Perfectly blended makeup products on the face are a delight, but pesky stains and splashes on one’s dress aren’t so thrilling. We have all been there—a hideous, obvious makeup stain on your dress at the last minute, just when you’re about to dash out. There’s nothing more frustrating than dealing with a smudge of foundation or a lipstick smear when you don’t have an extra minute to spare. It’s too late, you can’t change your outfit, you have to get the stain off. Don’t panic, you can worsen the stain if you do. Fortunately, makeup stains aren’t as permanent as they may seem. With the right techniques and a bit of patience, you can remove makeup stains from clothes effectively.
Don’t Panic, Act Fast
The faster you act, the easier it is to get rid of all the stains. Fresh stains are much easier to remove than ones that have set into the fabric. You have to be careful while you remove the dress so as not to spread the stains all over the fabric. The sooner you get to treating the fabric, the sooner you get to leave the house.
The second step is to get the bulk of the stain off, depending on the makeup product. If it is a huge splash, you might want to gently scrape the liquid off with a flat object, then you can continue by blotting the stain with a clean cloth or paper towel to absorb as much makeup as possible. Blot, do not run. Rubbing will push the stain further into the fabric.
Removers
Dish Soap or Liquid Laundry Detergent
Dish soap and liquid laundry detergent are your go-to solutions for most makeup stains, especially those with an oil base. Just as they clean the oil effortlessly from the kitchen utensils, they are also effective at breaking down the oil components in makeup products. Put some directly on the stain, gently work it in, and rinse with cold water.
Rubbing Alcohol or Makeup Remover
Rubbing alcohol is also a powerful stain remover for oil-based products like lipstick and mascara. Makeup removers, especially those formulated for waterproof makeup, are also effective. Dab a small amount onto the stain, let it sit, and then rinse thoroughly.
Shaving Cream
Believe it or not, shaving cream can be a lifesaver for foundation stains. Apply a generous amount to the stain, work it in with your fingers, and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing with cold water. The foaming action helps lift the makeup from the fabric.
Hydrogen Peroxide
For light-coloured fabrics, hydrogen peroxide can be used to treat stubborn makeup stains. Apply a small amount to the stain, let it fizz, and then rinse with cold water. Be cautious with darker fabrics, as hydrogen peroxide can bleach or lighten the fabric.
Baking Soda
For tough stains, make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply it to the stain, gently scrub with a soft brush, and let it sit for a few minutes before rinsing. Baking soda can help lift stains and deodorise the fabric. Stay up to date on the latest in fashion, arts, beauty, and lifestyle by following FAB L’Style Magazine.
Wash and Inspect to Remove makeup stains from clothes
After treating the stain, wash the garment as you normally would, following the care instructions on the label. Use cold water, as hot water can set the stain if it hasn’t been fully removed. Once washed, inspect the area before drying.
Note: Before applying any treatment, check the care label on the garment. Certain fabrics, like silk or wool, require special handling.
