March 27, 2025

Makeup can be your best friend when you’re getting ready, but it’s not so friendly when it smudges onto your clothes. Fortunately, removing makeup stains doesn’t have to be a hassle. With the right techniques, you can restore your favorite outfits without leaving a trace of the stain. Here are some foolproof methods to get those pesky makeup stains out quickly and effectively.

Tackle Foundation Stains with Shaving Cream

Foundation stains, especially liquid ones, can be stubborn. The secret weapon you didn’t know you had? Shaving cream! Here’s what to do:

  • Blot, don’t rub the excess foundation with a clean paper towel.
  • Apply a dollop of shaving cream directly onto the stain.
  • Gently rub the cream into the fabric with your fingers or a soft brush.
  • Let it sit for 10 minutes before rinsing it with cool water.

The foam breaks down oils in the foundation, making it easy to wash away. Follow this with your regular laundry routine, and you’re set!

Remove Lipstick Stains with Rubbing Alcohol

Lipstick is designed to last all day, and it clings to fabric just as effectively. Luckily, you can get it out without too much hassle.

  • Start by scraping off any excess lipstick with a dull knife or credit card.
  • Dab a small amount of rubbing alcohol on a cotton ball or cloth and gently blot the stain.
  • Continue blotting until the lipstick lifts from the fabric.
  • Rinse with cold water and toss it into the wash.

Remember, rubbing alcohol evaporates quickly so that it won’t damage most fabrics, but always do a spot test to be safe.

Conquer Mascara Stains with Dish Soap

Mascara smudges are another common culprit when makeup mishaps happen. Since mascara is often waterproof, you need something that can cut through the oil in the formula.

  • Wet the stained area with cold water.
  • Use a little dish soap on the stain.
  • Rub the fabric gently together, or use a toothbrush with a soft bristle to scrub the affected area.
  • Rinse thoroughly with cold water and launder as usual.

This method works because dish soap is designed to tackle greasy messes, and mascara is no exception!

Powder Based Stains? Use Baby Powder or Cornstarch

Powdered makeup, such as eye shadow or blush, can easily spill onto your clothes. The trick here is to absorb the powder before it sets.

  • Shake off any excess powder by tapping the fabric.
  • Sprinkle baby powder or cornstarch onto the stain.
  • Let it sit for 10-15 minutes so it can absorb the oils.
  • Brush off the powder with a soft cloth and check the stain.
  • If necessary, follow up with a light washing using dish soap or laundry detergent.

By absorbing the oil first, you’re preventing the powder from sinking deeper into the fabric.

General Tip: Avoid Hot Water!

One of the most important things to remember when learns how to get makeup stains out of clothes is never to use hot water right away. Heat can set the stain, making it even harder to remove. Always start with cold water to gently rinse the stain before applying any cleaning agents.

Conclusion

No matter how careful you are with makeup, accidents are bound to happen. Knowing these quick and easy hacks will save your favorite pieces from the trash. Whether its foundation, lipstick, mascara, or powder, these stain-removing methods ensure that makeup doesn’t leave a lasting mark on your wardrobe. Always act quickly, and your clothes will stay fresh and clean!