Makeup artist hygiene in Perth: what to clean between clients

Abby's take

What this means for the industry — and for independents

Industry impact. WA Health publishes specific guidance for cleaning makeup brushes and face sponges. Repeatable processes matter for client confidence, infection prevention and professional service quality.

For freelancers. Freelance makeup artists work across locations with different washing facilities, so the kit must contain enough clean tools to support a full appointment schedule without shortcuts.

What I'd do next

• List the tools touching each client and record which are reusable, single-use or client-owned before planning the next appointment.
• Follow WA Health's makeup brush advice: remove residue, wash with warm water and detergent, rinse in hot running water and dry thoroughly.
• Keep clean items protected and used items separate during travel; carry enough clean spare tools for consecutive appointments.

Watch-out. Check the official guidance, equipment instructions and council rules for the actual services performed. Different procedures can involve different requirements.

Start with what touches the client

List makeup brushes, sponges, palettes, applicators, shared surfaces and other items that move through the service. Identify what must be cleaned and what should be disposed of after use.

Follow the WA Health brush-cleaning sequence

WA Health guidance expressly includes makeup face brushes and face sponges. Its steps include removing product residue, washing with warm water and detergent, rinsing in hot running water and drying thoroughly.

Separate fresh and used tools

Pack clean supplies and used implements in different compartments. Avoid returning a used applicator to the clean kit and do not rely on a quick spray as a substitute for the official processing sequence.

Price the time needed for hygiene

Allow for setup, clean tools, appropriate disposables and pack-down. A booking that leaves no realistic turnaround may need more brush sets or a different timetable; the cost belongs in your business plan.

Government source and local limits

Source: WA Department of Health, Guide to cleaning and disinfecting equipment for the body art, beauty and nail industries: https://www.rph.health.wa.gov.au/sitecore/content/Corporate/Articles/F_I/Guide-to-cleaning-and-disinfecting-equipment-for-the-body-art-beauty-and-nail-industries . Check manufacturer instructions and relevant council advice.

Common questions