Okay, let’s face it. How long have you had your favorite bronzer? Or your perfect brush for contouring? Probably too long. Whether it’s because we are too cheap to frequently purchase new makeup or simply too attached to our beloved beauty tools, there’s no denying that we neglect to replenish our supply on a regular basis. If you don’t think this is a big deal, Jo Gilchrist’s terrifying experience will change your mind.
After using a friend’s makeup brush and cover-up, Jo Gilchrist became infected with the life-threatening MRSA, or methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus, which was caused from staph bacteria on the makeup brush. Doctors say that this 27-year-old mom will have to spend the remainder of her life both in need of a wheelchair and also without any control of her bladder or bowel.
Gilchrist being pushed by her 2-year-old son, picture originally posted on Buzzfeed.
As horrifying as this sounds, Jo Gilchrist is a fighter and will not let a mere makeup brush dictate her future. In fact, she is already learning to walk again and properly care for her 2-year-old son. With hard work and patience, hopefully Jo Gilchrist will be able to resume her normal life soon.
Moral of the story: most of us put makeup on our face every single day. Make sure what you’re covering your precious skin with is both healthy and safe. If you’re unsure of how long to keep certain items, refer to this makeup timeline, courtesy of beauty.com.
Concealer: 12 months
Powder: 2 years
Cream & gel cleansers: 1 year
Pencil eyeliner: 3 years if sharpened regularly
Eyeshadow: 3 years
Brushes: Wash every 2-3 months with a mild detergent, replace if bristles are falling apart, turning stiff, or if the brush isn’t in the original shape.
Sponges: Wash weekly and discard monthly
Foundations: A water-based foundation will last up to 12 months, oil-based will last up to 18 months.
Lip liner: 3 years
Lipstick: 1-2 years
Mascara: 4 months
Nail Polish: 12 months