how to clean makeup brushes today – 10 tips

This article is about how to clean makeup brushes. We have hope to offer simple step by step process of how you can clean and maintain makeup brushes. Without spending any more time, let’s just dive in.

what is a make up brush?

A makeup brush is a tool with bristles used for the application of makeup products such as foundation, eyeshadow, blush, and more. It helps distribute and blend makeup evenly for a smooth and professional finish. Makeup brushes come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, designed for specific makeup applications, from powder to liquid to cream cosmetics.

how do you clean makeup brushes

requirements for cleaning make up brushes

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary supplies:

• Mild liquid soap or brush cleaner
• Warm water
• A shallow bowl or container
• Paper towels or a clean towel
• Brush cleaning mat or glove (optional)
• Antibacterial brush spray (optional)

2. Wet the Brushes

Start by running lukewarm water over the bristles of your makeup brushes. Be careful not to get the base of the brush wet, as this can weaken the glue that holds the bristles together.

3. Apply Soap

Place a small amount of mild liquid soap or brush cleaner into a shallow bowl or the palm of your hand.

4. Clean the Bristles

Gently swirl the wet brush in the soap, working up a lather. Use a brush cleaning mat or glove for a deeper clean. Pay attention to the bristles, as this is where makeup, oils, and bacteria accumulate.

5. Rinse

Rinse the brush under running water. Continue to swirl and squeeze the bristles with your fingers until the water runs clear, indicating that the brush is clean.

6. Dry the Brushes

Gently squeeze out any excess water from the bristles. Reshape the brush if needed. Lay the brushes flat on a clean towel or paper towels to air dry. Make sure they are not standing upright, as water can seep into the ferrule (the metal part) and weaken the glue.

7. Optional: Antibacterial Brush Spray

To disinfect your brushes between washes, you can use an antibacterial brush spray. Simply spritz the spray onto the bristles and then wipe the brush on a clean tissue until no makeup residue remains.

8. Clean Regularly

It’s important to clean your makeup brushes regularly, ideally at least once a week for brushes that come into contact with liquid products and every two weeks for powder brushes. This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and product residue.

9. Store Properly

Store your clean, dry brushes in a clean and dry container or brush holder. This keeps them free from dust and prevents contamination.

10. Replace When Necessary

Keep an eye on the condition of your brushes. If the bristles start to fray or shed excessively, it’s time to replace the brush.

how to maintain make up brushes

1. Clean Regularly:

• Makeup brushes should be cleaned regularly to remove built-up makeup, oils, and bacteria. The frequency of cleaning depends on how often you use the brushes. Ideally, wash them every 1-2 weeks.

2. Use Gentle Cleansers:

• When cleaning your brushes, opt for mild liquid soap or a specialized brush cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals or strong detergents that can damage the bristles.

3. Avoid Immersing the Base:

• When cleaning, avoid submerging the entire brush, as water can weaken the glue that holds the bristles together. Focus on cleaning the bristles and keep the base dry.

4. Gently Swirl and Rinse:

• Wet the brush bristles with lukewarm water and apply a small amount of soap or brush cleaner. Gently swirl the bristles in your palm or on a brush cleaning mat to create a lather. Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.

5. Pat Dry with a Towel:

• Gently squeeze out excess water from the bristles with a clean towel. Reshape the bristles if needed. Do not rub or pull on the bristles, as this can damage them.

6. Dry Flat:

• Lay the brushes flat on a clean towel or paper towels to air dry. Avoid standing them upright, as water can seep into the ferrule (the metal part) and weaken the glue. Allow them to dry completely before using them again.

7. Use an Antibacterial Brush Spray:

• To disinfect your brushes between washes, use an antibacterial brush spray. Simply spritz the spray onto the bristles and then wipe the brush on a clean tissue until no makeup residue remains.

8. Store Properly:

• Store your clean, dry brushes in a clean and dry container or brush holder. This helps protect them from dust and contamination.

9. Keep Them Separated:

• Store different types of brushes separately to prevent cross-contamination of products and colors. You can use makeup brush holders or cups with dividers.

10. Be Gentle:

• Treat your brushes with care. Avoid harsh pulling, twisting, or squeezing that can damage the bristles. Use a delicate touch when applying makeup to prolong the life of your brushes.

11. Replace When Necessary:

• Keep an eye on the condition of your brushes. If the bristles start to fray, shed excessively, or lose their shape, it’s time to replace the brush.

faqs about how do you clean make up brushes

1. How often should I clean my makeup brushes?

Makeup brushes should ideally be cleaned every 1-2 weeks. Brushes that come into contact with liquid products should be cleaned more frequently than those used with powders.

2. What can happen if I don’t clean my makeup brushes regularly?

Failing to clean your makeup brushes regularly can lead to the buildup of makeup residue, oils, and bacteria. This can result in uneven makeup application, skin breakouts, and even skin infections.

3. Can I use regular soap to clean my makeup brushes?

You can use mild liquid soap or specialized brush cleaners to clean your makeup brushes. Avoid using harsh detergents or chemicals that can damage the bristles.

4. How do I clean makeup brushes without a brush cleaner or soap?

In a pinch, you can clean your brushes with a mixture of warm water and a few drops of baby shampoo or gentle hand soap. Swirl the brushes in the mixture and rinse thoroughly.

5. Can I use hot water to clean my brushes?

It’s best to use lukewarm water when cleaning your makeup brushes. Hot water can damage the bristles and affect the glue that holds the bristles together.

6. What’s the best way to dry my makeup brushes after cleaning them?

After cleaning, gently squeeze out excess water from the bristles with a clean towel. Reshape the bristles if needed and lay the brushes flat on a clean towel or paper towels to air dry. Avoid standing them upright, as this can damage the brushes.

7. How can I disinfect my brushes between washes?

You can use an antibacterial brush spray to disinfect your brushes between washes. Spritz the spray onto the bristles and then wipe the brush on a clean tissue until no makeup residue remains.

8. Can I clean different types of makeup brushes in the same batch?

It’s best to clean different types of brushes separately to avoid cross-contamination of makeup products and colors. You can use dividers in brush holders to keep them separated.

9. Can I use my makeup brushes while they are still damp after cleaning?

It’s not recommended to use makeup brushes while they are still damp. Wait until they are completely dry to prevent makeup from clumping and to maintain brush shape.

10. How can I tell if my makeup brushes need to be replaced?

If the bristles start to fray, shed excessively, or lose their shape, it’s time to replace the brush. Worn-out brushes can affect makeup application and may be less hygienic.