How To Properly Clean Your Makeup Brushes

October 1, 2023

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Makeup brushes are essential tools that help us achieve flawless and professional-looking makeup applications. However, over time, these brushes can accumulate residue, bacteria, oils, and old makeup, which can compromise their effectiveness and hygiene.

Regularly washing your makeup brushes not only prolongs their lifespan but also ensures a clean and safe makeup routine. In this post, we will guide you through simple steps to wash your makeup brushes effectively with soap and water.

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Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s vital to have all the necessary supplies at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

Gentle soap or brush cleanser: Opt for mild, antibacterial soap or a brush cleanser designed specifically for makeup brushes. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage brush bristles.
Lukewarm water: Prepare a sink or a bowl filled with lukewarm water.
Clean towel or cloth: To dry and reshape the brushes after washing.
Optional: Silicone brush cleaning mat or glove: These tools can help deeply clean the bristles.

Step 2: Wetting the Brushes

Start by wetting the brush bristles under lukewarm water with the brush head pointing downwards. Take care not to wet the base of the brush, as this can loosen the glue holding the bristles.

Step 3: Cleansing the Brushes

Dispense a small amount of the chosen gentle soap or brush cleanser onto your palm or the brush cleaning mat/glove if using. Gently swirl each brush in your palm or across the cleaning mat, working the soap into a lather. Continue until the water and the lather run clear, ensuring that all product buildup is removed from the bristles.

Step 4: Rinse and Repeat

Thoroughly rinse each brush under running water, ensuring no soap or cleanser residue is left. If necessary, repeat steps 3 and 4 until the brushes are completely clean.

Step 5: Drying the Brushes

After rinsing, gently squeeze out any excess water from the brush bristles, shaping them back to their original form. Avoid pulling or tugging the bristles, as this can lead to damage. Lay the brushes flat on a clean towel or cloth, allowing them to air dry completely before using them again.

Remember, never stand brushes upright during the drying process, as water can seep into the ferrule and cause damage.

Bonus Tips:

To eliminate stubborn residue, you can use a mixture of olive oil and dish soap as an alternative brush cleanser.
Clean your brushes at least once a week if you use them frequently. For less frequently used brushes, cleaning them once every two weeks should suffice.
Avoid submerging the entire brush handle in water as this can weaken the brush over time.
Trim any frayed or damaged bristles after cleaning to maintain optimal brush performance.

Conclusion:

Properly cleaning your makeup brushes with soap and water is an imperative hygiene practice that ensures the longevity of your brushes and the quality of your makeup application.

By following the step-by-step guide above, you can achieve effectively cleansed brushes that are free from bacteria, oils, and product buildup. Remember, a little extra care in maintaining your brushes will go a long way in both the longevity of your brushes and the overall health of your skin.

About Mariam

Hi! My name is Mariam and I'm obsessed with helping you create your dream life. If you like self-improvement, leveling up, and making money moves, I hope you check out my other posts!