Hygiene

This topic is not about the basics of smelling good and being clean. Rather it is a mini-education on a practice that is important to look for when hiring a make-up artist.

You want a fabulous fresh look, but that isn't going to happen if your artist is using tools that aren't cleaned properly and make-up that is past expiry.

Watch for:

*a make-up artist should sanitize their brushes between each client. Using 99% alcohol will do the job quickly
*individual mascara wands will ward against bacteria (and there should be no "double-dipping" with the individual wand)
*cream make-up will house bacteria while powder make-up will not. A make-up artist who sprays the 99% alcohol solution on products like lipstick and cream blushes or one who uses a spatula to extract concealer or foundation shows they respect your face

For your own personal make-up hygiene, wash your brushes (especially ones used for cream make-ups) once a week. You can wash brushes with a mild cleanser and luke warm water or with 99% alcohol (now found beside the other alcohols and peroxides in the pharmacy). If you choose to wash with soap and water make sure the water does not get inside the ferrule (the metal part of the brush that holds the hairs).

Do not be afraid to ask your make-up artist questions relating to hygiene. After all, it is your face, and your dollar!