Makeup stains can be a fashion nightmare. Whether its foundation smudging your collar or lipstick staining your favorite blouse, these marks can be tricky to remove. However, with the right techniques, you can quickly rescue your clothing from stubborn stains without any hassle. Here’s how to get makeup stains out of clothes effectively.
Act Fast: Speed is Key
The sooner you tackle the stain, the better. Fresh makeup stains are much easier to remove than ones that have been left to set. Immediately after discovering the stain:
- Blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel. This helps absorb any excess product without pushing it further into the fabric.
- Avoid rubbing, as it can smear the makeup deeper into the fibers, making it harder to clean.
Use Dish Soap for Foundation and Concealer
Foundation and concealer are notorious for leaving behind unsightly marks on clothing. To tackle these oil-based stains, dish soap works wonders. Here’s the process:
- Dab a small amount of liquid dish soap onto the stained area.
- Gently work it into the fabric with your fingers or a soft cloth.
- Rinse with warm water and repeat if necessary.
This method works well on both oil-free and oil-based foundations.
Lipstick and Lip Gloss: Remove Grease First
Lipsticks and lip glosses often contain oils that can make stains even more stubborn. To handle these, a grease-cutting agent like rubbing alcohol or a makeup remover can help.
- Apply a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball or cloth.
- Blot the stain, avoiding aggressive rubbing.
- Once the grease is lifted, wash the item using a regular laundry detergent.
If you don’t have rubbing alcohol, hairspray can also be an excellent alternative to break down the oils.
Eye Shadow and Powder Products: Go for Sticky Tape
Loose powders like eye shadow and blush can be removed with ease if they haven’t been smeared. Sticky tape is a quick fix here:
- Press a piece of tape gently onto the stain, sticky side down.
- Lift away the powder by carefully pulling off the tape.
Repeat this until most of the powder is lifted. Then, wash as usual to remove any remaining residue.
Tackle Waterproof Products with Makeup Remover
Waterproof mascara, eyeliner, and other long-lasting products are designed to stay put. Traditional soap and water will need more here. Instead:
- Soak a cotton pad in an oil-based makeup remover.
- Blot the stain without rubbing.
- Rinse the area with cold water and launder as normal.
Oil-based removers are perfect for breaking down the long-lasting ingredients in waterproof products, preventing any permanent marks on your clothing.
When All Else Fails, Try a Stain Remover
If none of the DIY methods work, a good old-fashioned stain remover can save the day. Products like OxiClean or Shout are effective on all kinds of makeup stains. For best results:
- Apply the stain remover directly to the affected area.
- Let it sit for 5-10 minutes to break down the particles.
- Wash the garment in the washing machine, following the care label instructions.
Make sure to check the stain before drying, as heat can set the makeup permanently if it’s still present.
Conclusion
Makeup stains don’t have to mean the end of your favorite clothes. By acting quickly and using the right tools—whether it’s dish soap, rubbing alcohol, or even sticky tape—you can easily get makeup stains out of clothes. With these simple methods, you can keep your wardrobe fresh, clean, and makeup-free, even on your busiest days.
