Isn’t it the worse when you wear that new white shirt and as you pull it over your head foundation is smeared around the neckline? Great. I can’t express how much this frustrates me. No matter what I do its inevitable that make up will somehow end up on my shirt. I’ve even tried putting on my blouse prior to putting on my makeup but then I end up hot and sweaty in my shirt. So, without spending a fortune on a new top or the dry cleaners (who can’t guarantee they will even get it out) what can we do to get those icky foundation stains out? I’ve come out with some at home solutions that do work! And these products you already own in your cabinet. Yay! 

Removing Oil Free Liquid Foundations

1. Apply the shaving cream to the foundation mark. It can be any kind of shaving brand. Doesn’t need to be anything named brand. Be sure to use cream rather than gel.

2. Let the foam sit for a 2 to 3 minutes.

3. Rub the shaving cream into the stain. Use your fingers or a soft, clean cloth. Really work your fingers or cloth into the stain firmly.

4. Add rubbing alcohol for those stubborn stains. If the stain is still there, then try mixing a little rubbing alcohol in with the shaving cream.

5. Rinse the stain with cold water. Very carefully wash out all the shaving cream. Be sure to use cold water only on the first rinse as hot water cans set the stain.

6. If there is foundation left repeat treatment if needed and rinse 2nd time with warm water. The warm water will help break down any foundation that has already set into the fabric.

7. Throw in the washing machine once the stain has been treated and shaving cream removed. If the item cannot be machine washed, hand wash or take to the dry cleaner.

Removing Oil Based Liquid Foundations

1. Wet the stain with cool water. Don’t soak the area, just dampen it. Using a spray bottle may be helpful.

2. Place a couple of drops of liquid dish soap on the stain. Do not use dishwasher detergent as it is much harder. Dawn is always a great brand to use.

3. Rub the detergent gently with your fingers or cloth. You can also use a soft bristled toothbrush.

4. Take a clean cloth or paper towel and blot the area clean. Make sure to press into the area. Do not rub or wipe as this can smear the stain.

5. Rinse with cool water to remove the liquid detergent. If the area is still stained blot with a towel and repeat treatment. It may take a few times to remove completely.

6. Wash the garment in your washing machine. You can pre-treat the stain with your laundry determent prior to throwing it in the wash.

Removing Powder Foundation Stains

1. Using your hairdryer blow away any access powder. Do not rub or brush away the powder. A hairdryer on a low setting is the best way to fully get rid of any powder.

2. Add a few drops of liquid soap to stain. A gently dish soap or liquid hand soap is best. Put a drop or 2 on the stain.

3. Wipe the area with a damp sponge or wash cloth. Wet a clean sponge or cloth. Make sure to wring out any access water. Gently rub the stain with the sponge to remove the powder. Rinse and repeat to get any soap out.

4. Blot with a clean dry towel. Make sure to not rub the garment.

5. Throw in the washing machine. Once spot treating, wash the garment as usual.