Shout Advanced Gel
Thick gel formula that clings to makeup stains and dissolves oils effectively.
View on AmazonHow to Get Makeup & Foundation Out of Clothes
Makeup stains contain oils, pigments, and waxes that require specific solvents. Different products need different approaches - lipstick, foundation, and mascara each need specialized treatment.
Difficulty:
Medium
Quick Facts
Time Needed15-30 minutes
Success Rate90% when treated quickly
Key TipDon't rub - blot only!
Stain TypeOil + Dye based
Step-by-Step Removal Guide
1
Scrape Off Excess
Use a dull knife or spoon to gently scrape off any excess makeup. Don't rub - this will push the makeup deeper into the fabric fibers.
Important: Never rub makeup stains! Always blot or dab gently to avoid spreading.
2
Apply Makeup Remover or Alcohol
For lipstick and foundation: Apply rubbing alcohol or makeup remover to a clean cloth. Blot the stain from the outside in. For mascara: Use petroleum jelly to dissolve the waterproof formula.
3
Apply Dish Soap
Rub a small amount of liquid dish soap (Dawn works best) directly into the stain. Work it in gently with your fingers. Dish soap breaks down the oils in makeup products.
Note: For powder makeup stains, skip to step 4 without wetting first.
4
Use Stain Remover
Apply a pre-wash stain remover like Shout or OxiClean MaxForce. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to penetrate the oils and pigments.
5
Rinse with Warm Water
Rinse the treated area with warm water from the back of the fabric. This helps flush out the dissolved makeup rather than pushing it deeper.
6
Wash and Check
Launder in the warmest water safe for the fabric with your regular detergent. Air dry first - heat from the dryer will set any remaining stain. Repeat if necessary.
Recommended Products
Top-rated products available in the United States
Dawn Platinum Dish Soap
Cuts through makeup oils better than any other product. Essential for lipstick stains.
View on AmazonCarbona Stain Devils #8
Specifically formulated for cosmetics, ink, and crayon stains.
View on AmazonIsopropyl Rubbing Alcohol 70%
Dissolves makeup pigments and dyes. Works on all cosmetic types.
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DIY Home Remedy
Rubbing Alcohol & Glycerin Method
Effective for stubborn lipstick and liquid foundation stains:
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup rubbing alcohol (70% or higher)
- 1 tablespoon glycerin (optional)
- 1 teaspoon dish soap
- Clean white cloths
Method:
- Mix rubbing alcohol with glycerin and dish soap
- Test on hidden area first
- Apply solution to makeup stain with clean cloth
- Blot gently - don't rub
- Let sit for 10 minutes
- Blot with clean damp cloth to remove solution
- Wash normally in warm water
Why it works: Alcohol dissolves makeup pigments, glycerin loosens waxes, and dish soap emulsifies oils.
Not sure what stain it is?
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Guides by Surface
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I remove old, set-in makeup stains?
Soak the garment in warm water with OxiClean for 2-4 hours. Then apply rubbing alcohol to the stain, let sit for 15 minutes, add dish soap, and wash. You may need to repeat this process 2-3 times for very old stains.
What's the best way to remove liquid foundation from collars?
Apply liquid dish soap directly to dry fabric before wetting. Work it in thoroughly, then rinse with warm water. For stubborn stains, use rubbing alcohol before the dish soap. Consider using shirt collar protectors to prevent future stains.
Can I use hairspray to remove makeup stains?
Old hairspray formulas contained high alcohol content and worked well. Modern hairsprays are less effective and can leave sticky residue. Use rubbing alcohol directly instead for better results.
How do I remove waterproof mascara stains?
Waterproof mascara requires oil-based removers. Apply petroleum jelly, coconut oil, or makeup remover oil to the stain. Let sit for 10 minutes, then follow with dish soap to remove the oil, and wash normally.
