From The Straits Times    |
How to remove any kind of makeup stains on your clothes THUMBNAIL

Nothing ruins my morning like a makeup stain. I consider myself to be very meticulous and careful when it comes to applying my makeup, but it seems like these wretched stains and spills are still unavoidable. It’s frustrating and terribly devastating when I have to throw a shirt as new out just because I can’t get rid of the awful stain. 

After whole lot of investigative work and experimentations, I found out that most makeup stains can be removed with the right solutions and a little patience! Whether it’s a fresh red lipstick smudge or a dollop of foundation, we’ve got you covered. 

Here are 5 different types of stains that you might encounter and how you can remove them. You can now kiss that red smudge goodbye!


Image: ayphoto/123rf.com

1. Lipstick
Fire-engine red might seem like it can cause some serious damage, but it is actually one of the easiest stains to remove. Spritz some hairspray on the stain, let it sit for 15 minutes, dab it with a sponge and then hand wash it. 


Image: Nik Merkulov/123rf.com

2. Liquid foundation
Due to the oils that were meant for your face, it soaks into the fibres of the clothing very quickly, so it needs immediate attention. Start by scraping off any excess foundation with a knife or spoon, blot the stain with a cloth in a lifting motion so that you that don’t smear it deeper into the fabric. Pre-treat the affected area with a small amount of dishwashing soap (they are made to fight grease!) and use your fingers to work the solution into the stain. Hand wash it with warmest water allowed on the garment label. 


Image: picfive/123rf.com

3. Powder foundation 
First rule of thumb, do not, I repeat do not use water! It’s strange but we all seem to be programmed into believing that dapping water on any dirt will miraculously fix it. Water in this situation will only lodge the powder right into the fabric, making it even harder to remove. Just shake of the excess powder that hasn’t gone too deep and use sticky tape over the spot repeatedly, until the colour lightens. You may then wash it as normal. 


Image: Alexandr Kornienko/123rf.com

4. Mascara
You can either spray the stain well with hairspray or blot the stain with some makeup remover. Ensure that the solution is not oil based or you will end up with a bigger mess! Essentially, alcohol is the agent here that breaks the stain. You will have to repeat this a couple of times before the stain comes off. 


Image: Kitti Bowornphatnon/123rf.com

5. Eyeliner
The eyeliner has a dying effect so if it’s left for too long on clothes it may set. Just treat the affected spot with a commercial prewash stain remover and launder it in the warmest water the fabric will allow to get out the stain.