A clean and well-maintained set of makeup brushes. Not only do clean brushes help you achieve a flawless makeup application, but they also promote better skin health and hygiene. However, many people are unsure about how to properly clean their makeup brushes, leading to a buildup of bacteria, oil, and product residue that can cause breakouts, irritation, and even infection.
Importance of cleaning your makeup brushes, the tools and techniques you need to get the job done, and some helpful tips and tricks to keep your brushes in top condition. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned pro, this article will provide you with everything you need to know about how to clean makeup brushes effectively and efficiently.
Why Clean Your Makeup Brushes?
Before we various into the specifics of how to clean makeup brushes, let’s first take a closer look at why this task is so important for your skin health and makeup game.
Preventing Bacterial Growth
One of the most compelling reasons to clean your makeup brushes regularly is to prevent the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms. When you use your brushes to apply makeup, they come into contact with your skin’s natural oils, sweat, and dead skin cells, as well as any bacteria or dirt that may be present on your face. Over time, this buildup can create a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, which can lead to breakouts, irritation, and even infection.
By cleaning your brushes regularly, you can remove this buildup and keep your brushes free of harmful bacteria, promoting better skin health and hygiene.
Improving Makeup Application
Promoting better skin health, clean makeup brushes can also help you achieve a better makeup application. When your brushes are clogged with old makeup, oil, and debris, they may not pick up and distribute product as evenly or smoothly as they should. This can lead to a patchy, uneven application that looks less than stellar.
By keeping your brushes clean, you can ensure that they are performing at their best, allowing you to create a flawless, professional-looking makeup application every time.
Extending Brush Life
Finally, regular cleaning can also help to extend the life of your makeup brushes. When brushes are left dirty and clogged with product, the bristles can become damaged and misshapen over time, leading to a less effective and less comfortable application. By removing buildup and gently reshaping the bristles after each wash, you can keep your brushes in top condition for longer, saving you money and hassle in the long run.
Tools and Materials Needed
Now that we understand the importance of cleaning your makeup brushes, let’s take a look at the tools and materials you will need to get the job done.
Gentle Cleanser
The first and most important tool you will need is a gentle cleanser specifically designed for cleaning makeup brushes. Avoid using harsh soaps or shampoos, as these can strip the natural oils from the brush bristles and cause them to become dry and brittle over time.
Look for a cleanser that is pH-balanced and formulated with gentle, nourishing ingredients that will effectively remove makeup and dirt without damaging the brush fibers. You can find brush cleansers at most beauty supply stores or online retailers.
Brush Cleaning Mat
Another helpful tool for cleaning your makeup brushes is a brush cleaning mat. These mats feature a textured surface with various ridges and bumps that help to agitate the brush bristles and remove stubborn buildup. They also provide a stable surface for cleaning your brushes, preventing them from slipping or sliding around in the sink.
You can find brush cleaning mats at most beauty supply stores or online retailers, or you can even make your own using a silicone trivet or textured placemat.
Microfiber Towel
After cleaning your brushes, you will need a clean, absorbent towel to help remove excess water and reshape the bristles. A microfiber towel is an excellent choice for this task, as it is gentle on the brush fibers and highly absorbent, allowing your brushes to dry more quickly and thoroughly.
You can find microfiber towels at most home goods stores or online retailers, or you can use a clean, soft washcloth instead.
Optional: Brush Drying Rack
If you have a large collection of makeup brushes or you clean them frequently, you may want to invest in a brush drying rack. These racks are designed to hold your brushes upside down as they dry, allowing excess water to drain away from the ferrule (the metal part that holds the bristles) and preventing damage to the brush shape.
You can find brush drying racks at most beauty supply stores or online retailers, or you can DIY your own using a clean egg carton or a repurposed dish drying rack.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Makeup Brushes
Now that you have gathered your tools and materials, it’s time to get down to the nitty-gritty of how to clean makeup brushes. Follow these simple steps for a thorough, effective clean:
Step 1: Wet the Bristles
Begin by running your brush bristles under lukewarm water, being careful not to get water into the ferrule or handle of the brush. Use your fingers to gently massage the bristles, helping to loosen any caked-on makeup or debris.
Step 2: Apply Cleanser
Next, apply a small amount of your gentle brush cleanser to the bristles, working it into a lather with your fingers. You can also use your brush cleaning mat at this stage, gently swirling the brush against the textured surface to help remove stubborn buildup.
Step 3: Rinse Thoroughly
Once you have worked the cleanser into the bristles, rinse the brush thoroughly under running water until the water runs clear. Be sure to rinse from the base of the bristles to the tips, avoiding the ferrule and handle as much as possible.
Step 4: Squeeze Out Excess Water
After rinsing, gently squeeze the excess water from the brush bristles using your clean microfiber towel or washcloth. Be careful not to twist or pull on the bristles, as this can cause damage and shedding.
Step 5: Reshape and Dry
Finally, use your fingers to gently reshape the brush bristles into their original shape, then lay the brush flat on your microfiber towel or brush drying rack to air dry. Avoid using heat or direct sunlight to speed up the drying process, as this can damage the brush fibers and cause them to become brittle over time.
Helpful Tips and Tricks
In addition to the basic steps of how to clean makeup brushes, here are some helpful tips and tricks to keep in mind:
Clean Your Brushes Regularly
To keep your brushes in top condition and prevent bacterial growth, aim to clean them at least once a week if you use them daily, or after every use if you are a makeup artist or you share your brushes with others. You can also do a quick spot clean in between washes using a brush cleaning spray or wipe.
Don’t Overload Your Brushes
When applying makeup, be sure to use a light hand and avoid overloading your brushes with product. Not only does this make for a messier application, but it also makes your brushes harder to clean and more prone to buildup over time. A little product goes a long way!
Store Your Brushes Properly
When you’re not using your brushes, be sure to store them in a clean, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. You can use a brush holder or organizer to keep them upright and separated, or you can store them in a clean makeup bag or case. Avoid storing your brushes in a damp or humid environment, as this can promote bacterial growth and cause your brushes to deteriorate more quickly.
Replace Your Brushes as Needed
Even with regular cleaning and proper storage, your makeup brushes will eventually need to be replaced. Signs that it’s time for a new brush include shedding bristles, a misshapen brush head, or a lingering odor even after cleaning. As a general rule, you should replace your brushes every 1-2 years, depending on how often you use them and how well you care for them.