15
June
How to Remove Makeup Stains from Clothes
How to Remove Makeup Stains from Clothes
Makeup mishaps are unavoidable, but the sight of foundation smudged on your favorite shirt or lipstick smeared across a white blouse can be panic-inducing.
Removing makeup from clothes can be tricky, but it’s not impossible. Whether it's foundation, lipstick, or mascara, the key to removing makeup stains is acting quickly and using the right methods for each type of makeup. Here's your ultimate guide to removing makeup stains from clothes without damaging fabrics, featuring easy, step-by-step instructions for foundation, lipstick, eye makeup, and more!
With the right techniques, you can rescue your clothes from even the most stubborn stains. In this guide, we’ll cover everything from how to get the foundation out of your shirt to removing stubborn mascara from a delicate blouse.
What are Makeup Stains?
Makeup products, though designed to enhance your appearance, can be the worst offenders when it comes to staining clothes. Makeup is typically oil-based or contains pigments that easily adhere to fabric, making removal challenging. The key to success is to know what type of makeup you’re dealing with and to act quickly.
Here’s a breakdown of the common types of makeup that can stain your clothes:
Foundation (liquid or powder)
Lipstick (particularly those with an oil base)
Concealer
Mascara and eyeliner (often waterproof, making them extra difficult to remove)
Hair products (like sprays and gels that can transfer onto clothes)
How to Remove Makeup from Clothing: Step-by-Step Guide
Foundation
Foundation stains can be especially tough due to their thick consistency. Here’s how to tackle them:
Gently scrape off excess foundation: If it’s a liquid foundation, use a blunt knife or spoon to lift off the excess without rubbing it into the fabric.
Blot with cold water: Don’t use hot water, as it can set the stain.
Apply a liquid detergent or dish soap: Rub gently into the stained area using your fingers or a soft cloth.
Rinse with cold water: Let the water run through the back of the stain to help push it out.
Wash as usual: Launder the garment based on the care label instructions.
Concealer
Concealer stains are similar to foundation, but usually more concentrated:
Blot with water immediately.
Apply rubbing alcohol: Dab a small amount on the stain, then blot with a clean cloth.
Use liquid detergent: Gently scrub with detergent before rinsing.
Rinse with cold water: Rinse from the back of the fabric to push out the stain.
Lipstick
Lipstick can be tricky due to its oil-based pigments:
Blot the stain with a tissue: Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper.
Apply rubbing alcohol or makeup remover: Dab onto the stain with a cotton ball.
Apply baking soda or dish soap: Scrub the area gently with a soft toothbrush.
Rinse with cold water: Rinse thoroughly before laundering.
Mascara & Eyeliner (Waterproof)
These eye products are notorious for being difficult to remove:
Use a makeup remover: A good waterproof makeup remover can work wonders on stains.
Blot with cold water: Make sure you’re dabbing, not rubbing.
Apply detergent or dish soap: Gently work it into the stain with your fingers.
Rinse thoroughly: After treating the stain, rinse and launder as usual.
Hair Products (Hair Spray, Gels, etc.)
Hair sprays and gels can often leave sticky, hard-to-remove stains:
Blot with a damp cloth: Try to remove as much product as possible.
Spray with hairspray (for oily stains): This can help loosen the stain.
Rinse with cold water: Afterward, apply dish soap and scrub gently.
Wash normally: Launder according to the garment’s care label.
Special Cases: Removing Makeup from White Clothes
White clothes are especially vulnerable to makeup stains, as pigments and oils stand out more starkly. Here’s what to do when dealing with makeup stains on white clothes:
Act fast: The longer the stain sits, the harder it will be to remove.
Use hydrogen peroxide: For white fabrics, this gentle bleach can help lift stains. Apply a small amount to the stain and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing.
Avoid harsh scrubbing: Scrubbing too hard can damage delicate fabrics and spread the stain.
Preventing Makeup Stains on Clothes
Prevention is key! Follow these tips to minimize makeup stains on your clothing:
Put clothes on after makeup: This is the most foolproof method—get fully dressed after finishing your makeup.
Use setting spray: Ensure your makeup is set and dry before dressing to avoid transfer.
Use a makeup robe: Keep a button-up shirt or robe on while doing makeup to protect your clothes.
Invest in makeup shields: These disposable shields can protect your clothes during makeup application.
Best Practices for Dealing with Makeup Stains
No matter the type of makeup stain, there are a few key rules to follow:
Blot, don’t rub: Rubbing will push the makeup deeper into the fabric, making it harder to remove.
Cold water is your friend: Always use cold water, as hot water can set stains.
Treat stains immediately: The faster you act, the better chance you have of removing the stain completely.
Removing makeup stains from clothes doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right techniques for each type of makeup, you can tackle stains quickly and effectively—keeping your wardrobe looking as fresh as your face. The key is to act fast, use the right products, and never panic!
Ready to take your makeup skills to the next level?
Learn more about professional makeup applications and how to prevent stains like a pro with Makeup School Sydney!
FAQ
How can makeup be removed from clothing?
Answer: It looks wonderful on a wide-necked top, robe, or button-up shirt. The goal is to wear something unaffected by getting makeup on it while you go about your daily business. To prevent your makeup from becoming smudged when you take off your clothing to get clothed, it should also be simple to remove.
Can foundation spots be removed with vinegar?
Answer: Mix equal parts water and vinegar or lemon juice. After putting the mixture on the stain, give it ten to fifteen minutes to settle. Once done, rinse well.
Can makeup be taken off of clothing?
Answer: Your clothes could receive stains from the cosmetics you use on your face, whether you're getting ready for work or your kids are playing with makeup. On the other hand, stain dilution, spot treatment with a stain remover or detergent, and warm water washing are typically effective methods for removing these stains.
Is makeup stains removable with detergent?
Answer: Use a little detergent to remove any liquid makeup that you use as a base, even if you unintentionally spilled some down your jeans or brushed your cheek against your shirt's sleeve.
Can I clean my makeup remover by hand?
Answer: Of course! Use dish soap or your face cleanser for hand washing and spot treatment.
What Removes Makeup Stains From Carpet?
Answer: You may use a variety of everyday objects to remove makeup stains. These include toothpaste, rubbing alcohol, and baking soda.