Shoppers may want to think twice before dipping their fingers into the tester makeup displayed at local makeup stores. While trying out these products is a good indicator if the makeup is a perfect match, it can also lead to some dire consequences.
These samples sit out all day, opened in a moist environment. Unfortunately, the testers are not replaced as often as one would like to think. Some samples go years before employees swipe them out for a clean, fresh one.
According to the Today Show, department store makeup testers have been found to contain all kinds of bacteria including strep, E. coli and staph. New York City dermatologist, Dr. Whitney Bowe said, “You can absolutely get herpes infection from a makeup tester. The more ‘double dipping’ that occurs, the higher the chance of spreading viruses or bacteria at a makeup counter.”
Senior, Morgan Parkhurst said, “I always test the makeup in stores. This has really made me think twice about trying out the makeup sample. The stores make it seem like they keep the testers clean. I had no idea that these samples could contain massive amounts of bacteria.”
A study was done to analyze the tester makeup by the investigative team, Rossen Reports on the Today Show. They tested makeup from Ulta, Sephora, and Macy’s. The samples all came back with bacteria. This included bacteria that is usually only found in fecal matter and even Staphylococcus aureus, which can cause boils to break out across the face.
The health risks are not worth testing makeup before purchasing. People should at least only test products out on their hands, disinfect the sample, use a clean applicator, and wash the makeup off immediately afterward. It is much safer to purchase the product and return if unsatisfied. Customers are ultimately relying on the general population to practice good hygiene skills. This is very unlikely and virtually impossible that everyone will chose to do so. In other words, don’t test the testers.
