As the pandemic continues to spread across the globe, it's of the utmost importance to keep ourselves and those around us healthy right now. That's why we've stocked up on hand sanitizer, disinfectant wipes, and other sanitizing products to prevent the spread of COVID-19. But as the virus continues to spread, we're being reminded that not all the products on the market are equally effective – especially when it comes to sanitizing cosmetics!
It has never been more important to sanitize your makeup products. The question arises then, what is the best way to sanitize and protect your makeup? As it turns out, Alcohol is your most important weapon when it comes to keeping your makeup bag and its contents sanitized.
HOW DOES ALCOHOL KILL BACTERIA & VIRUSES?
It’s time to get a bit technical – so stay with us!
Bacteria are made of proteins which are composed of chains of fatty amino acids linked together. These proteins are suspended in a water-based cytoplasm and then surrounded by a membrane (cell wall) composed of fats and water molecules.
Viruses are much smaller than bacteria and consist of a single- or double-stranded nucleic acid (DNA or RNA) surrounded by a protein shell called a capsid; some viruses also have an outer envelope composed of lipids (fats) and proteins. They vary in shape.
Alcohol kills bacteria and viruses through a process known as denaturation. Alcohol molecules are amphiphile chemical compounds, which means that they have both water and fat-loving properties. Because bacterial and viral cell membranes have a fat-based side as well as a water-based side, alcohol molecules are able to bond with and break down the protective membrane.
When this occurs, the core components of the bacteria and virus are exposed and begin to dissolve. Because they cannot survive without those protein functions, the cell dies or inactivates quickly, essentially being melted apart from the inside and out.
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| Alcohol kills bacteria by damaging the cell walls of one-celled organisms. With these cell walls ruptured, bacteria perish quickly, as they can no longer function normally. |
When a virus’s proteins, lipids and RNA fall apart, the components are no longer viable and the virus becomes inactive. |
WHAT ALCOHOL CONCENTRATION WORKS BEST?
A common misconception is that the higher the alcohol content, the more effective it will be. This is not the case.
More concentrated solutions of alcohol (anything over 80%) are too powerful. Simply put, it breaks down the outside of the cell before it can penetrate the germ in question. Additionally, higher concentration alcohol evaporates very quickly and may not have enough time to destroy the cell walls sufficiently.
On the other hand, 70 percent alcohol is the perfect concoction of alcohol and water to cross a cell membrane, thereby attacking the entire cell and killing the entire bacteria or virus.
WHY IS BEAUTYSOCLEAN COSMETIC SANITIZER BETTER THAN PURE ALCOHOL?
As we’ve established thus far, a 60-80% IPA alcohol solution that contains water is suggested to effectively kill viruses and bacteria. However, with prolonged use over time, this sanitizing process can irreparably damage your makeup.
Cosmetics are generally composed of both water-soluble powders and pigments, and fat-based emollients or stabilizers. So, in much the same way as alcohol denatures bacteria, it can bind to, and damage the components of the very makeup you are trying to sanitize!
BeautySoClean Cosmetic Sanitizers have been specially formulated to prevent this from happening. By using the same emollients that are found in cosmetics, BeautySoClean Cosmetic Sanitizer rejuvenates the products while the alcohol effectively removes any germs, bacteria and viruses that are living on the surface of your makeup. Within 15 seconds, your product is 99.99% sanitized with no damage or residue. The magic is in the formula!
BeautySoClean Cosmetic Sanitizers are the only sanitizers trusted and approved for use by major brands worldwide. Our proven efficacy against viruses and bacteria, combined with the protective qualities of this formula are the defining traits of the BeautySoClean brand, and the main reason our formulas are recognized as industry standard.
As the world leaders in cosmetic hygiene, we are excited to fully support brands, counters, salons, professional makeup artists and enthusiasts alike to continue working safely around the globe. We pride ourselves in providing a formula that has been thoroughly tested and proven effective.