Makeup Brush Cleaning 101
You might be shocked…..
to hear that there are people out there who have never cleaned their makeup brushes.
If you didn't know that it should be a part of your makeup routine, then great! Today we are going to learn something new!
Why Wash Them?
Bacteria Build-Up
A lot of bacteria lives inside the bristles of your makeup brushes. People have reported suffering from acne and even developing cyst-like bumps on their faces as a result of not cleaning their brushes. EEW David!!! The best makeup application comes with really great skin, so make sure that your brushes are clean and not working against you.
Optimal Results
Clean brushes ensure the best results. If you dip your eyeshadow brush into black eyeshadow on Friday night and then try to use the same brush on Monday morning for a natural look with peachy-toned eyeshadow, you’re not going to get a true peachy-tone color on your lid. Clean your brushes after using dark shades so you can go back to using lighter tones again.
Sanitation
Any professional artist should use a brush cleaner on their brushes between each client. Failure to do so could cause the artist to pass bacteria from one client to another. Be sure you know who you are working with. Cheap is expensive. If you hire a cheap artist who doesn’t follow sanitation regulations, you’re going to pay twice as much after you have to see a doctor and get a prescription for pinkeye.
How to Clean Your Brushes
There are several ways to clean your brushes. Some people use water and baby soap, but I like to treat my brushes with some shampoo and conditioner. After all, these expensive tools are an investment, and in their past lives, they were little critters. (Yes, if you didn’t already know, many brushes are made of animal hair, so be good to these little pets of yours.) I feel that giving them a good shampoo and conditioning treatment once a month or every couple of months gives them a deep clean and refreshes them so they feel super soft again.
Deep Cleaning
Put a little shampoo in the palm of your hand.
Run your makeup brush under some water for a moment.
In circular motions, rub your brush in the shampoo.
Rinse with water (the water should run away from the base of the brushes).
Repeat if necessary.
Dry on a towel overnight.
Weekly Disinfection
Between deep cleanings, I like to use a disinfecting brush cleaner once a week on my own (or professionally, I use it between each client).
Recommended Product: Brush Cleaner – This cleaner disinfects your brushes and keeps them in top condition.
Spray brush cleaner onto your brush.
Using a paper towel or tissue, wipe makeup off the brush.
Repeat until the towel/tissue is white and no more makeup comes off onto the towel/tissue.
Dry for 15-20 minutes before using the brush.
Additional Tips for Brush Care
Avoid Soaking Brushes
Never soak your brushes in water as it can loosen the glue holding the bristles together and damage the brush handle.
Drying Brushes Properly
After washing, reshape the brush head and lay the brushes flat to dry with the bristles hanging off the edge of a counter. This helps them retain their shape and ensures water doesn’t seep into the handle.
Regular Inspections
Regularly inspect your brushes for signs of wear and tear. If bristles are falling out or the brush is losing its shape, it might be time to replace it.
Use Brush Guards
Brush guards can help maintain the shape of your brushes, especially after washing. They are particularly useful for keeping the bristles straight and in good condition.
Invest in Quality Brushes
Investing in high-quality brushes can make a significant difference in your makeup application. Quality brushes tend to last longer and perform better, making them worth the investment.
Recommended Products: Sonia Kashuk Professional Brush Collection and Makeup Designory Brushes. Many of the brushes in my kit are from Makeup Designory, and I've had them for over 20 years. They might be more expensive, but they are worth it in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Regularly cleaning your makeup brushes is essential for maintaining both your tools and your skin's health. Incorporate these cleaning habits into your routine to ensure a perfect makeup application every time.
For more personalized beauty advice and tips, visit my website or follow me on Instagram to see the latest looks and inspirations.
Happy cleaning, and may your brushes always be fresh and ready for your next makeup masterpiece!