Many of us strive to look our best when it comes to beauty routines, but safety should never be sacrificed for style. From hairstyling tools to beauty treatments, there are risks involved if precautions aren’t taken. Here are some practical tips to help you avoid common beauty accidents, keeping your skin, hair, and body safe while you enhance your look.
- Choose Quality Tools and Products
Investing in quality beauty tools and products can make a huge difference in your experience and results. Cheap, low-quality products might seem like a budget-friendly option, but they can damage your skin and hair or cause allergic reactions. Choose reputable brands that are dermatologist-tested, especially for skincare products, and avoid counterfeit items that may contain unsafe ingredients—these can easily result in a beauty accident before you know it.
- Read Instructions and Conduct Patch Tests
Always read the instructions carefully, whether it’s a new skincare product, hair dye, or eyelash adhesive. Many beauty products require specific usage instructions for effective and safe application, including how long to leave products on and how to apply them. A patch test is a simple precaution that helps identify any allergic reaction before you use a product on your face or body. Apply a small amount on your inner arm and wait 24 hours. Avoid using the product entirely if there’s any redness, itching, or discomfort.
- Be Cautious with DIY Beauty Treatments
While DIY beauty hacks can be fun and economical, they also carry risks. Some treatments, such as at-home facials, masks, and hair colouring, are generally safe, but more advanced treatments like chemical peels or waxing should be handled carefully. If you’re attempting a treatment you’re unfamiliar with, consult tutorials from reputable sources or, better yet, seek help from a professional.
- Avoid Overusing Heat Styling Tools
Heat styling tools, such as straighteners, curling irons, and blow dryers, can give your hair the desired look, but overuse or excessive heat can cause damage. Avoid using these tools daily, and always apply a heat protectant spray to minimise heat damage. Try to keep the temperature below 350°F (180°C) and use tools with ceramic plates, which distribute heat more evenly and are gentler on your hair.
- Practice Proper Hygiene with Makeup Tools
Makeup brushes, sponges, and applicators collect bacteria over time, and using dirty tools can lead to skin infections or breakouts. Clean your makeup brushes every two weeks, and replace sponges regularly to avoid bacterial buildup. Also, avoid sharing makeup products with others to prevent the transfer of bacteria or potential skin issues. Store your makeup in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to preserve its quality and prevent bacteria growth.
- Stay Mindful of Expiration Dates
Beauty products, like food, have expiration dates, and using them past their recommended date can lead to skin irritation and infections. Mascara and liquid eyeliners, in particular, can harbour bacteria after a few months, increasing the risk of eye infections. Regularly check your products and discard any that are past their expiration date. Write the date of purchase on the container with a marker to easily track how long you’ve been using each product.
- Consult Professionals for Advanced Treatments
While many treatments can be done at home, some are best left to professionals. Procedures like laser hair removal, chemical peels, and microdermabrasion require expertise and specialised equipment to be done safely. If you’re interested in these advanced treatments, visit a licensed and qualified beauty professional.