How Do OTs Adapt Makeup Today? Foam, Dycem, Cuffs and Rubber Bands

When a client wants to keep doing their makeup and the packaging is the problem, occupational therapists get creative. We asked 1,147 qualified OTs what they have used.

What did we ask?

In our survey (December 2025 to July 2026) we asked OTs whether they have used or created an adaptive method for makeup application. 26% said yes. 302 OTs described what they used. We counted keywords in those open answers, so treat each figure below as a minimum.

What do OTs use?

• Mirrors, positioning or stabilising the arm (19% of answers)
• Universal cuffs (15%)
• Foam or foam tubing (14%)
• Dycem or other non-slip matting (12%)
• Tape or self-adhesive wrap (8%)
• Velcro, elastic, rubber bands or straps (6%)

About six in ten answers mentioned a handle or grip in some form, including built-up and thermoplastic handles.

Why do these workarounds fall short?

Most are borrowed from other tasks, such as holding cutlery or a pen. They help, but a workaround that fits one product does not answer what OTs told us about everyday packaging: small lids and caps (94%), unstable grip surfaces (72%) and narrow cylinder shapes (68%). And 88% of OTs said they want universal attachments that fit multiple products.

If you are improvising yourself

Start with set-up, because it costs nothing: sit down, anchor your elbow on the table and bring the mirror to you. We cover more in How to Do Your Makeup When Your Hands Don't Cooperate. An OT can match a tool to your hands, so it is worth asking yours before you build something.

A purpose-built option

Betty and Margie are soft silicone grips that slide onto the makeup you already own. Betty is a round grip that sits in your palm. Margie is a flat paddle that rests between your fingers, with no gripping or squeezing required. They fit most products 15 to 25 mm across, wash with warm soapy water, and come with a lifetime guarantee and a 30-day money-back promise. Margie is not designed for very slim products like eyeliner pencils.

ByStorm grips sit within the NDIS low-cost assistive technology range (under $1,500 per item) and may be claimable when they link to your goals. Your support coordinator or OT can help you frame it. See how it works.

Quick answers

What do OTs use to make makeup easier to hold?
In our survey, OTs described mirrors and positioning, universal cuffs, foam or foam tubing, Dycem or non-slip matting, tape or self-adhesive wrap, and Velcro, elastic or rubber bands. About six in ten answers mentioned a handle or grip.

How many OTs have adapted makeup for a client?
26% of the 1,147 qualified OTs we surveyed said they have used or created an adaptive method for makeup application.

Source: ByStorm Accessible Beauty Clinician Survey, December 2025 to July 2026. 1,706 responses, of which 1,147 are qualified occupational therapists. 302 described an adaptation; figures are keyword counts of those open answers, so each is a minimum.