How to Remove Regular and Long Wear Lipstick Stains.

Removing Lipstick Stains

It never fails that lipstick will get on the wrong place at the wrong time. Ever since it was invented, lipstick stains have presented a problem whenever they appear anyplace except on a woman’s pretty lips.

When my daughters were little, they just loved to imitate momma wearing my “ki-ki’s” (high heels) and experimenting with my make-up and let me tell you, there were all kinds of makeup stains and makeup stains are not the easiest to remove either, especially lipstick stains. But we avoided the potential tragedy of having to toss the clothes as these stains can be removed.

Most lipsticks are made of wax, oils, and dyes and pigments (color) and because of this more than one method (at a time) will need to be used.

Prior to Removing Lipstick Stains

If you should happen to drop the tube of lipstick and it has created a clump of lipstick; carefully use a dull knife or similar to remove excess lipstick before proceeding with a cleaning method.

• Always be sure to check the label and wash accordingly.
• Do not scrub the stain as it will push the stain deeper into the fabric.
• For best results, dry clean items should be taken to the professionals.
• Place paper towels or a clean rag under the lipstick stain prior to cleaning. Stained side should be facing down.

After Applying Stain Remover and Washing

Remember with any stained item you have treated and washed; do not place in the dryer unless the stain has been removed or you can permanently set the stain in the fabric.

Removing Lipstick Stains on Washable Fabric

Below are some tips for treating and removing lipstick stains from washable fabrics:

Using Dish Soap

Squeeze a little dish soap over the stain, then using your fingertip or clean toothbrush; gently move the soap around working it into the stain. Next wet a clean cloth and blot into the dish soap, rinse and wet the cloth again and let sit on top of the stain for about 20 minutes. Launder.

Using Rubbing Alcohol

Soak a cotton ball in rubbing alcohol and gently blot covering all areas of the lipstick stain. Get a wet cloth, blot then lay on top of the stain and let sit for about 15 minutes. Launder.

Removing Long Wear Lipstick from Lips

Long wear lipstick is appealing as you won’t have to reapply every hour or so, especially if you’re out for a long night. The problem is it can be hard to remove without a lot of scrubbing and leaving your lips a little raw.

First blot your lips on a tissue until no color comes off. Then apply a fair amount of Vaseline Petroleum Jelly or baby oil over your lips (or stained skin surrounding lips) and let sit a few minutes.

Next use a cotton pad (not a cotton ball as it will leave fuzz behind) and blot your lips again, pressing down firmly on cotton pad to remove color. Repeat as needed.

Other items that can help remove long wear lipsticks:

• Lip balm
• Cold cream
• There are also lip tint removers you can purchase.