Making Your Beauty Routine More Hygienic

We all know that sticking to a skincare routine is the key to a clear complexion. However, if you don’t take care to keep your routine as bacteria-free as possible, you may find yourself in a constant battle with blemishes and pore congestion. While hygiene is especially important if you have acne-prone skin, it’s also vital to other skin types including dry, aging, and sensitive skin. You may not see breakouts, but bacteria can cause a depleted moisture barrier, irritation, and inflammation. When dialing in your routine, make sure you’re taking the proper steps to make your regimen as hygienic as it is effective.

Trade Your Towels

That sink-side hand towel may match your décor, but it’s also a breeding ground for bacteria and serves as a catch-all for any germs left on hands. Not so great for drying your face post-cleanse. Get yourself some bacteria and mold-resistant bamboo face towels that will keep germs at bay while leaving skin hydrated. Even better: my pack comes with seven machine-washable towels, so you can start fresh each day!

Wash Your Tools

You think your favorite tools are helping you achieve that ideal look. However, when left unwashed, skincare tools collect bacteria that is then introduced to your skin. While you should wash all of your tools (including ice-rollers, makeup brushes, and cleansing brushes) regularly, you should be especially vigilant with eyelash curlers, dermaplaning tools, and microneedling tools. Eyelash curlers can introduce bacteria back into your eyes, causing sties and infections. Dirty exfoliation tools can infect the skin’s tender layers, causing major breakouts. Wash eyelash curlers at least every other week. Dip dermaplaning tools and micro-rollers in alcohol after each use to increase cleanliness and effectiveness.

Let Go of the Loofah

That spongy shower tool may look cute, but its material and location also make it a prime breeding ground for bacteria. A wet loofah left in the shower will start to accumulate mold, mildew, and moisture-loving bacteria. Not exactly a clean way to keep clean.

Treat Yourself

Good news! Buying makeup isn’t just a way to splurge–it’s an essential task that ensures you aren’t blotting and swiping unwanted germs all over your cheeks, lips, and eyelids. In general, you should replace most products at least once a year. Mascara should be replaced at least every three months while powder products are safer longer (up to two years) because they don’t contain oils or water.

Question about how to keep something sanitary? Comment below, and I’ll help you figure it out!