How to clean the makeup brushes?
Makeup brushes are the unsung heroes of every makeup kit. They help us achieve flawless looks and even skin tones. But have you ever cleaned them properly?
Dirty makeup brushes can accumulate bacteria, oils, and leftover makeup, which may lead to skin irritation, breakouts, or even infections. Keeping your brushes clean is not just a matter of hygiene—it's a responsibility to your skin's health. Regular and proper cleaning of makeup brushes not only extends their lifespan but also protects your skin by preventing bacterial buildup. Moreover, clean brushes ensure smoother application and improve the overall quality of your makeup.
How Often Should You Clean Makeup Brushes?
- Brushes used for liquid or cream products should be cleaned every 3 days.
- Powder brushes can be cleaned weekly.
- Eyeshadow brushes fall somewhere in between these frequencies.
Preparation Before Cleaning
Prepare the following items: warm water, mild detergent, a clean towel, a drying rack, and a silicone cleaning pad or glove.
For mild detergents, you can use brush cleaning solutions, olive oil, gentle dish soap, or baby shampoo. A mixture of olive oil and dish soap in a 1:1 ratio works wonders, offering both deep cleaning and conditioning for the bristles.
Step-by-Step Guide to Deep Cleaning Makeup Brushes
- Lay a clean towel next to the sink and prepare your cleaning supplies for convenience.
- Wet the bristles with water and dip them into the cleaning solution. Gently swirl the brush on a cleaning pad to remove makeup residue, avoiding wetting the glue area of the handle.
- Rinse the bristles under warm water until the water runs clear. Ensure no water touches the brush handle to prevent glue deterioration.
- Lay the cleaned brushes flat on a towel until all brushes are washed.
- Blot excess water from the bristles with a towel and cover them with brush nets.
- Place the brushes flat on a surface or hang them upside down on a drying rack to air dry.
Tips for Deep Cleaning and Maintenance
- For brushes with stubborn makeup residue, soak the bristles in the cleaning solution for a few minutes before washing.
- After cleaning, reshape the bristles and use a brush net to maintain their shape, especially for natural hair brushes, to prevent frizz.
- Spray the bristles lightly with medical-grade alcohol for disinfection, especially if the brushes are shared.
- For precious natural hair brushes, use a small amount of hair conditioner to moisturize the bristles, preventing frizz, splitting, and shedding.
Quick Cleaning Tips for Busy Days
- For brushes used with liquid, cream, or paste products, use makeup wipes for a quick clean. They can efficiently remove surface dirt, making them ideal for temporary cleaning.
- For powder brushes, blush brushes, and eyeshadow brushes, use a dry sponge or any coarse surface like packaging foam or aquarium filter sponges to quickly remove powder residue. This is especially useful when switching between different colors during makeup application.
- Spray cleaners containing alcohol can provide quick results for emergencies, though they are most effective on synthetic brushes.
Avoid Common Cleaning Mistakes
- ❌ Avoid using hot water, as it can damage the glue and lead to shedding. Warm water is sufficient.
- ❌ Don’t soak the entire brush in water or use harsh detergents, as they can weaken the glue and damage the bristles.
- ❌ Avoid using a blow dryer or drying brushes under direct sunlight, as heat can deform the bristles, especially natural hair ones. Air drying is the safest method.
More Questions
- How long does it take to clean makeup brushes?
Thorough cleaning takes about 10-15 minutes, plus drying time. - Can I use shampoo to clean brushes?
Yes, baby shampoo is particularly suitable for cleaning natural hair brushes. - What’s the best way to dry makeup brushes?
Lay them flat or hang them upside down on a drying rack. Avoid using a hair dryer or exposing them to direct sunlight. - Do I need to clean brand-new brushes before using them?
Yes, it's a good idea to clean new brushes to remove any factory residue or dust.
Clean makeup brushes not only improve makeup application but also safeguard your skin's health and extend the life of your brushes. Start cultivating the habit of regularly cleaning your brushes today!