Written by S.C.R.E.A.M. Vice President Ginger




Safety

Before applying make-up to someone for the first time do an evaluation to ensure their safety. If the person has irritated or broken skin do not apply make-up. Before ever starting remember to always ask: have you ever experienced an allergic reaction to make-up? If so, what kind of make-up? If there is any question about a product, test it by dabbing a little on a tender area of skin (like the wrist or crook of their arm). Keep in mind that some people may also have allergic reactions to the scents of different make-up/chemicals. Avoid using anything they have problems with.
You also need to ask if the person is wearing contacts. Contact-wearers are much more prone to eye irratation, and if you plan on using any chemicals with strong fumes they should either remove their contacts or keep their eyes closed while you're working. Be prepared to deal with possible problems from excessive tearing.

More Safety Tips to Remember:

• Read all directions and warnings on packaging and follow carefully
• If make-up is irritating the skin remove it and discontinue use
• Remember that skin can absorb chemicals and cause injury
• Use adequate ventilation at all times
• Never use adhesives not approved for use on human skin, or if you don't know how to remove them
• Never apply anything you do not know how to take back off
• When experimenting with household items use extra caution. Sticking to food items is the safest, but even then think before acting.
• Always think things through thouroughly beforehand. Be prepared for any possible problems.
• Never use anything toxic or that puts either you or your subject at a health risk. It isn't worth the problems.
• Never use anything that may irritate skin
• If you're not sure, don’t try it!
  

Preventing Spread of Bacteria

Many different forms of bacteria can be spread from the skin, and make-up provides the perfect breeding ground. To avoid doing so follow these steps.

• Keep make-up kit clean. If a pressed powder shatters and goes every where, clean it up!
• Wash hands before and after applying make-up to each person
• Wash all brushes & sponges (you plan to use again) after every use. Warm water and soap works fine for cream bases, a good brush cleanser is needed for oil based products.
• President's tip: If you wash with soap and water, or your brush cleanser is not a disinfectant, a quick dunk in some rubbing alcohol will kill any germs. Keep in mind though that some glues used to hold in brush bristles may not like it!
• Do not use make-up straight from container. Put a small amount on a palette and use it from there.
• If the color or smell of the make-up changes discard it!
• Never use eye products like mascarra on more than one person. Eye infections spread very easily this way.