Doing your makeup on the train has long invited comment from anyone with an opinion, because apparently there’s no end to what a woman can be judged for.
But while we champion the queen who can deftly flick her eyeliner, swoop her bronzer and apply her lippie on the commute, because you know, we’re busy people, in this new era of coronavirus, we’ve been advised to down tools.
Dr Jenna Macciochi, an immunologist based at the University of Sussex tells HuffPost UK: “Doing your makeup on the train is definitely not a good habit right now considering how many commuters may have touched handrails, escalators or door handles as they join the train.”
Along with other recommended precautions – minimising physical contact in social situations; regularly washing your hands; and using hand sanitiser (though not of the handmade variety) – this small compromise could help reduce your risk of coming into contact with coronavirus and spreading it to others
So, when it comes to your morning routine, Dr Macciochi advises getting up a little earlier: “Nail your makeup before leaving the house if possible,” she says.
Not touching your face has been a key piece of the public health advice around Covid-19 since the early weeks of the scare. This is because it can make it easier for viruses and bacteria to enter your body, infect you and turn you into a host to further spread disease. As Sanam Hafeez, a New York psychologist in , recently told HuffPost US: “It also causes acne, so break the habit for beauty.”
This doesn’t mean you suddenly need to commit to a lengthy makeup routine. Go bare – as you may do already – or if you prefer at least some cover, here’s a quick way to streamline your look to be as faff-free as possible.
Opt for a tinted moisturiser blended on to a clean face for a touch of sheer, all-over coverage. Then wash your hands before coating your lashes with a black mascara, a dusting of blusher to perk up cheeks and a swipe of lip balm for a hydrating finish. Then wash your hands again (and yes, you know what you need to be singing).