From the Research
Yes, trying on makeup in stores can potentially expose you to herpes virus, and to minimize this risk, it is recommended to avoid applying store testers directly to your lips, eyes, or face. Herpes simplex virus (HSV-1 and HSV-2) can survive on surfaces, including makeup testers, for hours to days 1. When multiple people use the same makeup tester, especially lipsticks, eye products, or anything that comes in direct contact with mucous membranes, transmission can occur.
Key Precautions
- Use disposable applicators provided by the store
- Test products on the back of your hand rather than your face
- Ask for sealed samples
- Request that the salesperson sanitize the item with alcohol before use Some stores now have policies requiring staff to sanitize testers between customers or provide single-use samples. This precaution is important because herpes is a lifelong viral infection that can cause recurring outbreaks of sores or blisters, and while treatments like acyclovir, valacyclovir, or famciclovir can manage symptoms, there is no cure 1. According to a recent review, acyclovir remains the gold standard in the treatment of herpes virus infections 1.