How do you remove a lipstick stain?

Removing lipstick from clothing, or other fabric, demands removal of three primary components: oil, pigment and wax. Eliminate stains by treating with common household products, such as hairspray, rubbing alcohol and liquid dishwashing detergent.

1. Remove lipstick stain with rubbing alcohol

   Saturate a cotton ball with standard rubbing alcohol, and firmly dab directly into the stain. Do not wipe or clean in a circular motion as this spreads the now-moist stain. Replace the cotton ball as it begins soaking up the stain. Continue until the stain has been removed.

2. Spray the stain away with hairspray

   Using a common hairspray, saturate the stain by spraying for 5 to 10 seconds. Allow the hairspray to dry fully, which may take up to 10 minutes. Soak a washcloth in warm water, and press into the stain. Try not to make a wiping motion, as this may spread the stain. If the oil and wax is removed, but the color has not budged, use an oxygen-based bleach to remove the remaining stain.

3. Wash the stain with liquid dishwashing detergent

   Lipstick with a high oil concentration is removed with standard dishwashing detergent. Pour detergent directly onto the stain until it's fully covered. Allow the detergent to rest for 5 to 10 minutes. With a lightly moistened washcloth, scrub the stain: starting from the outside and working your way toward its center. Repeat until the stain has disappeared.