Safe Ways to Test Makeup Before Purchase

Have you ever found yourself drawn to a new lipstick shade, only to discover it doesn’t suit you? Or perhaps you’ve mistakenly bought a blush color that makes you look like a character from an outdated ’80s film. We can all relate to these beauty blunders.

Makeup can have a hefty price tag, and no one wants to waste money on products that don’t complement them. While testing products in-store can address some of these issues, it also introduces risks. Shared samples can harbor harmful bacteria and germs, potentially leading to skin irritations, breakouts, or worse—serious infections.

The positive news is there are safe ways to sample cosmetics before you commit to a purchase. By following these five tips, you can minimize the risk of exposure to unpleasant germs while testing makeup. (See also: 12 Makeup Hacks From the Pros)

1. Request a freshly prepared tester

Your first step should be ensuring that the tester you’re about to use is freshly prepared. Ask a sales associate for help with this crucial step. Research from Rowan University in 2004 revealed that a staggering 67 to 100 percent of makeup samples tested over two years contained bacteria. Gross!

To obtain a clean tester, observe the sales associate as they prepare the sample. The method varies by product type. For lipsticks, the rep should first scrape away the top layer, spray or dip it in alcohol, and then wipe it clean with a tissue. Always apply using a clean, disposable applicator or brush offered by the staff—never your fingers or dirty brushes, as these can contaminate the product.

With lip liners and eyeliner pencils, the contamination issue is primarily superficial, making them easy to prep with a simple sharpening. (See also: Here’s How Long Your Beauty Products Really Last)

2. Sample on your wrist

Even with a prepared tester, caution is advisable. For many beauty products, contamination can seep deeper than the surface layer, posing unnecessary risks.

It’s best to avoid applying anything directly to your eyes or lips, where the likelihood of catching an infection is heightened. Instead, test the product on your wrist or the back of your hand; this way, you can evaluate the color without exposing yourself to harm.

Testing on your cheek or neck is generally safe, although there could be some skin irritation. While it’s not ideal, a rash or breakout can be manageable compared to other risks. Once you’re home, be sure to cleanse your face thoroughly. (See also: 15 Frugal and Natural Ways to Fight Acne)

3. What to skip entirely

While sampling products can be beneficial, there are certain items you should completely avoid testing.

Mascara

Mascara is notoriously hard to test safely. The wand can carry bacteria, making it risky to apply near your eyes. You might consider asking for a tester wand, but there’s still a chance someone before you has used it improperly. Moreover, using a tester wand won’t allow you to assess the specific wand that comes with the mascara, which affects its performance.

Eyeliner

Though sharpening it can make eyeliner safer to use, it still poses risks when applied too close to the eyes. Instead, try swatching the eyeliner on your hand or wrist to get an idea of its appearance.

Powder products

Powdered makeup or those contained in pots or jars should be completely avoided. Contamination can easily compromise the entire product by reaching beneath the surface or clinging to the container’s edges, regardless of how it’s prepared.

4. Ask for a new sample

Not all makeup stores offer this, but many are willing to provide fresh samples if you ask. Retailers like Ulta and Sephora often keep small samples available specifically for customers who request them. Out of courtesy, try to limit your requests to one or two samples.

5. Order online samples

To bypass the germy shared testers in stores, opt to have fresh samples shipped to your home. Brands like MAC and Sephora allow you to select free samples with every online order. These mini products are individually packaged, ensuring no one else has used them.

If you’re an Amazon Prime member, take advantage of the Prime Samples program, which allows you to buy individual beauty product samples for $2-$4. After purchasing, you receive a store credit equal to your sample’s value for a future full-size product purchase if you find something you like. (See also: 5 Online Stores That Let You Try Before You Buy)

Another option is a beauty subscription service such as Ipsy or Birchbox. For $10 a month, you can receive multiple beauty samples tailored to your preferences, making it a cost-effective way to explore new cosmetics. (See also: Which Beauty Subscription Boxes Are Worth the Cost?)