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Do not freeze lipstick

DEAR HELOISE: A friend told me to put my lipsticks in the freezer for 24 hours to kill bacteria. Any advice? -- A Reader, via email

DEAR READER: Hmmm -- I've never heard of this, and really don't know what your worry is! Several major lipstick manufacturers said there was no information available about bacteria and lipstick. Also, none of them recommended putting lipstick in the freezer.

Lipstick contains water, and water can be a carrier of bacteria, so there is a remote possibility for your lipstick containing germs, but it's really a slim chance.

Most importantly, do not share your lipstick or any makeup. -- Heloise

Handy lint roller

DEAR HELOISE: I keep a lint roller in the bathroom. After showering and drying my hair, I use it on the mats and tile floor to pick up loose hair. It keeps the floor nice between cleanings. -- Colleen in Omaha, Neb.

Hints from Heloise is syndicated by King Features Syndicate. Send great hints to Heloise, P.O. Box 795000, San Antonio, TX 78279-5000; by fax, 210-HELOISE (435-6473); or by email, Heloise@Heloise.com.

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