself while testing makeup:
Use sterilized or personal testers:
Ask store staff for a clean sample container or have them disinfect the applicator before use. Avoid applying makeup directly from an open tester, and prefer disposable cotton swabs or single-use brushes opened in front of you.
Test colors on your hand, not your face:
Try lipstick or foundation on the back of your hand or wrist instead of lips or cheeks. This gives a good idea of the shade while minimizing infection risk. If you want a more precise foundation test, apply a small amount on your neck or jawline, then remove it immediately with makeup remover and wash your skin when home.
Be cautious with high-risk products:
Mascara: Highly prone to contamination due to its design; it’s safer to avoid in-store testing.
Liquid or pencil eyeliner: Can transmit bacteria to the eyes even after sharpening.
Powder products: May appear harmless, but contamination can be hidden beneath the surface.
Don’t hesitate to request new products:
Many major stores offer small, take-home samples. The quantity may be limited, but it allows you to try makeup in a clean, safe environment without sharing testers.
Try virtual or online options:
AI-powered virtual try-on tools are more accurate than ever. You can test lipstick or eyeshadow digitally via your phone or in-store screens. Some online stores even provide free samples with purchases, letting you safely try products at home.
A smart tip for skincare:
After any makeup trial—whether in-store or at home—thoroughly cleanse your skin with a gentle cleanser to remove any product residue or bacteria. Always patch-test new products on a small skin area for 24 hours before full-face application, especially if your skin is sensitive.
Shop like a beauty expert:
Consider makeup testing a discovery journey rather than a quick in-store moment. Focus on the product’s texture, feel, and how it suits your skin—not just the shade. Take photos under different lighting; natural light often reveals details not visible in the store. Don’t rush your purchase—give yourself time to decide and return if you’re confident about the product. These steps not only protect your skin but also ensure that the makeup you invest in is truly worth using every day.
